Ingrown Hair

Overview

Ingrown hair is a common condition that occurs when a hair that has been removed starts to grow back into the skin. This can cause tiny, swollen bumps on the skin that may be painful. Ingrown hair can occur anywhere on the body where hair is present, but it is most common in areas where hair is removed frequently, such as the face, neck, and pubic area.

Types of Ingrown Hair

1. Folliculitis: This is the most common type of ingrown hair. It occurs when a hair grows back into the skin and causes inflammation.
2. Pseudofolliculitis barbae: This type of ingrown hair occurs when a hair grows back into the skin and causes inflammation in the beard area.
3. Ingrown hairs on other areas of the body: Ingrown hairs can occur on other areas of the body where hair is present, such as the arms, legs, and torso.

Causes of Ingrown Hair

• Shaving: Shaving is one of the most common causes of ingrown hair. When you shave, you remove the top layer of hair, but not the entire follicle. This can cause the hair to grow back into the skin.
• Tweezing or waxing: Tweezing or waxing can also cause ingrown hair by removing the top layer of hair and damaging the follicle.
• Curly hair: Curly hair is more prone to becoming ingrown because it is thicker and more prone to curling back into the skin.
• Dry skin: Dry skin can increase the risk of ingrown hair because it can cause friction and irritation on the skin.

Risk Factors of Ingrown Hair

• Black people with curly hair: Black people with curly hair are more prone to developing ingrown hairs due to their hair texture and shaving habits.
• Hair removal methods: Frequent use of hair removal methods such as shaving, tweezing, or waxing can increase the risk of developing ingrown hairs.
• Genetics: Genetic predisposition can also play a role in developing ingrown hairs.

Symptoms of Ingrown Hair

Preventions of Ingrown Hair

• Avoid shaving or tweezing: Avoid shaving or tweezing your hair as much as possible to reduce the risk of developing ingrown hairs.
• Use gentle exfoliants: Use gentle exfoliants such as sugar or salt scrubs to remove dead skin cells and reduce friction.
• Moisturize: Keep your skin moisturized to reduce dryness and irritation.
• Use sunscreen: Use sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage and reduce the risk of developing ingrown hairs.

Diagnosis of Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs are typically diagnosed through a physical examination. A doctor may also perform a biopsy to rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.

Treatment for Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs can be treated with various methods, including:

1. Topical creams: Topical creams containing salicylic acid or hydrocortisone can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
2. Oral antibiotics: Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infected ingrown hairs.
3. Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the affected area can help bring pus to a head and promote healing.
4. Extraction: A dermatologist may perform an extraction procedure to remove the ingrown hair.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience any symptoms of ingrown hairs, such as tiny, swollen bumps or pain in your skin, it is recommended to see a doctor for an evaluation. Early treatment can help prevent complications and promote healing.