Treatment FAQ

what is a homemade do it yourself treatment for ingrown hairs

by Amari Schuppe MD Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Easy DIY Remedies for Your Pesky Ingrown Hairs

  • Aspirin-Honey Treatment. This recipe is a double whammy. Not only does aspirin naturally contain salicylic acid, but honey also has antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the possibility of inflammation ...
  • Coconut Oil Sugar Scrub. You can use an exfoliant or other mild granular ingredients (like sea salt or granulated sugar) and mix it with a carrier (like avocado or coconut ...
  • Baking Soda and Oatmeal Treatment. Here's a great combo: Baking soda, which is a great exfoliator, helps reduce and prevent ingrown hairs.
  • Tea Tree Oil Soak. Tea tree oil is anti-inflammatory, and it has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which is why it's found in so many acne products. 6 
  • Black Tea Bag Treatment. Tea is known to have many natural healing properties, and black tea, in particular, contains anti-inflammatory properties to soothe skin and reduce redness.
  • Oil-Based Serum. FYI, if you're particularly sensitive, it's best to avoid overly harsh scrubs. ...
  • Tea Tree Oil and Witch Hazel. Tobia tells us tea tree oil combined with warm water is a great antiseptic to use in the affected area.
  • Aloe Vera Baking Soda Treatment. Look for products or natural ingredients (like aloe vera) that contain salicylic acid. ...

Home remedies:
  1. Tea tree oil kills bacteria and brings down swelling. It's sometimes used to treat acne, and it may also work for ingrown hairs. ...
  2. Sugar is a natural exfoliator. Mix it with olive oil or honey to moisturize the skin and kill bacteria. ...
  3. Baking soda helps to exfoliate and bring down inflammation in the skin.

Full Answer

What is the best treatment for ingrown hair?

Mar 31, 2020 · Lifestyle and home remedies. To release ingrown hairs, you can: Wash the affected area using a washcloth or soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a circular motion for several minutes. Do this before shaving and at bedtime. Use a sterile needle, inserting it under hair loops, to gently lift embedded hair tips.

How do you pull out an ingrown hair?

Apr 01, 2022 · Tretinoin ( Retin A) cream can help decrease skin plugging or hyperkeratosis. Topical tretinoin cream may thin out the epidermis, reduce the buildup of dead skin cells, and decrease hair embedding into the follicles. Topical corticosteroid creams are applied to reduce inflammation of inflamed ingrown hairs.

How to draw out an ingrown hair?

Apr 25, 2022 · Another way to keep the bumps away and treat ingrown hairs is by getting a "facial" after you shave or wax. Haven Spa in New York City offers a …

How do you heal ingrown hairs?

In areas that are prone to ingrown hairs, such as the pubic area, reducing how often one shaves, waxes, or tweezes can make razor burn less prevalent. Gently applying mild exfoliating scrubs in a circular motion before and after hair removal can help release trapped hairs and get rid of …

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What will draw out an ingrown hair?

Start by applying a warm compress to the area, since the heat will soften the skin, says Dr. Solomon. Then, very gently, exfoliate the skin trapping the hair. “Move a washcloth or clean, soft-bristled toothbrush over the area in a circular motion for several minutes,” she suggests.

What heals ingrown hairs fast?

How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs FastStep 1: Exfoliate every time you shower. The key to preventing and treating all ingrown hairs? ... Step 2: Apply salicylic acid to the ingrown hair. ... Step 3: Soothe the bump with cortisone cream.Jun 5, 2020

Does baking soda help with ingrown hairs?

Baking soda can be used as a gentle exfoliator to remove ingrown hair from skin. There's no data baking up this use for baking soda, but lots of people swear by its effectiveness. Try making a paste with water or a non-comedogenic oil. Then gently scrub the area of skin containing ingrown hairs in a circular motion.Oct 31, 2019

Is rubbing alcohol good for ingrown hair?

