Ingrown Hair

Also known as razor bumps or pseudofolliculitis barbae, ingrown hair is a common, unsightly condition which occurs when a cut hair grows back into the skin. When the hair grows back, instead of growing straight out of the skin, it can curl back on itself & embed into the skin. This results in pain & localised inflammation. Individuals with curly hair, especially African Americans, are more susceptible to ingrown hairs. Common areas affected include the neck & bikini area although ingrown hairs can occur on any part of the body.

The most common cause of ingrown hair is shaving although other hair removal methods such as waxing, electrolysis & tweezing can also cause ingrown hairs. Other factors include dry skin & a build up of dead skin in the hair follicle.

Ingrown hair symptoms:

• Small, itchy, red bumps which may or may not be painful.

• Embedded hairs.

• The area may become infected, leading to  pustules (pus filled pimples).

Preventing ingrown hairs:

• Use an exfoliant or loofah on the area prior to shaving to remove dead skin.

• Soften the hairs first with warm water, apply shaving cream or a moisturising shaving gel and wait 2 minutes.

• Always use a sharp razor blade and shave in the direction of the hair growth, not against. Do not apply too much pressure when shaving. Rinse the blade after each stroke.

• Change your razor blade regularly.

• After shaving, pat the area dry & apply Vitamin E cream or aloe vera gel to the area. Do not use after shave on freshly shaved skin.

• If ingrown hair is a regular problem, permanent hair removal may be recommended.

Ingrown hair treatment:

• If you do develop ingrown hairs, gently pull the hair from under the skin with tweezers. Do not remove the hair.

• Apply a warm compress to the area.

• Severe cases may require treatment from a dermatologist or doctor who may prescribe antibiotics or corticosteroids.

• See your local chemist, there are products available to treat ingrown hairs.

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.