Ingrown hairs – an annoying problem that everyone knows
Regardless of whether you remove your body hair by shaving, epilating or waxing - ingrowing hairs unfortunately occur from time to time. This not only looks unsightly, but can sometimes also be quite painful. If inflammation is not treated, in the worst case scenario an abscess can even form, which requires medical treatment. But don't panic: you don't have to let it get that far. Below you will find out what can cause your hair to grow in and how you can prevent and treat it.
How do ingrown hairs occur?
The main cause of ingrowing hair is usually hair removal. If the hair finally grows back, but does not grow straight out of the skin, it grows in and unpleasant skin reactions or even painful inflammation occur. Another possibility for the formation of annoying “pimples” is sebum or dead skin cells, which can block the hair growth canal. And skin type can also play a role. Particularly thick or frizzy hair, which is in the genes of Africans, is usually more prone to ingrowing. Another cause can be the following: For many women, pressure on the skin and the friction caused by clothing that is too tight prevent the hair from reaching the surface of the skin. The intimate area in particular is susceptible to ingrowing hair, as the hair is generally stronger here and the skin is particularly soft and sensitive. Ingrowing hair in the armpit area is rarer, but also possible, because here too the skin is still quite soft and elastic because it has to be able to follow all the movements of your shoulder joint. On the legs, on the other hand, the hair is usually smooth and thin and the skin is firmer. However, pants that are too tight can cause problems due to the pressure on the skin. In men, ingrown hairs can affect the cheeks, chin and neck.
How can you prevent ingrown hairs?
Prevention is better than treatment is a wise saying. There are actually a few helpful methods. You can prevent ingrown hairs if you regularly treat your skin with a body peeling, as this removes dead skin cells and paves the way for the hair to grow back, so that it can grow outwards without any detours. Here you will find a great coffee turmeric peeling. Massage the body scrub onto the skin using gentle, circular movements, paying particular attention to your shins and calves, as this is where hair grows most often. You can also use a brush for sensitive areas. After peeling, care for your skin with a moisturizing lotion. It's best to use the peeling two days before epilating or waxing.
Tips against ingrown hairs
If it's already too late to prevent and you want to get rid of an annoying ingrown hair, first try to bring it to the surface of the skin with a gentle peeling gel. If that doesn't work, you can try a cream with salicylic acid, as this can loosen slight calluses and thus also free the ingrown hair. Additionally, place a warm washcloth on the area for a few minutes to soak the skin. Zinc ointment is also helpful if the skin is red or slightly inflamed, because zinc is involved in cell growth and also strengthens our body's immune system. Simply rub the ointment onto the inflamed hair and cover it with a bandage.
Another removal method is to use a sterilized needle or tweezers to retrieve the annoying obstruction. Just remember to disinfect the area before and after. If none of this works and the hair under the skin becomes inflamed, you need to see a dermatologist or beautician. Using a sterile needle or scalpel, he may make a small incision in the affected area to remove the ingrown hair.