To help expedite the process, you can also apply a warm, steamy cloth over the affected area. If you notice a loop of hair at the surface, you can use sterilized tweezers to gently pull the trapped hair out, but don't dig around for it. Follow up with rubbing alcohol to help prevent any infection.Sep 13, 2018

Does toothpaste help ingrown hairs?

Picking at ingrown hairs is bad with a capitol B. If you get the urge to start going to town, Miles recommends applying a hot compress to the area to reduce swelling and covering the ingrown with serum or a soothing at-home remedy like toothpaste or baking soda.Jul 4, 2017

Will peroxide draw out an ingrown hair?

Sometimes the ingrowth may get infected so make sure you use anti-bacterial soaps to keep it clean. You can dab the area with hydrogen peroxide and remove the ingrowth with a pair of tweezers. Sometimes your ingrowth develops puss and looks a lot like a pimple.Jul 4, 2016

Can apple cider vinegar get rid of ingrown hairs?

All you need to do is soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar, go over with it on the affected areas and let it air-dry. Let the vinegar work its magic by opening up clogged pores and giving access to the ingrown hair to grow outwards. Rinse with normal water after about 15-20 minutes.May 16, 2019

Does apple cider vinegar work on ingrown hairs?

Apple cider vinegar: Let it dry naturally for 15 minutes, and then wash it off with plain water. The antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar will bog the dead skin cells away, thus opening up your clogged pores, allowing the ingrown hair to grow out.Apr 12, 2017

How do you get rid of ingrown hairs overnight?

Here are some suggestions:Use benzoyl peroxide on the ingrown hair when you shower or bathe. ... Press a warm, clean, wet washcloth against the ingrown hair. ... Use sterilized tweezers to pluck out an ingrown hair. ... Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with warm, distilled water and soak the area.More items...

Does Vaseline get rid of ingrown hairs?

The answer is Yes. Vaseline is also effective for ingrown hair. When you shave, your skin becomes rather coarse, dry, and itchy that can cause ingrown hair. Vaseline is an effective lotion to moisturize your skin after shaving, helping to soothe and heal your skin.Feb 12, 2022

Is Witch Hazel Good for ingrown hairs?

Get into the habit of applying cold water or witch hazel to your face immediately after shaving or waxing. Both can reduce irritation, tighten pores, moisturize, and help treat ingrown hairs. Witch hazel also stops bacteria from growing in hair follicles.

Is baby oil good for ingrown hairs?

“Exfoliate, then rub the area with baby oil before you shave to soften the hair and skin. Shave using a men's razor (one with four blades) and men's moisturizing shaving cream. Dab some rubbing alcohol on the skin after you shave to kill bacteria … then apply deodorant (an unscented Dove stick works best) liberally.Aug 31, 2016

What is an ingrown hair?

Ingrown hair, also known as pseudofolliculitis or razor bumps, refers to a common skin condition caused when hairs are trapped under the skin surfa...

What causes ingrown hairs?

Ingrown hairs most frequently result from various hair removal methods. Shaving is a common cause because razors cut hairs at different angles. As...

What does an ingrown hair look like?

Ingrown hairs typically present as small, red bumps in areas where hair has been recently removed. Sometimes, the hair under the surface of the ski...

How do you treat an ingrown hair?

The initial treatment for ingrown hair consists of a healthcare provider removing the hair that is trapped under the skin. After making a very smal...

How do you prevent ingrown hairs?

It is typically advised to avoid shaving, waxing, and tweezing in order to prevent ingrown hairs. If hair removal by these methods cannot be avoide...

What are the most important facts to know about ingrown hair?

Ingrown hair, also known as pseudofolliculitis or razor bumps, refers to a common skin condition in which hair grows back into the skin. Ingrown ha...

Diagnosis

Your doctor is likely to diagnose ingrown hairs by looking at your skin and discussing with you your hair removal habits.

Treatment

To treat ingrown hairs, stop shaving, tweezing or waxing until the condition improves — usually one to six months. If that's not possible, consider laser treatment, which removes the hair at a deeper level and inhibits regrowth. Laser treatment may cause blisters, scars and skin darkening.

