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Not a pimple and not a rash — those small, irritated bumps on your skin are a common yet uncomfortable occurrence that many people experience after shaving, waxing or tweezing. Ingrown hairs, while typically harmless, can be a major stressor and pain point. This guide breaks down the root causes, how to heal the affected area and how to prevent more from cropping up in the future. 

What Is an Ingrown Hair? 

Ingrown hairs occur when a hair regrows, typically after shaving or waxing. The hair curls back into the skin rather than emerging, causing an under-the-skin growth. Many people see a visible red bump on their skin, sometimes accompanied by pus and irritation or itchiness. 

Those who shave their beard regularly may experience ingrown hairs on their face and chin, while those who shave their legs, armpits or bikini lines are more likely to develop them in those areas. However, it is possible to have ingrowns anywhere that hair grows, including your scalp, back and even nostrils. 

The Root Cause — Why Do They Keep Coming Back? 

Though ingrown hairs are normal and common, there are some factors that may make you more prone to seeing them often: 

• Hair removal techniques and frequency: Shaving is one of the biggest culprits for causing ingrown hairs. Shaving every day, especially close to the skin and/or against the grain, or harsh waxing and tweezing can disrupt hair growth and cause irritation when the follicles regrow.  
• Hair type: Those with coarse, curly and thick hair are often more likely to experience ingrowns because of the higher chance for the hair to curl in under the skin. 
• Dead skin cell buildup: Clogged pores can block the openings of hair follicles, trapping hair from breaking through the skin.  
• Wearing tight clothing: Clothes may rub against your skin, causing uncomfortable friction, irritating areas and blocking hair growth. 

How to Heal an Ingrown Hair

While ingrown hairs are likely to heal on their own, the following steps can help you treat the irritated areas and free the hair from the skin. 

1. Soften Your Skin With a Warm Compress

You can dampen a towel with warm — not hot — water and place it on the affected area to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Apply the compress to the area for a few minutes. You can do this multiple times a day until the area is less red and irritated, or proceed to the next step.  

2. Gently Exfoliate to Free Trapped Hair

Use a gentle exfoliant to help clean the area and remove dead skin cell buildup. You can use the same warm towel compress to scrub the area, or try natural exfoliants that do not irritate your skin further. Rub in small, circular motions. The goal of exfoliating the area is to create an opening for the hair to escape. 

3. Unloop the Hair — Don’t Pluck

If you see the hair emerge, you can take a sterile needle or tweezers and gently pull the hair out from under the skin. It’s very important not to pluck the hair out, as this can lead to further inflammation, irritation and more ingrown hairs. Instead, unlooping the hair gives it a chance to grow as it normally would, while the surrounding skin can heal. 

4. Soothe and Calm Your Skin 

Continue treating your skin to ease any lasting irritation. Reapply the warm compress, and cleanse the area to prevent further buildup. You can apply soothing treatments like aloe vera or tea tree oil diluted with coconut oil to help alleviate discomfort and promote ongoing healing. 

Preventing Ingrown Hairs From the Start

Giving yourself a break from shaving or waxing may be a great way to let your skin breathe for a bit, but if this isn’t a long-term solution for you, here are some ways you can trim the hair while keeping the ingrowns at bay. 

Optimize Your Shaving Routines

Even though hair removal is at the core of the crime, that doesn’t mean you have to give it up entirely. If you prefer to shave, these tips can help make the process smoother: 

• Shave with the grain: Rather than pulling a razor up when your hair is facing down, follow your hair’s natural growth pattern to keep from irritating the follicles. 
• Don’t shave too close: Leaving a bit of stubble behind can give the hair enough room to regrow above the skin. Think in terms of trimming rather than removing. 
• Use the right products: Shaving cream and fresh, sharp razors can minimize irritation and ensure a clean cut. Be sure to clean and replace razor blades often. 
• Try alternative options: Consider a trimmer instead of a razor, or opt for hair-removal creams if appropriate.

Exfoliate Regularly to Keep Pores Clear

To minimize the buildup of dead skin cells that trap hair, exfoliate your skin weekly. You can use natural, physical exfoliants like sugar scrubs or use exfoliating brushes. If you prefer a gentler, chemical exfoliant that does not disrupt the skin barrier, try pineapple juice, which contains enzymes that break down bonds, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin smooth. 

Find the Right Skincare 

Moisturizing is a critical step, especially after exfoliating, shaving or waxing. Find a lotion that suits you and apply it regularly to avoid dry, dead and irritated skin.

Everyone’s skin is different, so finding the perfect routine may take time. Some may find that pore-cleansing products like salicylic acid and cream topicals work best for their skin, while others prefer more natural solutions like coconut oil and pineapple juice. A regular routine can help reduce unpredictable flare-ups and minimize frequency over time. 

Choose Your Clothes Wisely

Tight clothing and elastic materials may irritate your skin, leading to ingrown hairs in unexpected areas or worsening already-inflamed areas. If possible, wear soft, breathable clothing, especially right after shaving or getting waxed. 

When to See a Professional

Though ingrown hairs typically heal on their own within a few days and often do not require treatment, they can become infected and require medical attention. If at-home remedies do not work or worsen the affected area, you should consider seeking medical treatment. If you are concerned that the irritated bump is more than an ingrown hair, speak to a professional.  

More Than Skin Deep — Outgrowing Ingrowns

As common and harmless as they may be, ingrown hairs are a pain to deal with. The proper care, attention and dedication to self-care can help you beat the bumps and reclaim your skin, one follicle at a time.