Ingrown Hairs - Symptom, Causes, Best Treatment & Prevention

Discover what causes ingrown hairs, how to recognise symptoms and explore treatments including laser therapy. Learn expert prevention tips to avoid issues.

What Is An Ingrown Hair?

When a hair grows inward instead of emerging properly from the follicle, it can become embedded under the skin. Rather than breaking through the surface, it curves back and traps itself, which may lead to irritation. This can cause the skin to become inflamed, irritated, and occasionally infected. It often produces a noticeable bump that looks similar to a pimple or a small cyst.

The condition can affect anyone but is more common among people with thick, coarse, or curly hair. Shaving, waxing, tweezing, or using depilatory creams can increase the chances of developing this issue. Hair that regrows after these procedures may be more likely to re-enter the skin instead of emerging cleanly.

This condition is not dangerous by itself, but it can create discomfort and cosmetic issues. Repeated irritation may lead to pigmentation changes, scarring, or the development of a cystic ingrown hair.

Symptoms

• Raised bumps resembling small pimples
• Itching or tenderness around the bump
• Redness or swelling in the affected area
• A visible hair trapped under the skin
• Discolouration or dark patches on the skin
• Painful lumps containing pus
• Formation of an ingrown hair bump
• A hard mass forming beneath the skin, sometimes indicating an ingrown hair cyst

Common Places For Ingrown Hairs

Ingrown hair can occur anywhere hair grows. However, they most frequently appear in areas where hair removal is common. Common areas affected include the face, neck, underarms, legs, pubic region, and buttocks.

For men, the beard area is particularly vulnerable. For women, the bikini line, thighs, and underarms are sensitive. They can also develop in less typical areas like the scalp or back, particularly in individuals who shave those regions.

What Causes Ingrown Hairs?

Shaving, waxing, and tweezing all disturb the natural growth cycle of hair. These methods do not remove the follicle, so the hair eventually regrows. In some cases, instead of emerging through the skin, it turns inward.

Shaving too closely or against the grain contributes to this condition. A sharp edge left behind by a razor increases the chance that the hair will penetrate the skin again.

Tight clothing, especially in warm weather, adds pressure that can push hair back into the skin. The resulting friction, sweat, and bacteria may cause further irritation, creating an infected ingrown hair. In some cases, repeated inflammation and blockage results in an ingrown hair cyst.

Dermatologist's Advice at SIAN Clinic for Ingrown Hair

At SIAN Skincare & Laser Clinic, we often see patients with recurring issues, particularly in the armpits, pubic area, and legs. These areas are sensitive, and inflammation here can cause dark marks, discomfort, or even infection.

I regularly treat patients who have unknowingly worsened their condition. Picking at the skin, trying to remove the hair at home, or using harsh exfoliants can damage the skin barrier. This leads to pigmentation problems or chronic skin sensitivity.

Rather than relying on short-term solutions, we encourage clients to consider advanced treatment options.

Best Ingrown Hair Treatment

There are many ways to deal with this issue, but not all methods are equally effective. Some over-the-counter products promise quick results but rarely provide lasting relief.

Doctors may recommend more intensive therapy for cases involving an ingrown hair cyst. Infected or painful areas need professional treatment to avoid scarring or further complications. Antibiotic creams, steroid ointments, or in-office drainage may be necessary.

The most effective ingrown hair treatment remains laser hair removal. At SIAN Clinic, we use Candela laser hair removal technology, which targets the hair follicle directly using concentrated light energy. This disables the follicle without damaging surrounding skin and significantly reduces hair regrowth over time. The procedure is safe, quick, and suited for all skin types.

Laser hair removal not only prevents recurrence but also addresses the aftermath of repeated irritation. It improves skin texture, fades dark spots, and smooths rough patches left by previous hair. It is particularly useful for patients who have undergone traditional hair removal methods without success.

How To Prevent Ingrown Hairs?

The best way to manage this condition is prevention. While you may not be able to eliminate every instance, following these steps will help reduce your risk:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing in sensitive areas
• Moisturise daily to keep skin soft and prevent blockage
• Consider switching to long-term options such as laser therapy

FAQ

What is the most effective ingrown hair treatment?
Among available options, laser hair removal offers the most consistent and effective results. It reduces hair density and prevents new problems from forming.

What does an infected ingrown hair look like?
It appears red, swollen, and may produce pus. It often feels warm or painful to touch and requires medical care if symptoms worsen.

Is ingrown hair removal at home safe?
Mild cases may respond to gentle exfoliation or warm compresses. Digging into the skin with sharp tools to extract a trapped hair could break the surface. Always consult a specialist if unsure.

What causes a cystic ingrown hair?
This happens when a hair grows deep under the skin, triggering inflammation in the surrounding tissue. The resulting pressure or bacterial buildup can cause a swollen, pus-filled lump to form.

How can I tell if I have an ingrown spot?
Watch for a red, elevated spot where you may see a hair trapped beneath the skin. It may itch or feel sore, especially after shaving.

How to get rid of ingrown hair quickly?
Stop shaving, apply a warm compress, and exfoliate gently. Ongoing or severe cases might require professional treatment to fully resolve the issue.

Does ingrown hair lead to permanent skin damage?
Yes, repeated cases can cause pigmentation, scarring, or raised keloids, especially in people with darker skin.

What is an ingrown hair cyst?
It is a more severe form of ingrown hair where inflammation and infection cause a hardened lump under the skin. It may require drainage or antibiotics.

What does ingrown hair therapy involve?
This involves multiple strategies, such as laser treatment, skincare to calm inflammation, and exfoliation.