5 Natural Solutions To Remove Ingrown Hairs
It is essential to treat ingrown hairs in order to avoid complications such as infection and cosmetic problems such as darkening of the affected area.
We have to s of First consider some key aspects in order to choose an appropriate procedure for removing ingrown hairs. Let’s see them below.
Ingrown or cystic hairs are those which, after being shaved, instead of pushing out, grow under the skin. It can cause irritation, pain and make the skin unsightly.
This type of problem results from obstruction of the hair follicles which accumulate dead cells and sebum residues on their surface.
Are ingrown hairs harmless?
Anyone can suffer from it at some point in their life. The people most prone to this problem, however, are those who have too tight curly hairs or those who ignore certain necessary care before and after waxing.
Although they are considered harmless and often appear sporadically. In some, the ingrown hairs cause inflammation, redness, and fill with pus, which is bothersome and unsightly.
Causes of ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs appear because, instead of growing up and out, they grow inwards and do not cross the barrier formed by the dermis. This can happen because of the buildup of dead skin on the hair follicle or because the hair is too thick or curly.
Here are other related factors:
- Use of mechanical razors or razor blades,
- Shaving on dry skin,
- Skin tight during shaving,
- Hair removal with tweezers.
Symptoms of ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs appear in areas of continuous hair removal, such as the beard, legs, and pubic area.
Their main symptom is a small protuberance, similar to an acne pimple, which contains a hair embedded inside.
The other inconveniences they can cause are:
- Skin redness,
- Small lesions similar to blisters, containing pus,
- Darkening of the skin,
- Pain or tenderness,
- Itching sensation.
Fortunately, there are several natural solutions that can help them extract without harming the area.
Natural solutions to facilitate the removal of ingrown hairs
To extract ingrown hairs, you can start by doing the following:
- Wash the affected area with lukewarm water, then using a soft-bristled toothbrush, massage the area using gentle circular motions to relieve inflammation and pain ;
- Apply a compress of chamomile for a few minutes;
- Insert a sterilized needle under the ingrown hairs;
- It is recommended to stop shaving or waxing the area for a period of time.
According to popular culture, you can also resort to the natural remedies below.
1. Warm compress
Applying a warm compress to the affected area can soften the tissue around the inflammation, helping to remove encrusted hair.
How to use it ?
- Immerse a cloth or towel in hot water and apply to the bristles.
- Leave on for 5 minutes, then take a 5-minute break and repeat the operation.
- Perform the treatment several times a day, until the hair is close enough to the skin surface.
2. Sea salt
Sea salt is a natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to restore function to the affected hair follicle.
This, among other things, improves blood circulation and promotes normal hair growth.
How to use it ?
- Dampen some sea salt with water and rub it on the affected area with a light massage.
- Leave on for 5 minutes and rinse.
- Repeat the treatment daily until the hair is removed.
3. Apple cider vinegar
Although there is no scientific evidence, the organic acids in apple cider vinegar are believed to help reduce inflammation in the area where the ingrown hairs are located.
How to use it ?
- Dip a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the ingrown hairs.
- Squeeze gently and leave on for 5 minutes.
- Repeat the use twice a day, until the problem is resolved.
4. Sodium bicarbonate
At the popular level, it is considered that in addition to vinegar, you can use baking soda. You must however be very careful with this product. because if used in large amounts or too frequently, it could burn the skin and make the problem worse.
How to use it ?
- Prepare a paste of baking soda with water and rub it on the affected area. It is not necessary to cover the entire skin area, but only where the ingrown hairs are.
- Leave on for 5 minutes and rinse.
5. Black tea
Black tea contains tannic acid, a substance that softens the skin while reducing inflammation and redness. It is an ideal product for removing ingrown hairs.
How to use it ?
- Immerse a black tea bag in hot water and let it sit.
- When it is hot, apply it to the affected hair and leave it on for 10 minutes.
- Repeat its use 2 or 3 times a day.
What if these solutions don’t work?
If the solutions did not help you remove ingrown hairs, you should is better to go to the dermatologist. The professional will be able to provide you with the most appropriate treatment, not only depending on the ingrown hairs, but also your skin type and other important factors to consider.
Remember that it is very important not to manipulate the area with your hands while permanently, or with an instrument (tweezers, pencils or other sharp objects), as this will only increase the inflammation.
If the pus ball bursts, the wound may become re-infected. Therefore, it is essential to avoid handling it and, if necessary, to do so with clean hands and with alcohol and cotton wool handy.
