An ingrown hair occurs when a hair strand curls back or grows sideways into the skin instead of outward. This common condition appears as a discolored bump, often with pain or itching. Ingrown hairs can appear anywhere hair grows, but are common in areas subjected to hair removal, such as the face, neck, legs, armpits, and bikini line.
Do Ingrown Hairs Resolve On Their Own?
Many ingrown hairs resolve naturally without specific treatment. Most will eventually free themselves from the skin as they grow, leading to the resolution of the bump and irritation. This natural healing process typically occurs within one to two weeks, though severe cases might take longer. During this period, the hair follicle gradually pushes the trapped hair to the surface.
The timeline for resolution depends on the ingrown hair’s location and severity. Thicker-skinned areas, like the bikini or beard, may heal slower than thinner-skinned regions. While most cases are minor, complications such as infection, darkened skin, or scarring can develop if the ingrown hair does not resolve.
Encouraging Resolution at Home
Several home care practices can help an ingrown hair resolve more quickly and prevent complications. Applying a warm, moist compress to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes, three or four times a day, can soften the skin and open pores. This warmth may encourage the hair to emerge and alleviate discomfort by promoting drainage if pus is present.
Gentle exfoliation is also beneficial, as it helps remove dead skin cells that might be trapping the hair. Use a soft washcloth or a mild exfoliating scrub in small, circular motions to tease the hair out. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can worsen irritation.
Do not pick, squeeze, or attempt to dig out the ingrown hair, as this can introduce bacteria, increase inflammation, and lead to infection or scarring. Maintain good hygiene by gently cleansing the area with mild soap and warm water to prevent infection.
When to See a Doctor
While many ingrown hairs resolve independently, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if the ingrown hair becomes very painful, hot, or significantly swollen. Signs of infection include pus, increasing redness, warm skin, or spreading discoloration. If the bump grows larger, becomes a painful cyst, or if you develop a fever, chills, or feel generally unwell, medical evaluation is necessary.
Treatment options can include a small incision with a sterile needle or scalpel to release the trapped hair. Doctors might also prescribe topical steroid creams to reduce inflammation, retinoids to help remove dead skin cells, or antibiotics (topical or oral) to treat an infection. Persistent or frequently recurring ingrown hairs also warrant a visit to a healthcare provider.
Avoiding Future Ingrown Hairs
Preventing ingrown hairs involves adjusting hair removal techniques and maintaining proper skin care. Before shaving, wet the skin and hair thoroughly with warm water and apply a shaving gel or cream to reduce friction. Use a sharp, single-blade razor, as dull or multi-blade razors can cut hair too closely and contribute to hairs curling back into the skin. Shave in the direction of hair growth, not against it, and rinse the razor blade frequently after each stroke.
Regular exfoliation, two to three times a week, helps remove dead skin cells that can clog hair follicles and trap growing hairs. Moisturizing the skin after hair removal keeps it hydrated and soft, which aids in preventing hairs from growing inward.
If ingrown hairs are a persistent issue, consider alternative hair removal methods such as depilatory creams, laser hair removal, or electrolysis, which may reduce their formation.