Ingrown hair

A common condition where a hair grows back into the skin

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Ingrown hair

An ingrown hair occurs when a hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin, often resulting in inflammation, pain, and irritation. This condition is common in areas where the skin is shaved or waxed, such as the face, legs, and pubic region.

An example of an ingrown hair on the skin.

Causes

Ingrown hairs are typically caused by hair removal techniques that cut the hair at an angle, such as shaving, waxing, or plucking. When the hair grows back, it may curl and penetrate the skin, leading to an ingrown hair. Other contributing factors include:

• Curly hair: People with naturally curly hair are more prone to ingrown hairs because the hair tends to curl back into the skin.
• Dead skin cells: A buildup of dead skin cells can clog hair follicles, forcing the hair to grow sideways.
• Tight clothing: Wearing tight clothing can press the hair against the skin, increasing the likelihood of ingrown hairs.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown hair include:

• Red, raised bumps on the skin, often resembling pimples
• Itching and discomfort in the affected area
• Pus-filled blisters
• Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation)

Prevention

To prevent ingrown hairs, consider the following tips:

• Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.
• Use a sharp, clean razor and shave in the direction of hair growth.
• Avoid pulling the skin taut while shaving.
• Consider alternative hair removal methods, such as laser hair removal or depilatory creams.

Treatment

Treatment for ingrown hairs often involves:

• Gently exfoliating the skin to free the trapped hair.
• Applying warm compresses to reduce inflammation and soften the skin.
• Using topical treatments, such as retinoids or corticosteroids, to reduce swelling and irritation.
• In severe cases, a healthcare provider may need to remove the hair with a sterile needle or prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present.

Complications

If left untreated, ingrown hairs can lead to:

• Folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicle
• Scarring or keloids
• Hyperpigmentation

Related pages

• Folliculitis
• Pseudofolliculitis barbae
• Hair removal