Ingrown hairs can be a problem for anyone who shaves. Shaving can shear the hair to a length that causes it to curl under the skin. Once in this position, it can pierce the skin and produce a red bump. Almost anyone can develop ingrown hairs, but they're far more prevalent in men than women.
Ingrown Hairs
The Mayo Clinic characterizes ingrown hairs as hairs that grow into the skin. When a hair is cut close to the skin, it can bend over and breach the epidermis, the surface layer of the skin. As the hair grows, it embeds itself into the skin, triggering an inflammatory response from the immune system.
Symptoms
The inflammatory response of the body often causes a papule or pustule to form. Papules are raised red bumps that develop around the area of penetration. Pustules are basically papules that fill with pus. Ingrown hairs can also cause discoloration, pain and an itching sensation on the skin, notes the Mayo Clinic. While almost anyone can develop an ingrown hair, it's most commonly seen in men, especially those with curlier hair. They affect the neck, jaw and cheeks and are typically referred to as razor bumps. In women, they can develop on any area of the body where hair has been removed, but they're normally seen along the bikini line, thighs and underarms.
Razors
Ingrown hairs are frequently a result of shaving. The American Academy of Dermatology says that shaving with a razor blade creates a sharp tip on the end of the hair, which can more easily penetrate the skin and cause ingrown hairs. Multi-bladed razors are the most significant culprits, asserts the Mayo Clinic, because they tend to give a much tighter shave than single-bladed razors. However, it's also possible to develop ingrown hairs from repeated waxing or plucking.
Treatment
Treatment usually relies on prescription medications. Health care providers prescribe retinoids, glycolic acids and corticosteroid in topical creams. Your doctor may also recommend a course of antibiotics. The creams reduce inflammation of the papules and pustules as well as slough dead skin that may clog any affected follicles. The antibiotics help to prevent and treat infections.
Prevention/Solution
The easiest way to control ingrown hairs is to take preventive measures. Most of these measures involve basic skin care techniques. Moistening and lubricating the skin and beard with water and shaving gel can reduce the chance of ingrown hairs. Shaving in the direction of the hair growth can prevent razor bumps as well, advises the Mayo Clinic. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology also suggests you restrict razor strokes to one pass per area of skin. Changing hair removal systems may also eliminate ingrown hairs.
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