Ingrown hairs can be a bothersome and sometimes painful problem for many people. Not only are they uncomfortable, but they can also lead to unsightly scars if not treated properly.
Have you ever had those annoying little bumps on your skin after shaving or waxing? You know, the ones that itch and sometimes hurt? Well, those are probably ingrown hairs, and they’re a real pain in the… skin!
Let me guess – you’ve tried to squeeze them out, right? Don’t worry, we have all been there. But here’s the thing: messing with those ingrown hairs can actually make things worse. You might end up with marks or scars that stick around way longer than the hair itself.
The best defense against persistent marks is to prevent ingrown hairs altogether. However, if you’re already dealing with ingrown hairs or their aftermath, there are several treatment options available.
What Are Ingrown Hairs?
An ingrown hair occurs when a hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin instead of rising up from the follicle.
This often happens after shaving, waxing, or tweezing, as these hair removal methods can cause hair ends to become blunted, making it more difficult for them to break through the skin’s surface.
Ingrown hairs typically appear as painful, irritated bumps that are tempting to pick at. However, doing so increases the risk of infection and scarring. They’re more common in areas that are frequently shaved, waxed, or tweezed, such as the face, neck, armpits, legs, and pubic region.
Key points about ingrown hairs:
- They’re most common in areas that are frequently shaved or waxed
- People with curly or coarse hair are more prone to ingrown hairs
- They can lead to infection if not treated properly
- Picking at ingrown hairs increases the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation
Sometimes, ingrown hair scars mimic pimples or appear as elevated, red bumps that don’t heal quickly. People with darker skin tones are more likely to experience ingrown hairs due to their typically thicker and curlier hair.
People with thicker, curlier hair, often those with darker skin tones, are more prone to ingrown hairs. However, anyone who removes body hair can experience this issue.
How to Identify Ingrown Hair Scars
Scars from ingrown hairs often resemble raised, red, or dark brown bumps. In some cases, they may look like persistent pimples that don’t heal.
Less commonly, keloid scarring can occur, which involves the continuous growth of scar tissue, forming smooth, elevated nodules.
The Dangers of Picking at Ingrown Hairs
It’s tempting to try to “dig out” an ingrown hair, but this can lead to several problems:
- Increased risk of infection: Introducing bacteria into the area can cause or worsen infections
- Scarring: Picking can damage the skin, leading to permanent scars
- Hyperpigmentation: Especially in people with darker skin tones, picking can lead to dark spots that may take months to fade
How to Treat Ingrown Hairs at Home
If you’re dealing with ingrown hairs, try these home remedies before seeking professional help:
1. Apply a Warm Compress
A warm, damp compress can help open pores and encourage the hair to naturally emerge from the skin. Here’s how to do it:
- Soak a clean washcloth in warm water
- Apply the compress to the affected area for 10–15 minutes
- Repeat this process 3–4 times daily until the ingrown hair resolves
2. Gentle Exfoliation
Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells that may be trapping the hair. Use chemical exfoliants rather than physical scrubs to avoid irritation. Good options include:
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid
- Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) such as salicylic acid
Apply these products carefully to the affected area, following the instructions on the packaging.
3. Keep the Area Moisturized
Preventing scabs from forming over ingrown hairs can help them resolve more quickly. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
4. Use Antimicrobial Lotions
If you suspect the ingrown hair is infected (look for redness, swelling, or pus), applying an over-the-counter antimicrobial lotion can help. Always do a patch test first to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
5. Try onion extract gel
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances can be found in onion extract. Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of onion extract gels in reducing scars, particularly keloid scars.
Some over-the-counter scar remedies also contain onion extract gel as a component.
According to a paper published in 2021, it isn’t any more effective than acids or retinoids, but when used in conjunction with silicone sheets, it might be the best scar treatment available.
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- Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- May be effective in reducing scars, especially when combined with silicone sheets.
6. Apply Retinoid Creams
Retinoids, which include the well-known anti-aging substance retinol, are compounds made from vitamin A. However, retinoids’ anti-wrinkle properties also aid scars. Retinoids promote skin cell turnover and can help to diminish the appearance of scars.
These creams are quite simple to acquire over-the-counter, but your dermatologist may be able to prescribe one for you or offer suggestions.
