Ingrown hairs occur when hair that has been removed by shaving, tweezing or waxing grows back and fails to break through the surface of the skin. As the hair continues to grow, it remains trapped underneath the skin, causing painful bumps or potentially infection. Ingrown hairs are common on the bikini line because the hair there is coarse and curly. According to MotherNature.com, the friction caused by wearing tight clothing in this area can also obstruct the hair follicle. If you have bumps caused by ingrown hairs, use care in treating them to prevent infection or scarring.
Step 1
Wash the affected area gently twice a day with an antibacterial soap. For gentle exfoliation, MayoClinic.com recommends using a washcloth or soft-bristled brush, but do not scrub the area too harshly.
Step 2
Apply a warm, damp compress to the area to soften the skin and help draw out the hair.
Step 3
Use a sterilized needle or tweezers to gently pluck out the hair if it is close to the surface of the skin. If you can't see the hair, don't try to dig it out, as this could cause an infection. Continue applying the warm compress until the hair is visible.
Step 4
Apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation and speed healing.
Tips and Warnings
- To prevent ingrown hairs, always shave in the direction of hair growth. Use a shaving gel to soften the hair, rather than a cream, which can clog pores, reports "Marie Claire" magazine. If you are particularly prone to ingrown hairs, avoid waxing, which can cause hair to grown in at an angle, according to MotherNature.com. Avoid double-edged razors, which shave more closely and increase the risk of ingrown hairs.
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