Ingrown hairs: prevention and dolutions for smooth skin

What are ingrown hairs?

During hair regrowth following hair removal, a hair becomes ingrown when it cannot break through the stratum corneum.
It instead continues to grow underneath the skin’s surface, causing inflammation of the follicle (folliculitis).

Where do ingrown hairs appear?

Ingrown hairs can form in any area that is shaved or has the hair removed in some form, including beards.
Razors, waxing, plucking or waxing gels may cause the regrowing hair to curl under the stratum corneum. Instead, shaving with an electric razor ensures the hair remains outside the follicle, meaning it cannot become embedded.
Ingrown hairs may also form in areas of intense friction, such as on the legs or groin after wearing tight stockings or trousers.

Why do ingrown hairs form?

Once shaved or removed, hair begins to regrow inside the hair follicle. Upon reaching the hair follicle’s outlet, it breaks through and continues to grow. However, if the follicle outlet is obstructed, the hair bends and grows into the stratum corneum.

What can block hair follicles?

The most common cause of hair follicle blockage is the application of creams or oils that penetrate the follicles and cause comedones to form, blocking the follicle outlet. Dry skin is also considered a cause of ingrown hairs.

Ingrown hairs and folliculitis

Folliculitis causes inflammation of the hair follicle that may result in a red spot, or a pustule with a white or yellow center.

Ingrown hairs and cysts

Ingrown hairs can cause a cyst to form, which is a closed pocket of tissue filled pus that can be very painful. Cysts as a result of ingrown hairs usually occur in the beard area or in the groin.

Treating ingrown hairs

Ingrown hairs can be difficult to treat. However, the end goal of any treatment is to release the hair from the stratum corneum, while simultaneously calming any folliculitis. With salicylic acid, and keratolytic and antiseptic properties, 2S Cream and Glicosal Lotion (glycolic acid) can both be used to cure ingrown hairs.
They should be massaged into the affected area every evening until healed. Cysts should, instead, be treated with antibiotics and cortisone.

Preventing ingrown hairs

Generic creams or oils should be avoided. Instead, begin micropeeling with Glicosal Lotion or Glycocream+ to stimulate desquamation.
Those who are prone to developing ingrown hairs should: After waxing:

• Apply the non-comedogenic Soothing Cream once a day for four days to dry out the skin ahead of micropeeling.
• Apply Glicosal Lotion or Glycocream+ in the evening from the fifth to the fifteenth day, the phase in which hair regrows.
• The area can be freshly waxed after discontinuing micropeeling for at least four days.

After shaving:

• After each shave, use Glicosal Lotion or Glycocream+ on the shaved area every evening for ten days, which is the time it takes for hairs to emerge.

Those with dry skin can use the non-comedogenic, self-hydrating Extreme Emollient Ointment.

Conclusion

Ingrown hairs can cause folliculitis and cysts that are difficult to treat.They can, however, be easily prevented with micropeeling lotions that help to release the hair thanks to their exfoliating properties.