When hairs grow within the hair follicles in the skin, tiny bumps begin to form. Also known as ingrown hairs, hair bumps can occur anywhere on your body. However, men most often develop this skin condition in the beard area, while women are more likely to suffer from ingrown hairs under the armpits or on the legs or pubic areas, according to MayoClinic.com. Although they're most closely associated with shaving, they can also develop in unshaven areas. Hair bumps can be itchy, inflamed and painful. Changes to your skin care and shaving routine can reduce hair bumps.
Step 1
Use a wet soft-bristle toothbrush or wet facial sponge in a circular motion to exfoliate the affected area gently for about three minutes before you go to bed.
Step 2
Sterilize a needle using boiling water or by scrubbing the needle with soap and wiping it with an alcohol solution.
Step 3
Insert the sterilized needle into the hair loop to lift the tip of the hair, advises MayoClinic.com.
Step 4
Let your hair grow out and avoid shaving for about three weeks. Avoid plucking or waxing also, because these techniques tend to make ingrown hairs worse, according to Dr. Harvey H. Jay, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Step 5
Apply a medication to your skin that will help your skin heal faster, advises the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, or AOCD. They recommend glycolic acid lotion 8 percent, sold under brands such as Neo-Strata, or antibiotic gels, such as Benzamycin or Cleocin-T. Retin-A cream can also help to reduce scarring.
Tips and Warnings
- Moisturize your skin daily to keep it soft and make it easier for hair to penetrate. If you must shave, try to do it every other day, or as infrequently as possible. Always prep the area to be shaved carefully to prevent hair bumps. Soak the hair with warm water for about five minutes, recommends the AOCD. Apply a pre-shave lotion, such as Hydro Glide, and then your shaving gel or foam. Use a single-blade razor, and shave in the direction of your hair growth. Go over each area only once. Do not stretch the skin or shave too closely.
- Chemical shaving products, such as Nair or Magic Shave, help to reduce hair bumps. However, they can burn or irritate your skin. Do not use them if your skin has not healed after having hair bumps. Always do a patch test first, and follow the instructions on the package closely.
Things You'll Need
- Soft-bristle toothbrush
- Skin buffing pad
- Sterilized needle
- Glycolic acid lotion
- Antibiotic gel
- Retin-A cream
- Pre-shave lotion
- Single-blade razor
