Ingrown hair bumps around the bikini line are a common outcome of hair removal. Ingrown hair can result in elevated lumps called papules or pus-filled bumps known as pustules. These problems can occur after shaving, and waxing, and can be irritating. Understanding the causes of ingrown pubic hairs and using preventative strategies will help keep the skin smooth and free of irritation, pain, and itching. Here are some tips to avoid ingrown pubic hair after shaving or waxing.

What is ingrown pubic hair?

“Ingrown pubic hair occurs when hair grows back into the skin instead of outward, leading to irritation, bumps, and sometimes infection. This condition can cause discomfort and cosmetic concerns and is typically associated with the pubic area. However, it can occur anywhere hair is removed or shaved,” says gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Vinatha Puli.

Ingrown hair can be uncomfortable and can be painful at times. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Causes of ingrown pubic hair

Ingrown pubic hair occurs when hair grows back into the skin rather than outwards. This annoying condition is caused by several sources, including:

1. Hair removal

The most prevalent cause is hair removal procedures. Shaving, waxing, or plucking can truncate the hair, causing it to coil back and enter the skin. According to a study published in the Medicine Journal, shaving may cause ingrown hairs, which become trapped under the skin and cause irritation and pimples.

2. Hair texture

Individuals with curly or coarse hair are more likely to develop ingrown hairs because the hair's inherent nature causes it to curve inward, as found in a study published in the Nursing and Health Science Journal. Thus, it is often advised to wax or shave the pubic hair with proper guidance to avoid ingrown hair.

3. Dead skin cells

Dead skin cells can build up and clog hair follicles, preventing hair growth and forcing it to turn inwards. However, more research is needed to prove the claim. To remove dead skin cells it is recommended to exfoliate the skin once or twice a week to prevent clogged hair follicles caused by dead skin cells.

4. Tight underwear clothing

“Do you prefer or love to wear tight underwear clothing? Immediately stop wearing them. Wearing tight or non-breathable underwear can increase friction and irritation, leading to ingrown hairs,” says Dr. Pulli.

Symptoms of ingrown pubic hair

Here are some common symptoms of ingrown pubic hair, as explained by Dr Pulli.

• Small, red, inflamed bumps on the skin where the hair is growing inward.
• Itching or discomfort in the affected area.
• Sensitivity or pain around the ingrown hair.
• Infected ingrown hairs may develop pus-filled bumps called pustules.
• The area around the ingrown hair may become swollen.

How to prevent ingrown pubic hair?

Here are some easy and effective ways to prevent ingrown pubic hair, as suggested by cosmetologist and trichologist Dr Vivek Jagmohan.

1. Prepare your pubic area for shaving

Before shaving, wash and rinse your pubic area well with warm water. You can even shave in the shower. Shaving your pubic hair while the skin is dry may increase your risk of getting ingrown hair.

• Rinse with warm water for two to three minutes before shaving.
• Apply shaving cream.
• Wait for two or three minutes.
• Begin shaving.

2. Use a single-blade razor

Using a single-blade razor can lessen the chance of getting ingrown pubic hair. When you use a multi-blade razor, the blades run over your skin multiple times, cutting the hair beneath it. A single-bladed razor glides across the skin at a softer angle, cutting smoothly through the hair. This minimises the risk of ingrown hairs and may result in reduced irritation overall.

3. Exfoliate

Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and prevents hair follicles from becoming clogged which are the main culprit for ingrown pubic hair. Thus, it is highly recommended to gently exfoliate the pubic area 1-2 times a week using a mild scrub or exfoliating glove.

4. Follow the proper shaving technique

If you follow the proper shaving procedure, it reduces irritation and helps hair grow in the right direction. Use a sharp, clean razor and shave in the direction of hair growth. Apply a moisturising shaving gel or cream right after shaving.

5. Use hair removal creams wisely

Choosing the correct hair removal creams reduces the need for shaving and the associated risk of ingrown hairs. If using hair removal creams, choose those designed for sensitive areas and follow instructions carefully. Also, consult with your doctor before using hair removal products in public places.

6. Moisturise the skin

Moisturising the skin helps to keep the skin hydrated and reduces dryness, which can contribute to ingrown hairs. Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel to the pubic area daily.

7. Avoid repeated hair removal

If you avoid repeated hair removal process it will help to reduce the frequency of irritation and help hair grow normally. Thus, allow time for the skin to recover between hair removal sessions.

8. Trim hair regularly

Trimming hair regularly helps to reduce the likelihood of hair curling back into the skin. If shaving or waxing is not ideal, consider trimming pubic hair regularly to keep it manageable.

How to treat ingrown pubic hair?

Here are some easy ways to treat ingrown hair, as recommended by Dr. Jagmohan.

1. Warm compress

Apply a warm compress for 15 minutes to pull out the hair. Soak a washcloth in hot water and wring it out until slightly moist. Next, apply the warm washcloth to your ingrown hair for up to 15 minutes. Repeat this at least four times each day, as needed. This will cause the hair to rise to the surface. A hot water bottle can also be used to create a warm compress.

2. Use gentle soap and warm water

Massage soap and warm water over the ingrown hairs for 10-15 seconds. Wet the region around the ingrown hair with warm water. Then, using soap on your fingertips, gently massage the hair for 10-15 seconds. Finally, rinse the area with warm water to remove the soap. The moderate massage and heat from the water may pull the hair out and may reduce the pain and irritation.

Using a gentle soap can help you get rid of ingrown hair. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

3. Use natural exfoliator

Use an exfoliating scrub for 10 minutes to exfoliate dead skin cells. An exfoliant can remove dead skin cells that conceal the ingrown hair, potentially allowing it to surface. Rub the exfoliator over the affected region and leave it for 10 minutes. Next, soak the exfoliator with warm water and gently rub it into your skin while rinsing it off. Here are several natural exfoliants that you can use.

• Make a paste using 1/2 cup of brown or white sugar and 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Mix 3 tablespoons of old coffee grounds and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Mix 3 tablespoons of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with just enough water to form a paste.

Also, if pus or infected, consult a dermatologist for topical antibiotic cream, salicylic, or retinol creams to remove clogs.

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