Signs & Symptoms of an Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs can be a persistent problem for many men and women alike. From men who frequently suffer ingrown hair and inflamed skin to women who experience the occasional bump or patch of bumps, ingrown hairs can appear every time a person shaves unwanted hair. At best the problem can be an eye sore, at worst; it can cause persistent bacteria buildup and inflammation that makes shaving difficult, if not impossible.

Identification

1.    According to Healthy-Skincare.com, "the most common symptom of ingrown hairs is inflammation of the skin in localized small bumps. Within the center of the bump, a barely visible curled hair is present. Accompanying the swelling is redness, mild pain, and itchiness. Ingrown hair can also lead to the formation of puss in the affected areas." As with any skin condition, symptoms will vary and treatment options must be tested to determine the best remedy for prevention or faster healing.

Areas Afflicted With Ingrown Hair

2.    Ingrown hairs are largely the result of irritation from shaving. Thus, men frequently experience ingrown hairs on the face and neck, while women frequently experience ingrown hairs on the legs, underarms and bikini area. While ingrown hairs are a common skin care issue, treatments options are available, including techniques for proper treatment of the skin prior to shaving.

Shaving

3.    The process of shaving is conducive to ingrown hairs because it agitates the skin and hair follicles, allowing newly cut hair to grow back into the skin. If the hair strand obtains a sharpened edge, which generally occurs during shaving, it can curl under itself and become lodged in the skin. Hair that is just below the surface of the skin, at the time of shaving, may also become trapped under the skin. When hair is trapped or curls under the skin, the pressure, and in some cases, bacteria, that is trapped with it begins to irritate the surrounding area. The result is a bump that may or may not contain puss.

Removal Process

4.    Ingrown hairs can be removed by using a sterile pair of tweezers and an antiseptic wipe to clean the area. Under a bright light, use the tweezers to bring the hair to the surface of the skin. Do not remove the hair. Clean the area once more and let dry.

Prevention/Solution

5.    To prevent future ingrown hair, there are a few options. First, the skin should always be prepped before shaving. In most cases, using a warm cloth to cover the skin for several minutes will open the pores and soften the hair follicles, making shaving less abrasive to the hair and skin. Second, prep the skin by allowing a shaving cream or oil to remain on the face for several minutes. After three to five minutes, shave with a new razor, moving in the direction the hair is growing. Or, use a depilatory cream to remove hair and stop shaving all together.