Inward growing hair or ingrown hair can be quite a nuisance. Not only does it look unsightly, but it can also be painful in some cases. It occurs when the hair follicle grows back into the skin instead of up and out.
Inward growing hair mostly affects individuals who shave, wax, or use other hair removal methods. The good news is that it can be treated and prevented with the right methods. In this article, we will explore effective methods for removing inward growing hair.
1. Exfoliation
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. It helps to prevent inward growing hair by unclogging hair follicles and allowing hair to grow normally.
You can use a body scrub or exfoliating mitt to exfoliate your skin. Gently massage the exfoliant onto your skin in a circular motion, paying special attention to the areas where you are prone to inward growing hair. Rinse off with warm water.
2. Warm compress
A warm compress can help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, making it easier to remove inward growing hair. Simply soak a clean washcloth in warm water and place it over the affected area for a few minutes.
Repeat this process a few times a day until the hair emerges from the skin.
3. Tweezers
Tweezers are an effective tool for removing inward growing hair. Make sure that your tweezers are clean and sanitary before use. Gently pull the hair out with the tweezers, ensuring that you do not break the hair off below the skin’s surface.
This can lead to further irritation and infection.
4. Sugar scrubs
Sugar scrubs are a natural and effective way to exfoliate the skin and prevent inward growing hair. Mix sugar with coconut oil and massage gently onto your skin. Rinse off with warm water.
5. Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and unclogs hair follicles. It is an effective treatment for inward growing hair. Apply salicylic acid cream onto the affected area daily.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the product packaging.
6. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. It is a natural remedy for inward growing hair.
Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply onto the affected area. Be sure to do a patch test before use to check for any allergic reactions.
7. Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent that helps to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. It is an effective treatment for inward growing hair. Apply benzoyl peroxide cream onto the affected area daily.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the product packaging.
8. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to reduce inflammation and redness. It is an effective natural remedy for inward growing hair. Cut open an aloe vera leaf and extract the gel.
Apply onto the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
9. Laser hair removal
Laser hair removal is a long-lasting solution to inward growing hair. It involves using a laser to destroy the hair follicle, preventing hair growth. This treatment is best done by a trained professional.
10. Proper hair removal techniques
Proper hair removal techniques can help to prevent inward growing hair. Use a sharp razor when shaving and shave in the direction of hair growth. Do not pull the skin taut while waxing as this can cause hair to grow back into the skin.
If you are prone to inward growing hair, consider alternative hair removal methods such as laser hair removal or depilatory cream.
Conclusion
Inward growing hair can be frustrating, but it can be treated and prevented with the right methods.
Exfoliation, warm compress, tweezers, sugar scrubs, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, benzoyl peroxide, aloe vera, laser hair removal, and proper hair removal techniques are effective solutions to inward growing hair. You should choose a method that works best for you and make it a part of your hair removal routine.