If you shave or use another form of hair removal, the chances are high that you've experienced at least one ingrown hair at some point in your life. Ingrown hairs can be uncomfortable, irritating and unsightly skin problems for both men and women. Although anyone can develop an ingrown hair, they most commonly occur to people with curly hair, according to MayoClinic.com.
Features
Ingrown hairs develop when the hair that you have removed begins growing back into your skin. Instead of growing straight up, however, the hair curls in on itself, remaining just under the surface of your skin. Ingrown hairs can cause irritation or redness and can develop into papules, which are small, hard bumps, or pustules, which are bumps filled with pus, according to MayoClinic.com. In some cases, you may even experience skin pigmentation or darkening of your skin, itching or pain.
Causes
The most common cause of ingrown hairs is shaving, although other hair-removal methods such as tweezing can also be a possible cause. People who have curly hair are more susceptible to developing ingrown hairs, because of the natural curvature of the hair follicle, according to MayoClinic.com.
Prevention
Some people are more prone to developing ingrown hairs. If this is the case for you, you may want to consider an alternative hair removal option, such as waxing or laser hair removal. According to authors Lucy Beale and Angela Jensen in their book, "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Better Skin," using proper shaving techniques can also help to reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs. Prior to shaving, apply warm, moist heat to the area, by using a warm washcloth or soaking your skin in warm water. This helps to soften the hair and makes it easier to shave. You can also try shaving with the grain -- that is, in the direction your hair grows, to lessen ingrown hairs, according to Beale and Jensen.
Complications
At times, ingrown hairs can become infected or inflamed. In this case, you may need to consult your doctor or dermatologist. According to MayoClinic.com, your doctor can prescribe several medications that can help to prevent infection and decrease inflammation, including topical lotions containing retinoids, corticosteroids or antibiotics.
Home Treatment
In most cases, you can treat ingrown hairs through the use of certain home remedies and techniques. According to Beale and Jensen, applying an over-the-counter moisturizer containing salicylic acid and gently exfoliating your skin with a loofah or soft brush can help to loosen and reduce the appearance of ingrown hairs. If necessary, you can also remove the hair by inserting a sterile needle below the loop of hair just under your skin and lifting the hair to the surface, according to MayoClinic.com.
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