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- Promote skin cell turnover and can help diminish the appearance of scars.
- Available over-the-counter or by prescription.
Professional Treatments for Ingrown Hair Scars
When home remedies fail to improve ingrown hair scars, seeking professional medical help, such as from a dermatologist, may yield better results.
If home remedies aren’t effective, consider these professional treatments:
1. Topical Treatments and Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can remove scar tissue and the outermost layers of skin, providing deeper exfoliation and potentially longer-lasting benefits with consistent application.
Topical treatments containing hydroquinone, kojic acid, or azelaic acid can help with hyperpigmentation caused by ingrown hairs.
2. Laser Hair Removal
For those prone to ingrown hairs, laser hair removal can be beneficial. This method reduces hair growth, potentially decreasing skin irritation that leads to ingrown hairs.
It may also help lessen the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation while stimulating collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity and moisture.
Changes in Pigmentation and Keloids
Ingrown hairs can lead to various skin issues, including:
- Infected Ingrown Hairs:
These can result in pus-filled, purple bumps that may cause skin damage and scarring if irritated or infected.
- Keloid Scars:
Some individuals may develop keloid scars from ingrown hair infections. Keloids are smooth, elevated bumps of continuously growing scar tissue, varying in color from flesh-toned to pink or red.
- Hyperpigmentation:
Ingrown hairs can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), appearing as flat, brown areas. This is more common in individuals with darker skin tones and is particularly noticeable in the bikini area after hair removal.
Both at-home and professional treatments can help reduce the appearance of ingrown hair scars, whether they’re traditional scars or areas of excess melanin. However, prevention is key; taking steps to avoid infected, ingrown hairs is the best way to prevent scarring in the first place.
Natural Remedies for Ingrown Hair Scars
Allow Time for Healing
Before treating scars, ensure the wound has fully healed:
- Keep the area moist to prevent scabbing and promote faster healing
- Clean the area regularly with mild soap and water to prevent infection
- Cover the wound with a breathable bandage to protect it from irritation
- Monitor for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge
- Wait until the skin has completely closed and any scabs have fallen off naturally
- Remember that newer scars (less than a year old) respond better to home treatments
Home Remedies Try these techniques to reduce or eliminate small ingrown hair scars:
1. Sunscreen
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- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily
- Protects scar from UV damage, which can worsen discoloration
- May help fade the scar faster by preventing further pigmentation
- Reduces both brown (hyperpigmentation) and red (erythema) discoloration
- Reapply every 2 hours if exposed to direct sunlight
2. Green Tea
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- Contains powerful antioxidants called catechins
- Offers anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce scar appearance
- Potential benefits in reducing scar tissue (though more research is needed)
Application methods:
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- Steep green tea bags in hot water, let cool, then apply directly to scar for 10-15 minutes
- Create a compress by soaking a clean cloth in cooled green tea and apply to the affected area
- Look for skincare products containing green tea extract for daily use
- Use consistently for several weeks to see potential improvements
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3. Aloe Vera
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- Natural plant with gel-like substance known for skin-healing properties
- Contains compounds that may promote collagen production and skin elasticity
- Has moisturizing effects that can help keep scar tissue soft
Application methods:
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- Cut an aloe vera leaf and extract the fresh gel
- Apply a thin layer of gel directly to the scar
- Gently massage into the skin for 2-3 minutes
- Leave on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing
- Use store-bought pure aloe vera gel if fresh plant isn’t available
- Apply 2-3 times daily for best results
- Continue treatment for several weeks to months
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4. Essential Oils
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- May help reduce scar visibility through various properties
- Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut, jojoba, or almond oil) before applying
- Recommended dilution: 2-3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil
- Perform a patch test before widespread use to check for allergic reactions
Beneficial oils to try:
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- Lavender: Known for skin-healing and anti-inflammatory properties
- Tea tree: Offers antimicrobial benefits and may help prevent infection
- Geranium: May improve skin elasticity and promote cell regeneration
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Application:
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- Gently massage diluted oil into scar tissue for 3-5 minutes
- Apply once or twice daily
- Continue treatment for at least 4-6 weeks to see potential results
- Consider using skincare products that already contain these essential oils for convenience
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Remember to be patient, as natural remedies often take time to show results. If scars persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist for professional treatment options.
