An ingrown hair occurs when a hair strand curls back or grows sideways into the skin instead of growing outward. This condition typically appears as a small, raised bump. While ingrown hairs can develop anywhere hair grows, they are frequently found in private areas where hair is removed.
How They Develop in Private Areas
Ingrown hairs form when hair removal methods like shaving, waxing, or tweezing cause hair to re-enter the skin. In private areas, hair tends to be coarser and curlier, increasing its likelihood of growing back into the skin. When cut, hair can pierce the skin as it regrows. The body then reacts to this trapped hair as a foreign object, leading to inflammation.
Other factors also contribute to ingrown hair formation. Dead skin cells can block hair follicles, preventing new hair from emerging. Tight clothing creates friction against the skin. This friction can push growing hairs back into the skin or prevent them from breaking through the surface, worsening the issue.
Identifying Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs typically have specific visual cues and symptoms. They appear as small, raised bumps on the skin, which can be red or discolored depending on skin tone. Sometimes, a visible hair is trapped underneath the skin’s surface within the bump. These bumps may resemble pimples and can contain pus, indicating inflammation or infection.
Beyond appearance, ingrown hairs are accompanied by discomfort. Symptoms include itching, tenderness, or pain in the affected area. The skin around the ingrown hair may also feel warm or swollen. Multiple ingrown hairs can form a patch of irritated skin, sometimes called razor bumps.
Preventing Ingrown Hairs
Preventing ingrown hairs in private areas involves careful hair removal and consistent skin care. Before shaving, wet the skin and hair with warm water to soften it. Gently exfoliate the area beforehand to remove dead skin cells that might trap hair. Use a mild, hydrating shaving gel or cream for sensitive skin to reduce friction and allow the razor to glide smoothly.
When shaving, use a sharp, single-blade razor, rinsing the blade after every stroke. Shave in the direction of hair growth to minimize hair curling back into the skin. After shaving, rinse the area with warm water and apply a non-greasy, alcohol-free moisturizer that soothes the skin and prevents dryness. Limiting how often one shaves and avoiding shaving too closely also reduces irritation.
Consider alternative hair removal methods like electric shavers, which cut hair slightly above the skin, or depilatory creams, which dissolve hair. Patch testing is important for sensitive skin. Wearing loose-fitting clothing, especially after hair removal, reduces friction and allows newly growing hairs to emerge without obstruction.
Treating Ingrown Hairs
Treating existing ingrown hairs involves encouraging the hair to release from the skin and reducing inflammation. Applying warm compresses to the affected area can help open pores and soften the skin, making it easier for the hair to emerge. Gentle exfoliation around the bump can release trapped hair by removing dead skin cells. Once the hair tip becomes visible, a sterile needle or tweezers can gently lift the hair loop. Avoid digging or picking at the skin, as this can worsen irritation or lead to infection.
Discontinue hair removal in the affected area until the ingrown hair resolves to prevent further irritation. Most ingrown hairs heal on their own within one to two weeks. Seek professional medical attention if signs of infection develop, such as increased pain, significant swelling, warmth, pus, or if the bump grows larger. A healthcare provider may prescribe topical steroid creams to reduce inflammation or antibiotics if an infection is present. In some cases, a medical professional might surgically remove the hair using a sterile instrument.