Hair that grows into your skin can be uncomfortable and even painful, but there are ways to get rid of it safely and effectively. This type of hair, called ingrown hair, occurs when a hair curls back and grows into the skin instead of out of it.

Ingrown hair commonly happen on areas that are shaved or waxed, such as the bikini area, legs, and face.

What causes ingrown hair?

Ingrown hair is caused by hair growing abnormally, which can result in hair curling back or growing sideways into the skin instead of growing straight out. This can be caused by multiple factors including:.

Curly or coarse hair: Curly and coarse hair by nature are more prone to grow into the skin.
Tight clothing: Wearing tight clothing can cause friction on the skin which makes it more difficult for hair to grow outward and more likely to grow inward.
Shaving: When a razor cuts the hair off at an angle, it can cause the hair to grow back into the skin causing ingrown hairs.
Waxing: The hair can break below the skin level during the waxing process which makes it more likely to grow back into the skin.
Dead skin cells: Dead skin cells can accumulate and clog the hair follicles and make it more difficult for the hair to grow outward. If the hair cannot escape, it may grow inward.

Symptoms of ingrown hair

Ingrown hairs can cause a range of symptoms, including:.

Small, round bumps in the skin that may itch or become painful
Redness around the bump
Swelling around the bump
Pus-filled bumps
Darkened skin around the bump
Embedded hairs visible beneath the skin

How to get rid of ingrown hair

If ingrown hair is not bothering you, it is best to leave it alone. However, if you have an ingrown hair that has become infected, you may need to treat it. Here are some methods you can use to get rid of ingrown hair:.

Use Warm Compresses

Soak a clean cloth in warm water and wring it out so that it is not dripping wet. Place the warm compress on the area with ingrown hair for five to ten minutes, three to four times a day.

This will help to soften the skin and open up the hair follicles so that the ingrown hair can be easily removed.

Gently Exfoliate

Gently exfoliate the area with the ingrown hair using a scrub or an exfoliating brush. This can help remove dead skin cells and expose the hair so that it can be easily removed.

Do not over scrub the area, as this can lead to skin irritation and inflammation.

Use a Sterile Needle or Tweezers

If the hair is visible above the skin, sterilize a needle or tweezers by soaking it in rubbing alcohol or boiling it in hot water. Then, use the sterilized tool to gently lift the ingrown hair out of the skin.

Avoid Tight Clothing

Wearing tight clothing can cause friction on the skin and make it easier for hair to grow inward. To help prevent future ingrown hair, avoid wearing tight clothing in the areas where you commonly experience ingrown hair.

Use an Ingrown Hair Serum

Ingrown hair serums contain ingredients that help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. They can also help to release the ingrown hair from the skin. Apply the serum to the affected area according to the product instructions.

When to see a doctor

If an ingrown hair becomes infected, you may need to see a doctor. Signs of infection include:.

Increased pain
Increased swelling
Pus-filled bumps
Fever

A doctor can prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to help clear up the infection.

Preventing Ingrown Hair

The best way to prevent ingrown hair is to avoid activities that irritate your skin: shaving, waxing, and exfoliating. However, if these are necessary routines, follow these steps to help reduce the risk of ingrown hairs:.

Keep your skin moisturized: Dry skin can cause hair to grow back into the skin. Make sure your skin stays hydrated by using a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type.
Avoid shaving too closely: Shave in the direction of hair growth and avoid going over the same area multiple times as you shave.
Use shaving cream: Shaving cream can help lubricate the skin and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Avoid using products that contain alcohol or fragrance, which can dry and irritate the skin.
Exfoliate gently: Use an exfoliating brush or scrub to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. If you’re more prone to ingrown hairs, exfoliate only once a week.
Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing can irritate the skin and make it more difficult for hair to grow outward. Wear clothing that is loose-fitting when possible.

Conclusion

Ingrown hair can be uncomfortable and even painful, but there are ways to get rid of them safely and effectively. If an ingrown hair becomes infected, make sure to see a doctor.

Remember to take preventive action to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs in the future, such as keeping your skin moisturized, avoiding shaving too closely and exfoliating gently.