Ingrown hairs under the armpits are a much more common occurrence in women, since they tend to shave this area. People with curly hair are also more likely to have ingrown hairs than individuals with straight hair. Ingrown hairs can cause pain and irritation to the underarm area and can lead to an infection.
Features
Ingrown hairs occur when the hair begins to grow out and then curls back and grows into the hair follicle. Symptoms of ingrown hair include redness at the site and irritated skin. Shaving can lead to ingrown hairs in the underarm area, since it irritates the area and causes friction.
Prevention
Preventing ingrown hairs in the underarm area involves making changes to the way that you shave. Prepare the underarms for shaving by moisturizing the area. Ideally, shave in the shower with warm water to soften the skin and open the pores. To keep them from appearing, you should shave downwards in the direction of the hair growth. Smooth the razor over the skin in single strokes to avoid irritating the skin.
Considerations
To keep ingrown hairs from appearing, you should consider allowing the hair underneath the arms grow a little longer before shaving. Waxing, electrolysis and laser hair removal can get rid of underarm hair without the increased incidence of ingrown hairs.
Treatment
If the ingrown hair has not become infected, your doctor may recommend simply waiting for the hair to grow out on its own. An antiseptic topical ointment may be applied to keep the area clean and free from infection while the hair grows. Pain and swelling are signs that an infection may be present. You need to take prescribed antibiotics to get rid of the infection.
Potential
Although shaving the underarm area causes ingrown hairs, the type of clothing that you wear can also lead to ingrown hairs. Avoid any tight shirts that can irritate the skin in the area.
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