Treating and Preventing Unsightly Ingrown Hairs: A Comprehensive Guide
Ingrown hairs, a common skin issue, can be a nuisance for many individuals, particularly those with curly or coarse hair, frequent shavers, or those who wear tight clothing that causes friction. These hairs, instead of growing outwards, grow sideways into the skin, often causing itching, redness, discoloration, and soreness.
The root cause of ingrown hairs is often improper hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing, or plucking. Cutting hairs too close to the skin can make them more likely to push into the skin. This is why it's essential to shave with the grain and avoid excessive pressure.
Ingrown hairs are often the result of blocked or dirty pores. To manage them, warm water and a washcloth can be used to massage and release the ingrown hair. However, it's important not to dig into the skin to uncover the hair, as this increases the chance of infection.
In some cases, ingrown hairs can get infected, leading to symptoms such as excessive swelling, redness, discoloration, pus or liquid discharge, elevated temperature, fever, nausea, or chills. If this happens, it may need to be treated with prescribed steroid creams or a course of antibiotics.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to shaving that may help prevent ingrown hairs, such as laser, chemical, or electrolysis hair removal. Exfoliating and shaving with the grain can also reduce the chance of ingrown hairs. It's recommended to exfoliate two or three times each week with a good chemical scrub.
In a 2018 study, ingrown hairs were the third most common shaving complication. While symptoms are usually just annoying and not serious, recurring ingrown hairs in the same area may indicate a need to speak with a medical professional for potential treatment options, such as destroying the follicle.
In most cases, managing ingrown hairs is a matter of adopting good skincare practices and being mindful during hair removal. If you find yourself frequently dealing with ingrown hairs, consider consulting a dermatologist for personalised advice and treatment options.
