Ingrown hairs, also referred to as pseudofolliculitis barbae, occur when hairs curl back and continue to grow into the skin. The associated hair follicle may appear red, itch and have a small raised bump. Occasionally, yellow drainage or pus may be present depending on the severity of the infection. Ingrown hairs commonly occur after shaving or tweezing hair. MayoClinic.com reports ingrown hairs are most common in black men between the ages of 14 and 25. Not removing hair is one option; however, this may not always be an option.
Antibiotics
Both topical and oral antibiotics may be prescribed to fight bacterial infections present due to persistent scratching. A common topical medication is mupirocin, and a common oral medication is dicloxacillin. Antibiotics should be consumed exactly as prescribed for the full length of the prescription. Though symptoms of inflammation and swelling may decrease once antibiotics are administered, it is important a person continue antibiotics until therapy is complete.
Releasing Hair
The ingrown hair may be released by exfoliating skin with a washcloth and soap. The washcloth rubbed in a circular motion encourages hair to protrude out of the skin. A sterile needle can also lift the embedded hair out of the skin, advises MayoClinic.com. Rubbing alcohol wiped onto the needle tip aids in sterilization. Releasing the ingrown hair should not include excess prodding and puncturing of the skin. If the ingrown hair is not close to the surface, releasing the hair is not possible without further infecting the skin and causing possible scarring.
Hot Compresses
Hot compresses may relieve itching and inflammation associated with the infected hair follicle. The heat also increases drainage of the blocked hair follicle, reports MedlinePlus. Gauze or washcloths soaked in warm water may give temporary relief. Towels and washcloths should be laundered in hot water after each use to avoid the spread of infection.
Cleansing and Itch Relief
The infected hair follicle should be washed twice a day with antibacterial soap to encourage healing, advises MayoClinic.com. After washing, the skin should be patted dry, and not rubbed, to avoid irritation. Oatmeal lotion or hydrocortisone creams may also decrease itching associated with infected ingrown hairs.
Prevention
The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library reports the best way to decrease ingrown hairs is by not shaving. If that is not an option, a person may choose to use depilatory creams and lotions that chemically remove hair. Still, this method increases skin irritation. More permanent solutions involve electrolysis and laser hair removal, if infected ingrown hairs become a recurring issue. People who must shave should always shave in the direction of hair growth, not against it. Sharp razors and using single strokes to remove hair will decrease the occurrence of ingrown hairs.
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