How to Prevent Scars from Ingrown Hairs
Preventing ingrown hairs is the best way to avoid scars. Here are effective strategies to stop ingrown hairs before they start:
1. Never Pick at Ingrown Hairs The most crucial rule is to never pick at ingrown hairs. This means:
- Don’t attempt to shave over ingrown hairs
- Avoid using tweezers to pull them out
2. Modify Your Shaving Regimen Experts advise against shaving against the grain, as it can cut hair below the skin’s surface, increasing the risk of ingrown hairs. Instead:
- Shave with the grain
- Use a shaving cream or gel to prevent skin irritation
3. Follow Best Practices The American Academy of Dermatology recommends these steps:
a) Wash gently
- Use a mild, noncomedogenic cleanser for a clean surface
b) Exfoliate
- Use a mild chemical exfoliant (salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid) on areas with coarse hair
c) Shave warm, damp skin
- Shave after showering or apply a warm compress to the area
d) Use hydrating shaving cream
- Apply cream and let it sit for a few minutes before shaving
- Reapply if it dries out
e) Use a fresh, sharp razor
- Change blades after 5-7 shaves or use an electric razor
- Store the razor in a dry place to prevent bacterial growth
f) Shave lightly
- Use gentle strokes and low pressure
- Shave with the grain
- Rinse the razor after each stroke
g) Cool the skin
- Apply a cool compress after shaving to soothe skin and tighten pores
By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and subsequent scarring.
Special Considerations for Different Body Areas
Facial Ingrown Hairs
Men are particularly prone to ingrown hairs in the beard area. Extra care should be taken when shaving facial hair:
- Use a pre-shave oil to soften the hair
- Consider using a single-blade razor for a gentler shave
- Apply an aftershave balm to soothe the skin
Pubic Area Ingrown Hairs
The pubic area is particularly prone to ingrown hairs due to the coarse, curly nature of the hair. To minimize issues:
- Trim hair instead of shaving if possible
- Use a fresh, sharp razor for each shaving session
- Consider professional waxing or laser hair removal
Legs and Underarms
These areas are commonly shaved and can be prone to ingrown hairs. Tips for these areas include:
- Exfoliate regularly to prevent dead skin buildup
- Use a moisturizing shaving cream or gel
- Consider epilating or waxing as alternatives to shaving
When to See a Doctor
While most ingrown hairs can be managed at home, there are times when you should seek medical attention:
- If you develop signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus)
- If ingrown hairs are a persistent problem despite home care
- If you’re developing noticeable scars or pigmentation changes
- If you have a medical condition that affects wound healing (like diabetes)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ingrown hair scars fade on their own?
Minor scars may fade over time, but more severe scars often benefit from treatment.
How can I remove black spots caused by ingrown hairs?
Use a combination of exfoliating acids, melanin inhibitors, and antioxidants in your skincare routine. For stubborn spots, consider professional treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy.
Is there a way to permanently prevent ingrown hairs?
Laser hair removal is the most effective long-term solution as it targets the hair follicle itself.
How long do ingrown hairs typically last?
Most ingrown hairs resolve on their own within a few weeks. Severe cases may take longer, especially if the area is continually irritated.
What’s the best way to reduce scarring from ingrown hairs?
Prevention is key. Avoid picking at ingrown hairs, keep the area clean and moisturized, and use gentle hair removal methods. For existing scars, vitamin C serums and other scar-reducing treatments can be effective.
Can ingrown hairs always cause dark spots?
Not always, but they can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in people with darker skin tones or if the ingrown hair becomes infected or irritated.
Conclusion
Dealing with ingrown hairs and their resulting scars can be frustrating, but with proper care and prevention, you can minimize their occurrence and appearance. Remember, the key steps are:
- Prevent ingrown hairs through proper hair removal techniques
- Treat any ingrown hairs gently and avoid picking
- Use appropriate treatments for any resulting scars or hyperpigmentation
- Seek professional help for persistent or severe cases
When you follow these tips, you can maintain a smoother, clearer skin and reduce the impact of ingrown hairs on your daily life.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional or licensed dermatologist for personalized treatment of skin conditions
