Ingrown hair removal can lead to inflammation of the skin and scarring when not done properly. When you're dealing with this problem, you'll need a little patience to ensure it doesn't get infected and that it doesn't turn into an ugly scar.
Ingrown hairs are most common in the bikini area, but they can also affect the skin on your legs. Find out the best tips on ingrown hair removal that will help you solve the problem.
How to Remove an Ingrown Hair
After you noticed the hair trapped underneath the skin, you should start applying warm compresses on the affected area. Soak a washcloth in warm water and keep it for 15 minutes on the affected area to soften the skin.
Scrubbing gently up to twice a day is another good method of helping your skin. Try a homemade gentle scrub that doesn't irritate your skin. It helps with removing ingrown hair by eliminating any dead skin cells that may clog the opening and by removing bacteria that may cause inflammation.
You can also use a steroid cream, like a 1% hydrocortison one, two or maximum three times every day until the inflammation is reduced. When you're dealing with deep ingrown hair removal, acne products can help too, as long as they either contain aspirin (salicylic acid) or benzoyl peroxide.
When there's no risk of inflammation but the hair still hasn't come out, you can use a sterile needle to gently get the tip of the hair above the skin. Use clean tweezers to pull it out and follow the procedure with a good antiseptic.
How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs
Exfoliation is key when you want to prevent ingrown hairs. Prepare your skin with gentle exfoliation 24 hours before shaving and you'll decrease the chances of ingrown hairs.
The blade can also contribute to this problem. Most razors feature multiple blades, and the hairs can recede into the skin easier than with a traditional single blade razor.
Ingrown Hair Removal Products
When ingrown hairs are a big problem, your dermatologist can prescribe different creams that help the healing process. Topical treatments with retinoids and corticosteroids are commonly used, but in cases of an infection, antibiotics may also be necessary.
Other products, like the Nisim Kalo Ingrown Hair Treatment, are specifically formulated to reduce ingrown hairs, while also fighting razor bumps and giving the shaved area proper exfoliation.
See also:
Bikini Line Hair Removal Techniques and Products
Best at Home Leg Waxing Products
Photos: Thinkstock