When you have an ingrown hair, it means that the hair has grown back into the hair follicle after removal from shaving or tweezing. Symptoms include inflammation and irritation at the site. If you have curly hair, you are more prone to this condition. There are several at-home treatments you can use to eliminate ingrown hairs and prevent future occurrences. If the ingrown hair becomes painful or starts oozing pus, speak to your doctor about treating the area for a possible infection.
Step 1
Allow the hair to grow out. If you can stop shaving the area, it allows the hair to grow out of the follicle naturally. When you do shave again, wait for the hair to be at least 1/4-inch long. This will help prevent ingrown hairs.
Step 2
Keep the area clean. Remove any bacteria from the affected spot by applying a topical antiseptic solution after washing the area with a mild cleanser and water. Use the antiseptic on a daily basis to prevent the ingrown hairs from becoming infected.
Step 3
Massage the skin that contains the ingrown hair. Take a clean and sterile soft toothbrush and massage the area, using circular strokes. Repeat this process each evening to encourage the hair to grow out of the follicle.
Step 4
Change the way you shave. If you are prone to ingrown hair, you should take steps to eliminate future outbreaks. Shave in the shower while bathing in warm water. Run the razor over the skin in the same direction as the natural hair growth after applying a shaving solution with aloe. Moisturize the skin with a lotion after shaving.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the Mayo Clinic website, you can use a sterile needle to get under the hair in the area and push it out of the follicle. Check with your doctor before doing this technique at home. You can permanently eliminate ingrown hairs by changing your hair removal method. Options include laser hair removal and depilatory use.
Things You'll Need
- Topical antiseptic
- Soft toothbrush
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