Preparing for your appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care doctor. He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in skin conditions (dermatologist).

Ingrown hair facts

Ingrown hairs are a common, benign skin disorder seen in all age groups.

Ingrown Hair Symptoms & Signs

Since the most common cause of ingrown hairs is cutting or removal of the hair below the level of the follicular orifice (commonly called a pore by patients), it typically tends to occur on your face, neck, armpits, groin, and legs.

What causes an ingrown hair?

Hair that is cut close to or below the follicular opening may have a sharp tip that can pierce the skin to cause an ingrown hair.

Who develops ingrown hairs?

Nearly everyone will have an ingrown hair at some time. Overall, teenagers and adults are more prone to ingrown hairs. African-American individuals with thicker, coarser tightly curling hairs tend to have the highest rate of problems with ingrown hairs.

Are ingrown hairs the same as razor bumps or pseudofolliculitis?

One type of ingrown hair is pseudofolliculitis, also called " razor bumps ," in which small red bumps appear on the beard area (lower face and neck) and may flare with repeat shaving. Razor bumps are commonly experienced by African-American men, especially those who shave frequently.

What is the treatment for an ingrown hair?

Although an ingrown hair can heal on its own and spontaneously dislodge, in some cases, it may be tough to get rid of it. Available treatments include

Are there any home remedies for an ingrown hair?

Although no cure exists, it is possible to decrease the occurrence of ingrown hairs. The easiest way to do this is through proper hair and skin hygiene.

What is an ingrown hair?

Ingrown hair, also known as pseudofolliculitis or razor bumps, refers to a common skin condition caused when hairs are trapped under the skin surface. Ingrown hairs usually appear in areas where hair has been recently removed (e.g., shaved or waxed), such as on the face, neck, legs, armpits, pubic area, and back.

What causes ingrown hairs?

Ingrown hairs most frequently result from various hair removal methods. Shaving is a common cause because razors cut hairs at different angles. As a result, the ends of the hairs can curl inwards and grow back into the skin. Pulling the skin tightly while shaving can also increase the likelihood of developing razor bumps.

What does an ingrown hair look like?

Ingrown hairs typically present as small, red bumps in areas where hair has been recently removed. Sometimes, the hair under the surface of the skin can be seen inside the bump. The affected area is often itchy. Scratching and the continued growth of the ingrown hair can further irritate the overlying skin, causing persistent redness.

How do you treat an ingrown hair?

The initial treatment for ingrown hair consists of a healthcare provider removing the hair that is trapped under the skin. After making a very small incision with a needle or scalpel, the provider can free and remove the hair.

How do you prevent ingrown hairs?

It is typically advised to avoid shaving, waxing, and tweezing in order to prevent ingrown hairs. If hair removal by these methods cannot be avoided, there are many measures an individual can take to reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs.

What are the most important facts to know about ingrown hair?

Ingrown hair, also known as pseudofolliculitis or razor bumps, refers to a common skin condition in which hair grows back into the skin. Ingrown hairs usually appear in areas that are shaved, waxed, or tweezed frequently, such as the face, neck, legs, armpits, pubic area, and back. In addition, curly hair is more prone to becoming ingrown.

Smooth skin and prevent irritation

Amari is a freelance writer with a focus on health, culture, and relationships. She has a degree in communications from Le Moyne College and is currently a Roy H. Park Fellow at the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media.

Best Overall: Tend Skin Tend Skin Solution

Not only is Tend Skin perfect for those who struggle with ingrown hairs on a regular basis, but its formula is reasonably priced. A thin layer of Tend Skin is meant to be applied after the hair removal process to reduce bumps and redness .

Best for Bikini Line: Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment

A combination of salicylic, glycolic, and phytic acids, Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment removes dead skin by exfoliating, clearing out pores, fighting bacteria, and freeing hair before it can become ingrown. The powerful formula is infused with willowherb and lavender to soothe irritated skin and moisten it.

