According to the MayoClinic.com, an ingrown hair occurs when the tip of a tweezed or shaved hair re-enters the skin. This can result in an embedded hair, irritation, pain and itching. Although it is most common for African-American males aged 14 to 25 to develop ingrown hairs, they can happen to anyone who removes hair from his face.
Take a Break
The Discovery Health website recommends putting your hair removal tool, such as a razor or tweezers, away for a couple of days. Repeatedly shaving or irritating ingrown hairs can inflame or even infect the bumps, causing hyperpigmentation and scarring. Give ingrown hairs a chance to heal on their own.
Release Them
To encourage healing, the Mayo Clinic suggests releasing the ingrown hair from beneath the skin's surface. To do this, wash the area with a toothbrush or washcloth using circular motions for a few minutes. Gently insert a sterile needle beneath the embedded loop of hair and lift it up out of the skin. If this proves too difficult, try again later. Never dig or pick out an ingrown hair. This will just damage your skin and promote infection.
Ditch the Electric Shaver
Although electric shavers are convenient, they can encourage hair to regrow in a variety of directions. This can make it difficult to shave in the direction of hair growth, a typical way to prevent ingrown hairs. Instead, use a disposable or cartridge razor that can be replaced as it becomes dull.
Try Retinoid Medication
For chronic ingrown facial hairs, the MayoClinic.com recommends asking your doctor about a prescription retinoid medication. These topical creams are designed to exfoliate the skin and discourage the thickening and hyperpigmentation that often accompanies ingrown hairs. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser about 20 minutes prior to applying a retinoid medication. Irritation can occur if you apply the cream to wet or damp skin.
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