How to Cure or Prevent Ingrown Hairs From Epilating
Epilation is a popular method of hair removal that is executed by removing body hair from the root. This process involves a few different methods of hair removal: waxing, plucking or the more permanent electrolysis and laser treatments. All forms of epilation can cause ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs occur when a re-grown hair curls back under the skin, causing painful red bumps. Fortunately, there are ways to treat and prevent ingrown hairs after epilating. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Body scrub or glycolic body wash
- Mild astringent
- Cotton ball
- Hypoallergenic lotion
- Salicylic acid
Instructions
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1
Wash the areas to be epilated in a warm shower with body scrub or glycolic body wash. This will exfoliate the skin, sloughing off dead skin cells that can potentially clog pores and block hair follicles. Also, the warm water will soften the hair and open the pores, preparing the skin for epilation.
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2
Avoid epilating the same areas repeatedly. This can cause skin redness and irritation. Instead, pluck any leftover stray hairs.
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3
Moisten a cotton ball with a mild astringent such as witch hazel or hydrogen peroxide. Rub the cotton ball lightly over the epilated area.
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4
Apply hypoallergenic lotion to the epilated area. Hypoallergenic or noncomedogenic lotions are free of fragrance and dyes. Avoid heavy, greasy creams that can clog pores.
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5
Smooth a solution containing salicylic acid over the area. Salicylic acid is found in many acne treatments, as well as in products such as SurgiCare Bare n' Clear or Bikini Zone medicated gel.
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Tips & Warnings
If you experience recurring, painful ingrown hairs after following Steps 1 through 5, see a dermatologist.
Do not try to remove an ingrown hair with a needle or pin; this can cause further irritation.
