We all experience ingrown hairs from time to time. Typically, ingrown hair happens when tweezed, or shaved hair/hairs grow back into the skin instead of out of it. Ingrown hairs can cause inflammation and tiny bumps around the region where the hair was removed from.
Although ingrown hair is a common condition resulting from hair removal, it doesn’t necessarily have to do with shaving or plucking. We lose tiny hairs throughout the day, so it’s possible to have these issues without intentionally removing hair first.
More often than not, an ingrown hair will work itself out on its own. Occasionally, the hair may need to be removed, and if there’s an infection, it should be treated as well.
Symptoms of An Ingrown Hair
Ingrown hairs can occur anywhere there is hair on the body. However, they are more likely to happen around the beard area of the face of men, in armpits, knees, pubic area, and legs.
- Papules: small, solid, rounded bumps
- Pustules: small, puss-filled, blister-like bumps or lesions
- Hyperpigmentation ~ skin darkening
- Itching
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Embedded hairs
When To See A Doctor
Generally, there’s no need to consult with a doctor over ingrown hairs. However, if having ingrown hair is a chronic thing, you should see your doctor.
The Cause of Ingrown Hairs
A curved hair follicle that produces tightly curled hair can encourage the hair to re-enter the skin rather than exit; once the hair has been cut and is growing back. Shaving creates sharp edges on our hair, so it isn’t difficult to re-enter when it grows back.
Having tightly curled hair is one of the main risk factors for ingrown hairs. Chronic ingrown hairs can lead to a few other health issues; bacterial infections, skin darkening, keloids, or permanent scarring.
Risk factors: Having tightly curled hair is the leading risk factor for ingrown hairs.
Preventing Ingrown Hairs
While those of us with tightly curled hair may not be able to eliminate or prevent ingrown hairs for good, we can take steps to prevent them from happening. Remember, it happens to everyone regardless of hair type, so it’s bound to happen.
Prepare or Prime The Area When Shaving
Before you shave:
- Wash your skin with mild soap.
- Rub on some lubricating shaving cream or gel.
- Shave.
When you’re done, dry the area thoroughly before putting any clothing on.
Use Single Blade Razors
A single-bladed razor is designed to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Avoid using dull old blades; they only make matters worse.
You could also limit how often you shave. Laser hair removal has become increasingly popular for men and women alike. There are also various non-razor ways to remove hair; waxing is one of them, chemical hair remover is another. Keep an eye on areas you’ve recently shaved and catch ingrown hair before it starts if you can.
