Ingrown hairs on the genitals are usually a result of close shaving of the area. Females are more likely to get ingrown hairs in the genital area than males. African Americans, Hispanics and those with tightly curled hair are also at an increased risk of developing ingrown genital hair. While treatment is sometimes necessary to remove these hairs, most will heal on their own over time.
Inspect the genital area to find the ingrown hair. You may need to use a mirror to see the entire area. The ingrown hair will appear swollen and red. It may also be a little tender to the touch.
Step 1
Soak in a warm bath for at least 20 minutes at least three times a day if possible. If this isn't possible, apply warm compresses to the area. The moist heat will loosen the follicle and soften the hair, which will allow the ingrown hair to heal.
Step 2
Look for an area of hair that looks like a loop or an arch. This is the area of the ingrown hair you can work with to try to remove the ingrown hair from the skin.
Step 3
Remove the ingrown tip of the hair after you get out of the tub using a needle that was sterilized in rubbing alcohol for at least 15 minutes. Once the ingrown tip of the hair is removed, leave the hair alone. Don't pull it out or shave it.
Step 4
Apply triple antibiotic ointment to the area where the hair was ingrown. Make sure your skin is dry before applying the ointment.
Step 5
Avoid wearing tight undergarments or pants while the ingrown hair fully heals. Additionally, wear only cotton undergarments, as other fabrics won't let the area breathe.
Tips and Warnings
- Exfoliate the genital area gently before trimming the hair to reduce the risk of developing an ingrown hair. Additionally, you should shave in the same direction as the hair grows and use a sharp single-blade razor.
- If the hair is embedded, meaning you can't see the area of hair between the natural follicle and the area where the hair is ingrown, don't try to remove the hair, as this may cause an infection. Contact your doctor if the ingrown hair becomes infected. Once it is infected, it will be extremely painful, hot to the touch and may ooze pus.
Things You'll Need
- Warm compress
- Alcohol
- Needle
- Triple antibiotic ointment
- Loose clothing
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