Ingrown hairs can be a major source of frustration, especially during the summer months when we all tend to shave more often. Not only are they unsightly, but they hurt and can easily become infected. Fortunately, there is hope for those who suffer from ingrown hairs: proper education on how to prevent them.
In this article, we’ll provide you with information on good habits to avoid ingrown hairs, as well as common mistakes that you may not know are the cause. With these tips and tricks, you won’t have to worry about ingrown hairs as part of your grooming routine!
Understand the reasons behind the formation of ingrown hairs.
Ingrown hairs are hairs that have curled up and grown back into the skin instead of sticking out. These ingrown hairs can be caused by a number of factors, including poor hair removal technique, genetic predisposition, or the use of products that clog the follicles. When hair is shaved or waxed, the sharp edges can cause the hair to recede and push it into the skin instead of away from it. Also, certain products like lotions or oils can clog the follicles, leading to a buildup of bacteria that leads to infection and an ingrown hair. People with curly or coarse hair are also genetically more prone to developing this type of hair.
Preventing ingrown hairs requires a combination of preventative measures.
Shave or wax properly.
When you shave, use a sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth. This will reduce irritation and prevent the hair from ingrowing. For waxing, be sure to use a high-quality wax that spreads evenly over the skin and avoids pulling the hairs. Always use clean tools and make sure your skin is clean and dry before starting any hair removal process.
Exfoliate the skin regularly using a scrub or brush.
Exfoliating your skin can be an incredibly beneficial step in preventing ingrown hairs. By doing so, you slough off dead skin cells that could potentially trap and embed hair under them. Exfoliation also helps prevent the ducts from clogging, which leads to the formation of an ingrown hair due to increased buildup of sebum or sweat. This helps to ensure that any new growth is not blocked by its own dead cells, which helps natural growth unfold smoothly. It is therefore essential to exfoliate the skin regularly to keep it healthy and free of ingrown hairs.
Moisturize your skin after shaving or waxing by applying a moisturizer.
Applying moisturizer to an area prone to ingrown hair helps create a protective barrier against those annoying, flammable hair follicles. This is due to the moisturizing properties which prevent the skin from becoming too dry and allowing the stiffened follicle of an ingrown hair to sink further into the skin. By keeping your skin supple with the regular application of a quality moisturizer, you can reduce dryness and prevent annoying ingrown hairs.
Likewise, it’s important to note that not all areas have the same hydration needs as others, so it’s best to assess what type of hydration is right for you. Staying hydrated will go a long way in reducing unwanted ingrown hairs, helping you feel confident about your skin again!
Finally, wear loose clothing whenever possible.
Wearing loose clothing can be a great way to prevent ingrown hairs. By avoiding tight clothing like jeans and dresses, you allow your skin to breathe freely while helping the hair stay out of the follicle, reducing the chances of an ingrown hair developing. Loose-fitting clothing is especially helpful if you shave, wax or tweeze areas of your body where hair is naturally curly, as it prevents hair from getting caught under the surface of the skin when it starts to push back.
Loose clothing promotes airflow around your body and, along with a good dose of exfoliation, can make all the difference in preventing ingrown hairs from forming. Avoid using heavily scented body products, such as perfumes or deodorants, in areas where you have tweezed, as these products can irritate freshly shaved or tweezed skin, increasing the risk of hair growth embodied.
Ingrown hairs: these errors should be permanently banished from your routine!
To avoid skin irritation when shaving, never use a dull razor and try to leave as much time as possible between shaves. Waxing, which is often less irritating than shaving, is also an option that can be used to allow your skin to recover properly between sessions.
If an ingrown hair appears on the surface of your skin, do not try to access it yourself; piercing the skin can lead to infection and scarring. Instead, use hydrogen peroxide or a warm compress on the area overnight, both of which can help push the subcutaneous hair out of the skin’s surface. Once you’ve done this, you should be able to remove it easily using tweezers and disinfect the area afterwards.
