Ingrown Hair Wound Treatment
A hair becomes ingrown when it curls back towards the skin and pushes back into the skin. Ingrown hairs are typically a harmless nuisance. However, if the area becomes infected, treatment may be advised.
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Effects
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An ingrown hair causes the affected area to become tender, red and swollen. The area may become pus-filled.
Significance
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According to the Mayo Clinic, ingrown hairs are a common problem and often occur as the result of shaving too close or from friction caused by tight clothing. The University of Virginia Health System explains that ingrown hairs are most common in the beard area and are more common in those people with curly hair.
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Considerations
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The Mayo Clinic asserts that ingrown hairs often grow out on their own and do not require any special treatment.
Treatments
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If an ingrown hair persists for several days or if ingrown hairs reoccur regularly, treatment may be needed. Consult a dermatologist to determine the appropriate course of treatment. Treatments may involve using an antiseptic medication on the affected area, applying antibiotic creams if infection is present or permanently removing hairs via lasers.
Prevention/Solution
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According to the Mayo Clinic, ingrown hairs can be prevented by shaving in the direction the hair grows, using shaving creams and by not shaving quite as close as usual. Also, using a moisturizer when shaving may help as well.
Warning
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In some cases, folliculitis may occur along with ingrown hairs. Folliculitis, which is an infection of the hair follicles, may require stronger antibiotic or anti-fungal treatments.
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