Ingrown hairs are a common nuisance, but how do you remove them without aggravating your skin? Better yet, how do you prevent them entirely? This guide covers everything you need to know about ingrown hairs, their treatment, and prevention - just in time for summer.
What Is an Ingrown Hair?
Whether you're prone to ingrown hairs or have never experienced one, understanding what they are is crucial for effective treatment. An ingrown hair occurs when the hair grows back into the skin, often resulting from hair removal methods like shaving, tweezing, or waxing. While avoiding hair removal can prevent ingrown hairs, it's not an option if you want smooth, hairless skin.
Ingrown hairs can appear on the face, neck, scalp, armpits, pubic area, and legs. Signs include:
- Small, solid, rounded bumps
- Pus-filled, blister-like lesions
- Embedded hair loops
- Hyperpigmentation or skin darkening
- Pain or itching
Razor Bump vs. Ingrown Hair
An ingrown hair grows back into the skin, while a razor bump occurs when shaved hair grows back on itself into the skin surface. Both can be treated similarly.
What Causes Ingrown Hairs?
Anyone can get ingrown hairs, but they're more common in people with coarse or curly hair. Hair removal is the primary cause, but dead skin build-up can also prevent hair from breaking through the surface.
Common Causes:
- Shaving: Multi-blade razors can trap hair under the skin, causing ingrown hairs. Shaving against hair growth and using dull blades can also contribute.
- Waxing: Pulling hair from the root can disrupt the hair follicle lining, leading to ingrown hairs. Similar issues occur with epilating.
- Clothing: Tight clothes and synthetic fabrics can cause friction, pushing hair back into follicles.
How to Treat Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs often resolve on their own, but if you want to speed up the process:
- Stop touching it! Picking can cause infection.
- Use a sterile pin or tweezers to gently lift the hair without piercing the skin.
- Apply a warm flannel to open pores and gently rub in a circular motion.
- Use an exfoliating tonic and mild antiseptic to prevent infection.
If you can't remove the hair, leave it alone to avoid further damage.
How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs
Preventing future ingrown hairs is key. Here are the best ways:
- Shave Correctly: Use a single-blade safety razor to cut at the skin's surface. Shave in the direction of hair growth with appropriate products.
- Exfoliate Regularly: Remove dead skin cells to prevent clogged follicles. Use a body scrub 2-3 times a week or daily dry brushing.
- Keep Skin Hydrated: Moisturise daily to prevent dry skin and dead cell build-up. Choose between lotions for sheer moisture or body oils for deep nourishment.
- Use a Dedicated Skin Treatment: Our Daily Treatment Oil calms redness, prevents infected follicles, and hydrates skin. For deep ingrown hairs, our Exfoliating Tonic and Intensive Care Oil unclog follicles and reduce inflammation.
Meet Folli Oil
Folli Oil is a natural, cruelty-free, vegan skincare range that truly works. Using the finest, ethically sourced, sustainable plant-based ingredients, our products are handcrafted in small batches at our studio in the beautiful Cotswolds. We test on willing humans, not animals, and our packaging is recyclable. Experience the Folli Oil difference and shop now.