Large ingrown hairs can be painful and unsightly. Here are some things to keep in mind for removing them:
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Leave it alone if possible: Especially for deep ingrown hairs, it's generally best to leave removal to a dermatologist or doctor. They have the tools and expertise to minimize scarring and infection risks.
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Home removal (for shallow ingrown hairs): If the ingrown hair is shallow and visible, you may be able to remove it at home with caution. Here's how:
- Soften the skin: Apply a warm compress to the area for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This will help loosen the skin and make the hair easier to remove.
- Exfoliate: After softening the skin, gently exfoliate the area with a washcloth or a gentle scrub. This can help remove dead skin cells that may be trapping the hair.
- Sterilize tools: Sterilize tweezers and a needle (if needed) with rubbing alcohol.
- Gently remove the hair: If the tip of the hair is visible, you may be able to carefully grasp it with tweezers and pull it out in the direction of hair growth. Do not dig for the hair, as this can increase the risk of infection.
- Apply a topical antibiotic: After removing the hair, apply a topical antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection.
Here are some additional tips for preventing ingrown hairs:
- Shave in the direction of hair growth: This will help to prevent the hair from being cut too short and curling back into the skin.
- Exfoliate regularly: Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells that can trap hairs.
- Use a sharp razor: A dull razor can pull at the hair and increase the risk of ingrown hairs.
- Avoid tight clothing: Tight clothing can irritate the skin and trap hairs.
If you have any concerns about an ingrown hair, especially if it is red, swollen, or painful, be sure to see a dermatologist and remember, Prevention is better than a cure which is why we created a solution for that.
