How to Eliminate Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs commonly occur when the hair is shaved down to the surface and instead of growing out curls back into the skin. This condition usually causes soreness and bumps to form, which can become infected if left untreated. The key to eliminating ingrown hairs is a combination of proper shaving techniques and skin care products to loosen the hair from the skin. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Clean your face daily. Not only does daily face washing keep your face clear of bacteria that can make its way into your skin, but exfoliating can soften the hair, which allows for an easier shave. Look for face washes and exfoliators that use salicylic acid, as it gently removes dead skin cells and treats skin disorders.
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Switch shaving tools. Although 3- and 5-blade razors give you a closer shave, they can also cut the hair so close to the skin's surface that it increases the likelihood of ingrown hairs. Use an electric razor that trims your hair rather than shaving it. This allows the hair to remain sticking out of the skin and grow out rather than curl back.
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Lift the hair with tweezers. After washing your skin to soften the hair, lift the hair from the skin but do not pluck it. Instead, shave the hair to prevent a new ingrown hair from forming. Plucking the hair from the skin can also cause irritation and redness.
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Use ingrown hair cream. Ingrown hair cream contains shea butter along with salicilin to unclog your trapped hair from the skin. Although most creams should be used at night, always follow the package's instructions carefully to avoid misuse. Contact your dermatologist if you are unsure about the safety of the product.
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Practice ingrown hair prevention. If using a 3- or 5-blade razor, always prepare your face by wetting it with warm water and applying a pre-shave oil or cold pressed olive oil to your face to soften the hair.
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Visit your dermatologist. Your ingrown hair may be caused by an infection, which requires antibiotics to clear it up. Your doctor can also prescribe topical cream to relieve redness and bumps.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not scratch, squeeze or attempt to pop the ingrown hair, as you can cause an infection.
