An ingrown hair is defined as a hair that has grown irregularly after removal and has grown back into the skin. This is a common thing that occurs for men and women who shave or wax their hair. There are many causes for this and thankfully there are ways to prevent such a nuisance. While it is not a serious ailment or condition, it is possible for it to become infected, if not treated properly. The most permanent ways to prevent ingrown hairs from ever occurring is to not remove the hair at all. It can be difficult for many people, both for men and women, to resist the urge and routine of removing hair from their body. The following are 8 things to know about ingrown hair cessation of shaving.
1: Shaving the Right Way
It is easy to mistakenly shave the incorrect way and that way is to go the same direction the hair is growing. Should you shave away from that direction, or go against the grain, you will be more likely to have ingrown hairs. Ensure that you have shaving cream and also make sure that you have plenty of water on the part you are shaving so it is a smooth shave. A way to make this process easier is to make sure not only that your razor is efficient but also not too weak. Your skin type will react differently to different razors and shaving creams, so consult with your physician if you have sensitive skin about what product to purchase.
2: Moisturize Your Skin
There are many moisturizers, especially exfoliation techniques, that will help smooth and restore your skin. Whether you have an ingrown hair or are trying to prevent them, this is a relaxing technique that many people use and swear by. While you might be able to get away with doing this in the bathtub, it is recommended to use a sponge or scrubber in the shower. Scrub away the dead skin cells and reopen the pores so your body can rejuvenate and strengthen. An excellent exfoliation is made by Ameliorate and according to the NHS ‘an ingrown hair can occur when the hair follicle becomes clogged with dead skin cells’ which makes this method even more effective and efficient.
3: Wear Proper Clothing
This might seem like it is common sense but it can be easy to overlook something as mundane as clothing choices. It should be noted, however, that just because your clothes fit baggy, doesn’t mean that is safe. It is important to have clothing that fits your body properly to ensure the utmost protection against bacteria and possibilities of infection. Wearing too tight of clothing is also unsafe because it doesn’t allow proper circulation. This goes for both men and women, because who wants to feel sweat pool inside their bottoms. Not only is that uncomfortable but it is also unhygienic and doesn’t smell very nice.
4: Does the Ingrown Hair Still Return?
There are many reasons why ingrown hairs are an occurrence and a nuisance and it doesn’t always have to do with properly shaving or not waxing so frequently. It actually tends to be more common with people who have curly hair. This condition, if exacerbated by trying to remove it yourself or scratching at it, is called pseudofolliculitis barbae. Consult your physician immediately if the ingrown hairs continue to come back after you’ve practiced the remedies mentioned. Should you not seek medical assistance, as experts at the Mayo Clinic state, an untreated ingrown hair can lead to the following:
Bacterial infection-this is from scratching.
Skin darkening-this is due to irregular blood flow and infection.
Permanent scarring, also known as keloids.
Pseudofollicullitis barbae, also known as razor bumps.
6: Consider Alternate Hair Removals
While the technique is expensive, many people consider the venture worth the price. Naturally, not shaving at all is the most certain way to prevent ingrown hair from occurring. Those who do not want to forgo hair removal and doesn’t like to shave should consider laser hair removal.
7. Oils & Household Products
There are a few over-the-counter (OTC) remedies that people use that are effective and quick, such as: a benzoyl peroxide cream or salicyclic or glycolic acid. Home remedies and natural oils are something that people are beginning to prefer over medication methods. A simple way that you can help treat your skin after having an ingrown hair is to apply a warm compress. The heat from this will be a relief for your body. You can gently remove the hair, forcibly doing so will result in scarring, by using tweezers. Keep in mind, also, that the best way to do this is to do so gently and slowly. Do not break through the skin! The following are things you can use around the house, pick up at the store or from the farmer’s market:
Tea tree oil: it kills bacteria and helps reduce swelling
Sugar: it naturally exfoliates
Baking soda: like sugar, it helps exfoliate and reduces inflammation in the skin.
8. Using the Oils & Household Products
Tea tree oil is used for many things, including treating acne, and can also be used to treat your ingrown har(s). The best way to use this effectively is to mix it with oil or water to dilute it. Using it by itself will not be as effective and will not get you the desired results. Apply your diluted solution to the area and dab with a cotton ball.
Sugar should also be mixed with water or oil until it has a paste like substance. Apply to the area with a cotton ball and move in a gentle, circular motion. This will help moisturize the skin and kill any bacteria.
Baking soda may be a peculiar item to use but this product also helps bring down inflammation in the skin. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water and apply it to your skin. Rinse off this solution with cold water until it is completely removed.
Let’s Recap
The ways to prevent ingrown hair from being an annoyance in your life are endless. Those who have curly hair may have a higher risk, but you too have a way to help reduce the chances. The easiest way is to refrain from removing the hair. If you’d like to shave or wax, though, ensure you are doing so correctly. Remember to use things like tree oil or exfoliators to help keep the skin smooth and healthy. Wear clothes that actually fit you as this will help circulation and reduce the risk of bacteria growth. Remember, if you do not want to spend thousands on laser hair removal, use the correct shaving techniques and moisturize!