To treat ingrown hairs, you can follow these steps:
- Stop Shaving, Tweezing, or Waxing : Avoid these hair removal methods until the condition improves, usually 1 to 6 months
- Gently Exfoliate the Skin : This helps remove a dead layer of skin cells and release ingrown hairs
- Use Warm Water and Small, Circular Motions to Wash the Affected Areas : This can be done with a washcloth, exfoliating brush, or exfoliating gel or scrub
- Apply Rubbing Alcohol to the Surrounding Skin : This helps prevent infection
- Carefully Remove the Ingrown Hair : You can do this by gently pulling it out with a sterile needle, pin, or tweezers
- Seek Medical Help if Needed : If at-home treatments are not effective or if the ingrown hairs become infected, it's important to consult a healthcare provider
Additionally, to prevent ingrown hairs, you can follow these tips when shaving:
- Wet your skin with warm water and use shaving gel.
- Shave in the direction the hairs are growing.
- Use as few strokes of the razor as possible.
- Rinse the razor after every stroke.
- Hold a cool, wet cloth to your skin after shaving to reduce irritation.
- Use an exfoliating scrub to help release any trapped hairs.
- Try a different hair removal method, such as hair removal cream or laser treatment
Remember not to pick at, scratch, or pop your ingrown hairs, as this can lead to infection and further irritation
