About Ingrown Hair Treatments

Ingrown hairs are a problem caused by hair removal in any part of the body, whether through shaving, waxing or tweezing. An ingrown hair will develop when the hair does not grow straight out of the follicle and instead curls to the side. This produces inflammation and the development of a cyst or pimple-like bump. Ingrown hairs can be tender to the touch. It is best to treat the condition before it causes infection or scarring.

Pre-Treatment

Preventing ingrown hairs in the first place is the best course of treatment. Prior to hair removal, skin should be thoroughly cleaned. Use an exfoliating cleanser and a brush (or loofah) to help prepare the skin. If instruments are used (like razors or tweezers) in the hair removal process, make sure they are cleaned with an antibacterial soap or alcohol.

Immediate Care

The area where hair was removed should be cleaned again when the procedure is finished. An astringent, preferably one with alcohol, can help clean the area and keep ingrowns from appearing. If the area looks especially red or irritated, apply a topical antibiotic like Neosporin or a cream to reduce swelling like hydrocortisone.

Natural Treatments

Eucalyptus oil is helpful in curing ingrown hairs. Honey can work as a natural antibiotic, as does aloe vera. Witch hazel has been shown to be effective in treating ingrowns. Also, wearing loose, cotton clothing over areas of hair removal helps to keep the sweat and oils that promote ingrowns (by encouraging bacteria growth) from accumulating.

At the Drugstore

There are many treatments available over-the-counter for ingrown hairs, or razor bumps, as they are often called. They can usually be found next to the depilatories and waxing kits. After-hair-removal treatments are available in gels, lotions and pads. Those containing salicylic acid are often the most effective.

Considerations

Shaving causes fewer ingrown hairs than waxing, especially when done in one direction with a clean blade in a downward motion. Tweezing can cause an increase in ingrown hairs. If tweezing is done, it is best to make sure the tweezers have been cleaned with alcohol or peroxide. Electrolysis and laser hair removal produce few ingrown hairs.