Ingrown hairs, also known as folliculitis or razor burn, are caused by shaving. According to MayoClinic.com, ingrown hairs occur most frequently in African-American males age 14 to 25. Ingrown hairs typically resolve on their own and can be managed with at-home natural treatments. Consult a physician before trying any natural remedy.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis occurs when your hair curls and grows back into the skin. When the hair becomes trapped under the skin, the follicle becomes irritated and inflamed, forming small red bumps or pimples to form. The bumps may become itchy or painful or burn; sometimes they become infected and fill with pus.
Causes
Ingrown hairs are caused by shaving, plucking or waxing. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, these are not caused by infectious organisms, but a secondary bacterial infection may occur. Ingrown hairs commonly form on the beard area in men and the lower legs in women.
Risk Factors
Ingrown hairs are more common in people with curly hair, and therefore occur more often in the Latino and African-American populations.
At Home Treatment
To free the trapped hair, you can exfoliate by gently scrubbing the area with a soft toothbrush or washcloth for a few minutes. If this does not work, you can use a needle that has been sterilized to lift the hair up out of the skin. The University of Michigan Health System recommends washing the affected area with an antibacterial soap. If the ingrown hairs are in your beard area, use a shampoo with propylene glycol or selenium. To promote healing of the bumps and relieve itching, apply a moist, warm cloth to the affected area three to six times a day for five to 10 minutes. You may use a Burrow's solution to moisten the cloth, or a white vinegar solution. Burrow's solution can be found at your local grocery or drug store. To make a white vinegar solution, mix 1 1/3 cups of water with one tbsp. of white vinegar.
When to See Your Doctor
The University of Michigan Health System recommends seeing your doctor if you experience recurrent ingrown hairs or signs or symptoms of an infection such as fever, swelling, pain or redness.
Warning
The bumps may leave dark spots or scars on your skin after they have healed. Scratching the bumps can lead to a secondary bacterial infection.
Prevention
The best way to prevent ingrown hairs from forming is to avoid shaving, plucking or waxing. The New Zealand Dermatologic Society recommends that you do not shave for 30 days to allow the ingrown hairs to resolve. Use a razor with a single blade instead of a double blade. Single blades cut the hair longer so your hair is less likely to curl back into your skin. When you shave, go in the same direction that the hair grows to minimize irritation. Or, instead of shaving, use an electric razor or a lotion that removes hair. Laser hair removal may be another good option for chronic cases. Exfoliating your skin regularly will also help prevent ingrown hairs. Try applying glycolic acid to the beard area once a day or using a facial scrub once a week.
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