Ingrown hair is a painful skin condition that occurs occur when the tip of a curly hair grows back into the skin, causing the area to become inflamed, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Although ingrown hairs are most common in the beard area, they can occur anywhere on the body. Ingrown hairs can often be successfully extracted at home. See your physician if your ingrown hair doesn't clear up with home treatment, or if it becomes painful or infected.
Step 1
Wash the ingrown hair with a soft toothbrush or a washcloth for several minutes each time your shave, or before you go to bed at night, advises MayoClinic.com. Scrubbing the area gently will help to release the ingrown hair. Alternatively, soften the area with a warm compress. Soak a cloth in hot water, then squeeze out the excess water. Repeat the warm compress several times throughout the day, until the ingrown hair is soft.
Step 2
Wash the area with soap and water, then look in a mirror and locate the ingrown hair. Sterilize a needle with rubbing alcohol, then use the tip of the needle to lift the tip of the hair from the skin. The tip of the ingrown hair can also be removed with sterile tweezers.
Step 3
Wipe the area with an antibacterial cream or an antiseptic such as rubbing alcohol. Tea tree oil also acts as an antiseptic, according to the International Aromatherapy and Herb Association.
Things You'll Need
- Toothbrush or washcloth
- Warm compress
- Needle
- Rubbing alcohol
- Tweezers (optional)
- Antibacterial cream or antiseptic
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