What are ingrown hairs?
Ingrown hairs are very common, and occur when a hair grows sideways or downwards instead of upwards, and becomes trapped under the skin. This can cause a skin-coloured or red bump. They can occur anywhere on the skin, and are very common after shaving and waxing.
How can I prevent ingrown hairs?
- If you shave, use the correct technique: shave with the direction of hair growth, rather than against. This may result in a less close shave, but fewer ingrown hairs as a result.
- Use a chemical exfoliant: apply a product containing lactic acid, glycolic acid or salicylic acid several times per week, to help reduce the build up of dead skin cells which can lead to ingrown hairs.
- Use a physical exfoliant: gently exfoliate the skin with an exfoliating mitt or glove.
- Avoid thick, heavy moisturising creams: opt for a lighter lotion instead, which is less likely to block hair follicles.
Laser hair removal can be curative.
