Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs also known as razor bumps, razor burn, hair bumps, shaving bumps or Psuedofolliculitis Barbae (PFB), is a condition where the hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin causing inflammation. It may or may not be accompanied by an infection of the hair follicle, or razor bumps which vary in size. While ingrown hair most commonly appears in areas where the skin is shaved viz. beard, legs, pubic region, it can appear anywhere on the body.
Ingrown hairs are more common among people with very curly hair. Most ingrown hairs occur in the beard area and ingrown hairs are very common in people of color.
The most common symptom of an ingrown hair is inflammation of the skin, followed by pus formation. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. The symptoms of an ingrown hair may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.
Ttreatment may include:
- Topical antiseptics
- Antibiotics, if an infection is present
- Permanent hair removal, in stubborn cases
Shaving tips that may help prevent ingrown hairs on the face include:
- Avoid repeated razor strokes over the same area
- Shave only in one direction and in the direction of hair growth
- Use a moisturizer to soften the beard/ hair before shaving or shave after showering to make shaving easier
Topical therapies:
At Clínica Privé we offer exfoliating lotions such GLYCOGENT by ZO SKIN HEALTH which is formulated with AHAs, and is ideal moisturizing and exfoliating therapy for dry, rough skin on the face and is great for areas that are prone to ingrown hairs.
In office therapies:
For areas that are prone to ingrown hairs and are resistant to topical treatment, Laser Hair Removal with the Nd:YAG laser improves the problem within 2 to 3 treatments. This treatment is indicated for any skin type especially in people of color who are more prone to this problem.
After 2 or 3 Laser hair removal treatments to improve and treat ingrown hairs, the post Inflammatory hyperpigmentation that remains can be treated with topical skin lighteners such as BRIGHTENEX from ZO SKIN HEALTH and MELAMIN from ZO MEDICAL brightening range and/or in office Alpha Hydroxy or Beta Hydroxy peels.
