Ingrown hairs can occur anywhere on the body that there is hair. Shaving, tweezing, waxing, sugaring and other hair removal methods may cause ingrown hair. An ingrown hair is a hair that curves into the skin or grows through the wall of the hair follicle. Once the hair is ingrown, a bump that looks like a blister or pimple forms, and it may be itchy or painful. Treating an ingrown hair should begin as soon as you notice it.
Step 1
Wash your face every morning with an anti-acne or antibacterial soap and hot water, recommends the U.S. Navy. When you wash, use a rough washcloth and wash in circular motions to release ingrown hairs.
Step 2
Encourage the ingrown hair bumps to drain by placing a hot, wet compress on them for at least five minutes three times per day, states MedlinePlus.
Step 3
Reduce inflammation by applying 1 percent hydrocortisone cream each bumps three times per day.
Step 4
Slip a sterilized needle between the skin and the hair that loops above the skin and lift gently to remove the ingrown hair, notes MayoClinic.com.
Step 5
Rub topical antibiotic ointment onto the bump to reduce the risk of infection after you remove the ingrown hair.
Tips and Warnings
- If you suffer from severe ingrown hairs, a salicylic acid or glycolic acid based chemical peel may help the bumps to heal quickly (U.S. Navy).
Things You'll Need
- Anti-acne or antibacterial soap
- Washcloth
- Glycolic acid lotion
- 1 percent Hydrocortisone cream
- Needle
- Topical antibiotic ointment
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