Ingrown hairs and razor bumps are a cosmetic hazard associated with traditional forms of hair removal, such as shaving. Embarrassing red bumps often defeat the purpose of putting on that cute string bikini--and are more hazardous to your self-image than they are medically threatening. The low-down on ingrown hairs and razor bumps is that treating them may mean changing your approach to removing body hair.
What Happens
An unsightly rash of razor bumps erupts when hair follicles are irritated by the slice of the razor during the course of shaving, explains consumer reviewer Paula Begoun, author of "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me." An ingrown hair is one that grows back into the skin after it's shaved, tweezed or waxed. Dermatologist Harvey H. Jay of Cornell Medical School points out that these methods of hair removal result in hairs with sharp, pointed tips, which have the propensity to grow back into the side of the follicle. Razor bumps and ingrown hairs are most likely to occur when you shave along your bikini line, where hair is coarse and curly. Mastering the art of shaving closely and carefully may help you avoid razor-induced bumps (see Resources). But when they arise, your options for getting rid of them quickly may be limited.
Topical Treatments
Unfortunately, there aren't many topical treatments for razor bumps and ingrown hairs available on the consumer market that are guaranteed to work. Begoun advises using a product that contains stabilized aspirin, which acts as an anti-inflammatory when applied to razor-damaged skin. Two consumer products recommended by Beauty Brains consumer scientists are Tend Skin and Paula's Choice Skin Relief. If you don't happen to have these products at home or can't find them, dissolve two aspirin in a quarter cup of water. Add glycerin, which can be purchased at most drugstores, until the mixture reaches a desirable consistency, then apply to the affected area.
Freeing Ingrown Hairs
Once you get an ingrown hair, you may need to release hairs that grow back into the skin. These may present in a "loop" configuration. Mayo Clinic experts advise gently washing your skin twice daily with a washcloth or a soft toothbrush employing a circular motion. To release individual hairs, use a sterile needle. Gently slip the sharp tip through the ingrown hair "loop" and lift it so that the hair is released.
What's Effective
Jay points out that patients prone to razor bumps and ingrown hairs have limited success using anti-inflammatories and special razors. Topical steroids, retinoids, antibiotics and antibacterials may also yield far from desirable results. Mayo Clinic experts advise simply permitting the hair to grow out longer--which defeats the purpose of achieving a smooth, hair-free zone. Rather than retiring your precious bikini and relegating yourself to caftans and sweatpants, consider using a different technique to get rid of body hair.
Your Best Bet
First, ditch the razor. Jay points out that cream depilatories, which chemically dissolve hair, result in outgrowing follicles with rounded tips, which are less likely to grow back inward and cause ingrown hairs. The downsides to using depilatories are that they can irritate your skin--and usually, your results last no longer than a close shave, so you'll have to use depilatories frequently. Semi-permanent and permanent forms of hair removal, such as laser hair removal and electrolysis, may ultimately be the best way to avoid razor bumps and ingrown hairs.
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