1. Getting to the Root of the Problem
The most common cause of ingrown hair is shaving too closely. While we all want baby smooth skin and a close shave, the razor can easily slice off the top of the hair follicle, so that instead of the hair growing straight up and out as it should, it grows at an angle and pokes the edge of the follicle, causing those unsightly shaving bumps. The second cause of ingrown hairs occurs when a hair grows out of the follicle as normal, but then bends back down and enters the follicle from the outside in. These kind of ingrown hairs often occur where clothing rubs the skin.
2. Too Close for Comfort
By simply changing some of your shaving habits you can help to reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs. Instead of using double or triple blade razors, stick to the single blades, and never use the blade more than twice. Additionally, use shaving cream or gel or even a mild soap to create a moist barrier between your razor and your skin to prevent nicking hair follicles.
3. Consider Your Method of Hair Removal
Waxing and plucking may seem like great methods of hair removal, as they literally pull the hair out from the root, slowing growth. But waxing and plucking is traumatic for your skin and hair follicles, yanking the hair out at a angle. Often the hairs will then grow back at the angle they were pulled out, and not in the angle of the follicle, causing the hairs to become ingrown. If you wax or pluck, wear loose fitting clothing, take saunas to open the follicles and use plenty of skin moisturizers and exfoliates in the days and weeks after hair removal.
4. Hot Compresses Help the Follicle Release the Hair
Hot compresses are the best home remedies for ingrown hairs as they soften the skin and help the hair push its way free. Simply soak a washcloth in hot water and place it over the affected area for 10 or 15 minutes, 2 or 3 times daily. Make sure that the water is as hot as you can stand without burning your skin. After a few days you should be able to see the end of the hair peeking out of the skin. Clean your tweezers and the skin with alcohol and then carefully pluck the hair.
5. When Little Hairs Become Big Problems
The hair trapped inside the follicle will continue to grow until it can break free from the skin. While you may be tempted to break the skin and pull out the hair, such actions may cause infection and/or scarring. When home remedies for ingrown hairs have not worked after a week or two and the follicle begins to become inflamed, painful or infected, it may be time to see a doctor.
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