Why ingrown hair

If you're not sure it's ingrown hair, find out more about other common skin conditions. If you want to shave, or remove hair in another way, there are things you can do to prevent ingrown hairs and help them get better quicker.

Page last reviewed: 07 August Next review due: 07 August But there are some things you can do to increase your chances of keeping it at bay:. So keep the area clean and dry and avoid shaving there until it clears up. If, however, you have ingrown hair that recurs frequently, creates hyperpigmentation particularly on the face , or feels like a deeper or worsening sore, consult with a skincare professional for treatment options.

Having problems with inflamed, ingrown hair? Should you try to pull them out or do your best to ignore them? An expert answers your questions. Learn more about vaccine availability. Advertising Policy. When a hair grows to about 10 millimeters in length, it will usually release itself from the follicle. Once any part of the hair appears above the skin line, a sterile needle or tweezers can be used to pull the hair straight.

Only do this once the hair is above the skin. Digging into the skin to pull the hair out can cause an infection.

It is also important not to pluck the hair out, as this increases the chance that the hair will be ingrown again as it grows back. The inflamed area surrounding the hair needs time to heal completely before removing the hair again. Use gentle soaps to clean areas around the ingrown hair and prevent infection.

Using natural exfoliates around the hair can also help remove dead skin cells. Exfoliating also helps clear the inflamed and irritated skin around the hair.

Sometimes ingrown hairs are irritating to deal with or become a regular problem. When this happens, some people stop removing hair in the problem area altogether. Individuals who get ingrown hairs on their necks from shaving may switch to trimming instead.

Problematic pubic hairs can be cut short instead of removed entirely to help prevent ingrown hairs. There are also a few products and treatments available to prevent these ingrown hairs. However, if the problem is persistent, people should see their doctor for other preventive measures.

These methods can include intense pulse light therapy or prescription creams to reduce hair growth. Such preventive measure can help decrease the risk of deeper infections and scarring.

Using creams with salicylic acid can help open the pores and follicles, preventing them from clogging. Some people regularly use homemade exfoliators to reduce ingrown hairs. Certain ingredients can be scrubbed into the skin to reduce dead skin cells. These products include:. Properly preparing for hair removal can also help prevent ingrown hairs.

Before shaving, wash the area thoroughly with a gentle soap. Use a moisturizing shaving cream or gel to reduce friction. When shaving, use a fresh razor that will make precise cuts. Dull blades leave jagged cuts that may increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Avoiding a close shave can also be helpful. You should also see a healthcare professional if you suspect an infection. Signs of infection include:. Razor bumps and ingrown hair cysts can take several days or even weeks to fully clear up on their own.

Timely treatment can help get rid of them and prevent them from returning. If ingrown hairs continue to form, see a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying causes. They may also recommend more permanent hair removal methods , such as laser hair removal , to help reduce your risk for ingrown hairs and bumps.

The only way you can prevent ingrown hairs from occurring at all is to refrain from hair removal altogether. The best way to reduce the incidence of ingrown hairs is to stop tweezing, plucking, and waxing the hairs until the ingrown hair has made its way out by itself or with the help of a professional.

If you do decide to remove the hair yourself, practice smart hair removal to reduce your chance of ingrown hairs. Pseudofolliculitis barbae, or razor bumps, can be irritating and may lead to complications if not treated.

Here's what you can do. Blind pimples refer to acne that develops beneath your skin's surface. They can be hard to get rid of…. Learn to identify, treat, and prevent ingrown hairs and related infections. Sick of ingrown hairs? Stop picking at your skin and try these products instead.