An ingrown hair is one that erupts from the hair follicle, then re-enters the skin. Usually only curly hairs become ingrown. According to the Ohio State University Medical Center, most ingrown hairs occur in the beard. When the hair becomes ingrown, it causes inflammation and a small pus-filled cyst. The area often becomes red and tender. While most ingrown hairs resolve on their own, there are steps you can take to prevent these painful areas, and to encourage them to clear up quickly if they do occur.
Step 1
Wash your skin with a washcloth or loofah to exfoliate and loosen the ends of your hair. Apply shaving lotion or moisturizer to soften the hair.
Step 2
Avoid shaving very closely. If you are prone to ingrown hairs, shaving hair right down to the skin gives the hair a chance to curl as it grows out, making penetration back into the skin likely. Leave the hair a little bit longer to help avoid ingrown hairs.
Step 3
Shave in the direction that your hair grows. By not going against the grain, you will lessen the chance that the hair will bend back and become ingrown. Shave legs in a downward direction.
Step 4
Avoid picking at or scratching ingrown hairs if they do occur. Ingrown hairs that become infected can lead to folliculitis, which is inflammation and infection of the hair follicles.
Step 5
See a dermatologist if ingrown hairs persist, occur often or appear infected. Symptoms of folliculitis include pain, blisters that crust over, itchiness and a bump that does not go away. Your dermatologist may prescribe a cream and antibiotics if necessary. In some cases, the hairs will need to be removed permanently by electrolysis.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider using an electric or single-blade razor for shaving, as double-blade razors can cause ingrown hairs by sharpening the end of the hair too much.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth or loofah
- Moisturizing or shaving lotion
- Prescribed medication (optional)
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