Deep ingrown hairs are hairs that have grown through the wall of the hair follicle. These are sometimes referred to as embedded hairs. When you treat an embedded hair, you must try to control the inflammation in the area while the hair grows out until it breaks through the skin. During this time, don't pick at the ingrown hair because picking could lead to infection and scarring.
Step 1
Apply 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to the area, according to the Merck Manual. You can do this two to three times daily, according to the package directions. Hydrocortisone cream will help reduce inflammation, which will make it possible to remove the ingrown end of the hair.
Step 2
Place a hot compress onto the ingrown hair three times per day, recommends the website Epigee. Leave it on for 15 minutes each time. If the compress cools during the 15 minutes, dip it in the hot water and reapply for the remaining time.
Step 3
Wash the area around the ingrown hair with an anti-acne or anti-bacterial soap each morning, recommends the Department of the Navy. Use a rough washcloth and move in circular motions to try to tease the hair out of the skin.
Step 4
Inspect the ingrown hair bump daily to see whether you can see the hair above the surface of the skin. Once the hair is noticeable above the skin, MayoClinic.com recommends using an alcohol-sterilized needle to lift the hair up by slipping the needle under the hair loop and pulling up gently. You can also use the end of tweezers or a toothpick to do this.
Step 5
Treat the ingrown hair area for infection after you remove the ingrown hair tip. Bacitracin and triple antibiotic ointment are over-the-counter topical antibiotics available. You can also contact your doctor for a stronger antibiotic, if needed.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't shave for three to four weeks while the ingrown hair heals, warns the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. You should also refrain from using chemical hair removal products during this time because of the risk of inflammation and irritation. If you get ingrown hairs often or if they don't respond to self-treatment, contact your doctor for prescription options.
Things You'll Need
- 1 percent hydrocortisone
- Hot compress
- Anti-acne or antibacterial soap
- Washcloth
- Needle
- Tweezers
- Toothpick
- Topical antibiotic
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