The problem of ingrown hair (also known as pseudofolliculitis barbae or shaving bumps) is a spillover effect from the vast majority of non-permanent hair removal techniques.
It occurs when hair grows into the skin and can be caused by dead skin particles blocking the normal process of hair growth. As a result, hair deforms under the skin and causes inflamed bumps, and the hair follicle can become inflamed as well.
Many women and men face the problem of ingrown hair. Let’s find out what are the features and causes of this issue and what are the solutions to it. The material is prepared with the support of experts of the brand ItalWax, so let’s dive into the details.
Contents
What Are the Symptoms?
If you see looped or straight hair under your skin, it means that you are facing the problem of ingrown hair.
This problem can appear on any body part where you remove hair. But most often it occurs in the following areas:
- women’s legs, armpits, and pubic area;
- men’s cheeks, chin, and neck;
- buttocks.
Ingrown hair can appear as red, inflamed bumps, or pimples on the skin. They also can cause pain, burn, and itchiness. In some cases of progressing inflammation, ingrown hair leads to blisters and can be surrounded by pus. In the worst cases, the problem ends with darkening or/and changing the relief of the surrounding skin and even scars.
The Causes of the Problem
The main factor causing the ingrown hair problem appearance is the hair being retracted under the skin. It happens, for example, after shaving when the tip of the hair becomes too sharp and pointed. Therefore, it, so to say, pierces the skin, staying under it instead of coming on its surface and growing normally. This may happen to the grown hair as well if it coils over and enters the skin again.
In all cases, the thickness and density of the hair, skin condition, and presence of dead skin particles that block follicles have implications. The thick and curly hair causes this problem more often. And it occurs, as a rule, in areas of skin that are subjected to friction.
What Hair Removal Methods Can Lead to the Ingrown Hair Problems
When you shave hair, it can be forced into its follicle, which may cause it to start growing inwards.
Using waxing, the follicle can be damaged, as wax removes the hair from the root. So the growing hair can become blocked beneath the skin. Tweezing also removes hair with its root, so the problem and the result of this hair removal method are similar to the ones while you wax it.
What Are the Options for Prevention?
Here are easy steps to prevent the ingrown hair problem and to minimize the likelihood of its appearing.
Exfoliation
Before hair removal, make sure that your skin is clean and free of any dirt, dead skin cells, and oils. This step prevents your follicles from being clogged. Always exfoliate your skin right before shaving or in a couple of days after waxing.
There are two ways to do this. Mechanical exfoliation is applied with the help of special brushes or sponges. These instruments remove dead skin cells mechanically.
Chemical exfoliation involves skin care products that include special chemicals for dead skin cells. Use them in small quantities, apply them carefully in circular motions, and wash them off with warm water.
Always moisturize the skin after exfoliation.
Choose Proper Techniques
Whichever hair removal method you prefer, make sure that you follow all the instructions and perform correctly. Use high-quality materials and sanitized instruments.
When shaving, use a shaving cream and an instrument with a sharp blade. Single-blade razors are preferable as they won’t shave too close to the skin.
When waxing, moisturize the skin beforehand and follow all the instructions. They differ depending on the type of wax and the technique you have chosen.
Proper Preparation Is The Key
As you can see, despite the ingrown hair problem being common, there are simple ways to prevent its occurrence. Using our advice, you will make the hair removal process easier and minimize the likelihood of this unpleasant side effect. And if you’ve already faced an ingrown hair problem, visit your cosmetologist or a doctor as soon as possible. Stay beautiful and healthy.
