Ingrown hairs can crop up anywhere you remove hair, especially if the hair in question is curly. Instead of growing straight, your hair twists and forces its way back into your skin, creating an inflamed bump that looks and feels a lot like a pimple. The best treatment for ingrown hairs and razor bumps depends on where the irritation is located and how uncomfortable it makes you.
Types
There are several different types of treatments for ingrown hairs. Some treatments are preventive, designed to prevent ingrown hairs from occurring in the first place. Other treatments help fight infection and reduce pain where ingrown hairs have caused razor bumps. A third type of treatment removes hair from the problem area completely, using long-term removal methods.
Identification
Preventive treatments help reduce risk of ingrown hairs by preparing the skin in frequently shaved areas of the body. Exfoliation, with scrubs or soap, is one of the most common preventive treatments. Always using a fresh razor for shaving and shaving in the direction your hairs grow are also preventive measures. To combat the discomfort of existing ingrown hairs, look for acne washes or gels that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, two ingredients that reduce inflammation. For persistent razor bumps, ask your dermatologist about a topical or oral antibiotic to take away inflammation and reduce pain. For areas where ingrown hairs are an ongoing issue, treatments like electrolysis or depilatories can remove the hair completely. Keep in mind that these treatments may have to be repeated if hair grows back.
Considerations
If your ingrown hairs occur in a sensitive area, such as your bikini area, or a hard-to-reach area, such as your backside, it may be worth seeking professional help to treat them, especially if they're causing you discomfort and you suspect the bumps may be infected.
Expert Insight
Although ingrown hairs can be uncomfortable, they'll usually grow out by themselves, according to the Mayo Clinic's dermatologist Lawrence E. Gibson. As long as the ingrown hair isn't infected, you may just want to wait for it to grow out. When you're shaving, reduce your risk of getting razor burn by always following with a moisturizer.
Warning
Don't pick or pluck ingrown hairs yourself, even though you may be tempted to do so. Picking at an ingrown hair can cause infection or scarring. Also be aware that the symptoms of genital herpes can mimic the appearance of razor bumps, so if you have persistent problems with ingrown hairs in your pubic area and you're sexually active, make an appointment with your doctor to be on the safe side.
Member Comments