Shaving, waxing, and tweezing can lead to ingrown hairs. These bumps can be uncomfortable and unsightly, potentially requiring medical treatment. Learn more about this issue in the following guide.

How Ingrown Hairs Occur

When you remove a hair strand, the follicle remains in the pore. If dead skin, dirt, or other particles have clogged the pore, new hair can grow sideways or back down into the skin. Curly or thick hair may also curl on its own and grow in the wrong direction.

Ingrown hairs are most common in areas with thick hair that people try to remove, including the armpits, legs, pubic area, chest, back, face, and neck.

How to Avoid Complications From Ingrown Hairs

Some ingrown hairs may go away on their own. Simply stop shaving the area to allow it to heal and apply a warm compress to the bump.

However, sores may get worse over time if they become infected due to bacteria. An infected hair resembles a pimple and has pus in the pore. In this case, you’ll need to receive medical treatment. A doctor might make a small cut in the skin to let the hair and bacteria out, then clean the pore. They might prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to fight the infection and decrease inflammation.

Laser hair removal prevents complications. This semi-permanent solution targets the follicle along with the hair strand. If the hair grows back at all, it develops much more slowly and thinner. Thinner hair is less likely to grow into the skin.

If you’re worried about ingrown hairs, turn to Emerald City Medical Arts in Seattle, WA. Serving the surrounding areas, this clinic is a state-of-the-art facility offering the latest in cosmetic and medical treatment. They will create a custom plan to help you achieve your aesthetic and health goals. Learn more about their laser hair removal procedure online, and call (206) 281-1616 to schedule an appointment.