To manage and treat ingrown hairs effectively, follow these steps:
Home Care and Treatment
- Stop hair removal temporarily: Avoid shaving, waxing, or tweezing the affected area until the ingrown hairs improve, which can take 1 to 6 months. If necessary, trim hair with scissors or electric clippers without shaving too close
- Exfoliate gently: Use warm (not hot) water and exfoliate the skin with a washcloth, soft brush, or exfoliating scrub in small, circular motions to remove dead skin cells and help release trapped hairs
- Apply warm compresses: A warm, damp cloth or compress softens the skin and encourages the ingrown hair to surface
- Release visible hairs carefully: If the hair is visible and looped under the skin, use a sterile needle, pin, or tweezers to gently lift and free the hair. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol before and after to prevent infection
- Soothe the skin: After treatment, apply a cool, wet cloth and use soothing aftershave products or creams to reduce irritation. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help with itching and inflammation but should be used for no more than four weeks
When to See a Healthcare Provider
- If the ingrown hair becomes infected (pus, severe redness, pain), a doctor may prescribe antibiotic creams or oral antibiotics
- For persistent or severe cases, treatments like retinoid creams (to exfoliate and reduce discoloration), glycolic acid lotions (to reduce hair curvature), or prescription creams to slow hair growth may be recommended
- Laser-assisted hair removal or electrolysis can provide longer-term solutions by removing hair at a deeper level and reducing regrowth, though they carry risks like blistering or skin discoloration
- In some cases, a healthcare provider may perform a minor procedure using a sterile scalpel to remove the ingrown hair and drain any pus
Prevention Tips
- Shave with a sharp, single-blade razor using shaving cream or gel, and shave in the direction of hair growth without pulling the skin
- Avoid close shaves; consider using electric clippers set to leave some stubble
- Regularly exfoliate the skin 2-3 times a week to prevent dead skin buildup
- Keep skin moisturized and replace razor blades frequently to reduce irritation
- Consider chemical depilatories as an alternative to shaving if shaving worsens the condition
By following these guidelines, most ingrown hairs resolve within one to two weeks, and proper care can minimize discomfort, infection, and scarring
