Ingrown hairs are a common skin problem, especially for those with tight curly hair. Ingrown hairs develop after using common hair removal methods, such as shaving. Ingrown hairs curl back and reenter the skin, causing uncomfortable skin irritations, such as itching and inflammation. When facing an ingrown hair, there are several ways you can treat and prevent the problem at home without medical intervention.
Hot Towel
One way to help relieve ingrown hairs is to place a hot towel over the affected area. The heat of the towel will cause the body to dilate the affected hair follicles in order to sweat and keep your body's temperature regulated. The warm moisture on the affected area also helps to soften the hair, which may prevent future ingrown hairs from forming
Washcloth or Toothbrush
According to the Mayo Clinic, gently using a washcloth or soft-bristled toothbrush in circular motions on the ingrown hair affected area may also help release ingrown hairs from the follicles. The roughness of the washcloth or toothbrush grabs onto the hair and gently pulls it out of the skin.
Sterile Needle
A sterile needle can also be used to remove the ingrown hair from the skin. To do this, the needle must be carefully inserted into the loop that has been created between where the hair leaves the skin and where it re-enters the skin. The needle is then gently pulled away from the skin, hooking the hair. As you pull, the hair should exit the skin. Even though the needle is sterile, be careful not to poke yourself.
Let Hair Grow
One of the best ways to treat ingrown hairs at home is to just let the hair grow out. As the hair strand grows, it will naturally release from the follicle. Since ingrown hairs are created by methods of hair removal, such as shaving or tweezing, stopping these methods can help prevent future ingrown hairs from forming.
Shaving Habits
If you have no choice but to remove the hair in the affected area, change your shaving habits to ones that prevent ingrown hairs from forming, or use other hair removal methods. When shaving, always use a lubricating shaving product, shave with the grain of the hair and opt for single blades that leave the hair slightly longer than multiple blade razors do. Changing to an electric razor or investing in more permanent solutions such as laser hair removal or electrolysis can also help prevent future ingrown hairs from forming.
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