How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hair: Causes and Prevention

Ingrown hairs are a common issue for anyone who shaves, waxes, or removes body hair regularly. They appear as small, red bumps that can be tender or itchy, and in some cases, they may even become infected. While they’re not usually dangerous, ingrown hairs can cause discomfort and affect your skin’s appearance. Using gentle scrubs is one of the easiest ways to manage and prevent them. In this article, we’ll break down why ingrown hairs happen, how to treat them safely, and simple ways to prevent them from coming back, so you can maintain smooth, healthy skin.

 

What is Ingrown Hair?

 

Ingrown hairs develop when newly growing hair curls back or sideways into the skin instead of emerging outward. This trapped hair causes inflammation, leading to raised bumps that may resemble pimples. Some ingrown hairs contain visible strands beneath the skin’s surface, while others form painful cyst-like bumps. They often occur in areas subject to frequent hair removal, such as the legs, underarms, bikini line, and face. Although not harmful, untreated ingrown hairs can darken the skin or leave behind marks over time.

 

Causes of Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs often happen due to a mix of grooming habits, skin buildup, and hair type. Understanding these triggers helps you prevent them before they start. Here are the most common reasons why ingrown hairs occur:

1. Shaving Too Closely or Against the Grain

Shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth or pressing the razor too hard cuts hair at a sharp angle, making it more likely to curl inward. Extremely close shaves push hair beneath the skin, causing it to grow sideways rather than upward. This technique may feel smooth initially, but it often leads to irritation and painful bumps afterward.

2. Lack of Exfoliation

When dead skin cells build up on the surface, they create a barrier that traps new hair underneath. Without regular exfoliation, this buildup prevents hair from breaking through the skin properly. Over time, the trapped hair forms inflamed bumps that can become itchy or sore. Consistent exfoliation is key to preventing this cycle.

3. Curly or Thick Hair Types

People with naturally curly or coarse hair are more prone to ingrown hair because their strands tend to coil back toward the skin. This is especially noticeable in areas like the beard, bikini line, or underarms, where hair grows denser. As the hair curls inward, it pierces the skin, leading to bumps and sometimes even dark marks.

4. Tight Clothing and Constant Friction

Wearing snug clothing creates continuous friction, especially on freshly shaved or waxed skin. This pressure can force hair back under the skin and trap it there. It’s why ingrown hairs are commonly found along the thighs, waistline, and underarms where tight fabrics rub the most. Opting for looser clothing after hair removal can minimize this issue.

5. Improper Waxing or Plucking

Incorrect waxing or plucking techniques can break the hair below the skin’s surface rather than removing it cleanly from the root. These broken hairs often regrow unevenly and fail to emerge through the skin, forming painful ingrown bumps. Ensuring proper technique and aftercare reduces the risk of this happening.

How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hair: Safe Treatment Tips

It’s common to want to pick or dig at an ingrown hair, but doing so often causes more harm than good. The safest approach is to treat the area gently, soften the skin, and allow the trapped hair to surface naturally. Here are effective, dermatologist-approved methods to manage ingrown hairs at home without damaging your skin:

1. Exfoliate Gently

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that block hair follicles and keep hair trapped beneath the surface. Using a gentle scrub with natural ingredients like sugar, apricot seed, or fruit enzymes loosens the buildup without irritating the skin. Chemical exfoliants such as salicylic or lactic acid can also work if your skin tolerates them well. Doing this two to three times a week keeps the pores clear and speeds up healing.

2. Apply a Warm Compress

Warm compresses soften the outer layer of skin and make it easier for the trapped hair to break through naturally. Simply soak a clean cloth in warm water, apply it to the affected area, and leave it in place for 5–10 minutes. Repeating this twice daily reduces inflammation and encourages the bump to heal faster. Combining this with gentle exfoliation can be even more effective for stubborn ingrown hairs.

3. Soothe with Anti-Inflammatory Products

Topical treatments can significantly calm irritation while treating the root cause of the ingrown hair. Aloe vera gel or chamomile reduces redness and discomfort, while tea tree oil provides antibacterial benefits to prevent infection. For deeper exfoliation, products with glycolic acid or salicylic acid help unclog pores and allow the hair to surface. Applying these after a warm compress makes them work even better.

4. Avoid Picking or Scratching

Resist the urge to squeeze or scratch the bump, as this can push the hair deeper and introduce bacteria. Picking often leads to scarring and even long-term dark spots, which are harder to treat than the ingrown hair itself. If the hair is clearly visible and close to the surface, sterilized tweezers can be used to gently lift it out, but never dig into the skin to remove it forcefully.

5. Hydrate the Skin

Moisturized skin is less likely to trap hair because it stays soft and flexible. After exfoliating or shaving, apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that soothes and restores the skin barrier. Look for ingredients like aloe, shea butter, or glycerin for hydration without clogging pores. Keeping your skin consistently moisturized helps prevent future ingrown hairs and keeps it smooth between grooming sessions.

 

Prevention Tips for Ingrown Hairs

Preventing ingrown hairs is all about adopting better grooming habits and maintaining healthy skin. Here’s how you can keep them at bay:

• Prep the Skin Before Hair Removal: Always cleanse and exfoliate beforehand to remove buildup and allow smoother shaving or waxing.

• Shave in the Right Direction: Follow the natural direction of hair growth to reduce irritation and minimize inward hair growth.

• Use Clean, Sharp Razors: Replace blades often to avoid uneven cuts that trap hairs under the skin.

• Moisturize Daily: Hydrated skin is more pliable and less likely to trap hairs beneath the surface.

• Avoid Tight Clothing Post-Shave/Wax: Let your skin breathe after hair removal to reduce friction and irritation.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Scrubbing Too Harshly: Over-exfoliation can damage the skin and worsen inflammation.

• Shaving Dry Skin: Always use shaving gel or cream to create a protective barrier.

• Using Dull Blades: A blunt razor tugs at the hair and increases the likelihood of ingrown hairs.

• Ignoring Persistent Bumps: Chronic ingrown hairs may require professional treatment, such as laser hair removal or dermatological care.

 

Moon Cosmetics’ Exfoliating Scrubs for Smooth, Bump-Free Skin

Upgrade your routine with Moon Cosmetics premium scrubs, specially crafted to smooth and nourish your skin. The Hibiscus Rosa Radiance Scrub brightens dull, rough areas while the Lemon Mint Cucumber Scrub refreshes and cools. For those seeking deep nourishment, the Apricot Glow Scrub and Golden Radiance Scrub are enriched with vitamins and natural oils that soften and protect. Regular use helps clear dead skin, prevent trapped hairs, and leave your skin silky-smooth,  perfect for maintaining a flawless finish after shaving or waxing.