Ingrown leg hair is caused when hair curves back into the skin as it grows after it is shaved. Ingrown leg hairs can cause localized bumps that may contain pus, pain and itching. The symptoms are the result of the body trying to remove the hair by treating it as a foreign object. While ingrown leg hairs may heal on their own, there are treatments available that may help speed the healing process and calm discomfort associated with the condition.
Compresses
Applying warm, wet compresses to the ingrown hair will help to speed healing. It may also help to minimize the pain associated with the ingrown hair. Instead of applying a compress, you can soak your leg in the bathtub if desired. Ideally, you should do this at least three times per day.
Hydrocortisone
Ingrown leg hairs will usually itch. Mother Nature recommends applying hydrocortisone cream to the ingrown hair to minimize irritation and soothe itching. Because exact direction will vary from one product to another, follow the product directions for application.
Loose Clothing
Epigee recommends wearing loose clothing over the ingrown hair while it heals. Tight clothing can cause sweat and bacteria to remain on the area, which can introduce infection and cause the area to become more irritated. If the ingrown hair is in an area prone to friction, such as the inner thighs, you can apply a loose bandage to the area.
Remove the Ingrown Hair
If you can see a loop of hair that is above the skin, you can use an alcohol sterilized needle to remove the ingrown end of the hair. Slide the needle between the hair loop and the skin and lift up gently until the ingrown end of the hair is out of the skin. If the hair loop isn't above the skin, don't try to dig it, out as this may cause scarring and/or infection.
Antibiotics
You should apply an over the counter antibiotic to minimize the risk of infection after removing the ingrown end of the hair. If the area gets infected, there is a risk of the infection spreading, or causing scarring or hyperpigmentation.
Prescription Medications
If you get chronic ingrown hairs or severe ingrown hairs, you may need to visit your doctor for prescription treatment. Antibiotics to help prevent or cure an infection may be prescribed. Retinoids can be prescribed to help minimize the risk of skin darkening and skin thickening and to exfoliate dead skin cells. Topical corticosteroids may be ordered to help minimize inflammation. Women may get prescriptions that can slow hair growth.
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