Best Oil: Fur Ingrown Concentrate

Made with all-natural ingredients, Fur Ingrown Concentrate helps target ingrown hairs and eliminate them. The mitt is meant to be used to exfoliate any areas of ingrown hairs or can just be used for extra buffing. Dr. Kaminska says gentle exfoliation helps ingrown hairs to come out since the hair under the bump is close to the surface.

Best Scrub: OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub

Whether you suffer from ingrown hairs or not, a reliable body scrub is always a great thing to have on hand. And if you notice ingrown hairs popping up often, OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub is a must.

Best for Legs: Bliss Bump Attendant Pads

Perfect for use between waxing and shaving sessions, Bliss Bump Attendant pads smooth the skin while exfoliating it. They can be used daily to smooth areas of the skin, but you have to wait at least 12 hours after shaving and 24 hours after waxing before using them.

Best Natural: Bevel Spot Corrector

This spot corrector from Bevel is the perfect all-in-one ingrown hair solution. Not only does it target ingrown hairs, but it also reduces whiteheads, acne bumps, and hyperpigmentation .

Best Overall: Jack Black Bump Fix Razor Bump & Ingrown Hair Solution

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that works to exfoliate the skin. Its molecule is slightly larger than glycolic acid, meaning it works a bit slower and doesn't penetrate the skin's outermost layer as easily.

Best Budget: Tend Skin Solution

If you struggle with persistent ingrown hairs and irritation, this holy grail formula is perfect for you. Reviewers who’ve tried the product rave about its effectiveness at reducing and preventing ingrown hairs—especially stubborn ones.

Best for Legs: Bliss Attendant Ingrown Hair Eliminating Pads

Lavender oil (aka lavandula angustifolia) is a type of essential oil that comes from the flowers of the lavender plant, which grows in various regions such as France and Bulgaria. Its main components are linalool, linalyl acetate, lavandulol, geraniol, and eucalyptol, which have antibacterial as well as anti-fungal properties.

Best for Bikini: Fur Ingrown Concentrate

You’ll enjoy massaging this luxurious oil into your skin post-shave, especially with the textured finger mitt. The formula soothes irritation, prevents and treats ingrown hairs, and lessens skin discoloration. Apply this to areas where redness, bumps, and irritation tend to occur.

Best Multi-Use: Alleyoop Spot Me All-In-One Blemish Treatment

Not only does this product treat ingrown hairs, but it also reduces blemishes and bumps—all thanks to its gentle, effective formula featuring salicylic acid (to unclog pores and nix breakouts), glycolic acid (to reduce redness and dissolve dirt), and Candian willow herb (to soothe the skin).

Best Brightening: PFB Vanish Chromabright Face Serum

This product—which can be used on the face, neck, or body—does double duty. While salicylic acid exfoliates the skin and prevents clogged pores, the brand's proprietary brightening complex reduces the appearance of dark spots from ingrown hairs and evens out your skin tone.

Best Gel: Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment

This gel treatment enlists a combo of salicylic, glycolic, and phytic acids to exfoliate the skin, clear out pores, and fight infection-causing bacteria. Plus, because it's infused with lavender and willowherb, your skin will feel extra calm after applying it.

What Are Ingrown Hairs?

An ingrown hair occurs when a hair strand attempts to grow out of a follicle opening but ends up growing into the skin. When the hair grows into the skin, your body considers it a foreign object, causing redness and inflammation as it attempts to fight it off.

3 Top Causes of Ingrown Hairs

You shave, tweeze, or wax - These methods of hair removal tend to leave fragments of each hair behind, below the skin’s surface. Shaving, in particular, risks cutting each hair off at a sharp edge, making it easier for hair to grow into the skin.

How to Stop Getting Ingrown Hairs

For those who wish to continue to shave, our tips for a stress-free shave can also double up as steps to lower your risk of ingrowth.

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