They are among the types of skin damage that can easily become a serious problem: Ingrown hairs not only look unattractive, but also manifest with uncomfortable symptoms. Men and women are affected equally, and a certain hair type is particularly susceptible.
Hair removal is the most common cause of ingrown hairs. After shaving, epilation, or waxing, it can happen that the regrowing hair does not grow straight outwards along the direction of growth as usual, but instead grows under the skin. Even if dry, dead skin cells and sebum deposits clog the growth channel, the hair cannot penetrate outwards and forces its way sideways under the skin.
People with curly hair or a thick, strong hair structure are particularly affected by ingrown hairs. It is more prone than straight, fine hair to curl back and grow into the skin after reaching the surface.
Tight-fitting clothing that rubs and chafes against the skin can further increase the risk of ingrown hairs.
The organism perceives the ingrown hair as a foreign body. As a typical defensive reaction, an inflammation of the skin develops, which manifests as a small red swelling, usually filled with pus. Depending on the location, the pimple or small abscess can be very painful, especially if skin or clothing irritates the affected area.
Ingrown hairs can basically occur anywhere you shave, epilate, or wax. These body regions are particularly susceptible:
As a result of daily facial shaving, men also frequently complain about ingrown hairs on the cheeks and chin.
If an ingrown hair is visually bothersome, you can try to release it from under the skin—if it is located on the legs or the chin area. However, you should proceed with extreme care. To open the pores, place a terry cloth soaked in warm water on the corresponding part of the body for a few minutes. If the hair becomes visible and comes to the surface, you can carefully guide it in the correct direction of growth using sterile tweezers.
Under no circumstances should you scratch the affected area or squeeze an existing pus nodule. This can cause bacteria to spread and, in the worst case, even trigger folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicle.
Redness, swelling, or small foci of pus after shaving? The herbal ilon Classic has proven its worth: its effectiveness in treating folliculitis was confirmed in a dermatological study. It acts specifically against the causative bacteria, reduces inflammation, and significantly decreases the number of lesions.
Compared to iodine, ilon Classic impresses with its pleasant application – almost colorless on the skin and with a subtle fragrance.
Source: Görne R. C. / Günnewich N. / Huber H. / Wallmen B. / Zimmermann C. (2023): Turpentine Ointment for the Treatment of Folliculitis, Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, DOI: 10.1159/000535711
Stop shaving or epilating? While that may be the most effective avoidance strategy, those who do not want to forgo smooth skin can follow these care tips before and after hair removal:
After shaving and epilation, the hair has a sharper edge and therefore grows into the skin more easily instead of, as usual, straight out along the direction of growth. In principle, however, individual hairs can become ingrown with any method of hair removal.
No, this is generally not necessary. However, if a larger abscess forms or the skin inflammation spreads, it is advisable to see a doctor immediately to avoid serious health consequences.
This varies from case to case and depends on the location and treatment of the inflammation. To avoid hindering a rapid healing process, the affected skin area should not be unnecessarily irritated by scratching or pressure.
The skin in the bikini area is particularly soft and sensitive. At the same time, the hair in this region is quite coarse and slightly curly, which further promotes the ingrowth of individual hairs. For prevention, it is recommended to perform hair removal in the shower. This softens the skin and hair, making them easier to remove. If you use a razor, ensure the blades are sharp. Worn blades can injure the skin and pull out hair instead of cutting it. Stretch the skin taut and always work in the direction of hair growth. After shaving, a mild balm, such as skinicer Repair Balm, can simultaneously nourish and protect the irritated skin.nnIf hairs have already ingrown and the skin has become inflamed, please absolutely avoid mechanical irritation, for example, by squeezing pus-filled nodules or wearing tight briefs and trousers. For the treatment of a purulent skin inflammation, ilon Classic is available. Thanks to its antibacterial and circulation-promoting herbal ingredients, this traditional medicine can efficiently combat swelling and pus foci in a skin-friendly manner. Until the inflammation has healed, further shaving in the bikini area should be avoided.
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