Ingrown hairs can develop in any area of the body where hair grows, including the scalp. These occur when a hair strand, instead of growing outward from the skin, curls back and re-enters the skin. This can happen after hair removal methods like shaving, tweezing, or waxing. The body may then react to this re-entered hair as a foreign object, leading to an inflammatory response.
What an Ingrown Hair on Your Head Looks Like
An ingrown hair on the scalp often appears as a small, raised bump that may resemble a pimple. These bumps can be red on lighter skin tones, while on darker skin, they might appear as a different color from the surrounding skin, sometimes darker. A visible hair might be trapped underneath the surface of the skin within the bump. The affected area can feel itchy, tender, or painful. In some cases, these bumps may contain pus, indicating a potential infection. Clusters of these bumps can also form, a condition sometimes referred to as razor bumps.
Common Causes of Scalp Ingrown Hairs
Shaving is a primary cause, particularly when the hair is cut very close to the skin. When a hair is shaved, it develops a sharp edge, which can then curl back and pierce the skin as it regrows. Shaving against the grain, using dull razors, or dry shaving can increase this risk. Hair type also plays a role, with coarse or curly hair being more prone to becoming ingrown. The natural curl of these hair types makes it easier for the growing hair to curve back into the skin. Friction from tight-fitting headwear like hats or helmets can irritate the hair follicles and push growing hairs back into the skin, contributing to ingrown hair development.
Treating Ingrown Hairs on Your Head
Many ingrown hairs on the scalp resolve without specific intervention over a few days. Applying warm compresses to the affected area three to four times daily can soften the skin and encourage the hair to emerge. Gentle exfoliation with a moist washcloth or a scalp scrub can help remove dead skin cells that might be trapping the hair. Products containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid are often used for their exfoliating properties, helping to clear pores and release trapped hairs.
It is important to avoid picking, scratching, or squeezing the ingrown hair, as this can introduce bacteria, worsen inflammation, and potentially lead to infection, scarring, or even hair loss. If a visible hair loop is present, a sterilized needle or tweezers can be used gently to lift the hair tip without digging into the skin. For persistent or infected ingrown hairs, characterized by increased pain, pus, or swelling, seeking medical attention is advisable. A healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics for infection, or steroid creams to reduce inflammation.
Steps to Prevent Ingrown Hairs on Your Head
When shaving, it is beneficial to prepare the skin by wetting it with warm water and applying a lubricating shaving cream or gel. Shaving in the direction of hair growth, rather than against it, can reduce the likelihood of hairs curling back into the skin. Using a sharp, single-blade razor and rinsing the blade frequently can also help prevent irritation and a too-close shave.
Regular exfoliation of the scalp can prevent dead skin cells from accumulating and blocking hair follicles. After shaving, moisturizing the scalp helps maintain skin hydration and reduces irritation. Avoiding tight headwear that causes friction can also be beneficial. For individuals who frequently experience ingrown hairs, considering alternative hair removal methods, such as electric shavers that do not shave as closely, or allowing the hair to grow longer, can be effective preventive measures.