Knoxville Dermatology Group > Prevent Ingrown Hairs

Prevent Ingrown Hairs

July 10th, 2014
Knoxville Dermatology Group

As irritating as they are, ingrown hairs pop into our lives, forcing us to deal with them. It’d be easier if they just never happened, right? That’s where your Knoxville Dermatology Team can help. Check out our easy-to-do tips for preventing ingrown hairs:

  • Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! The major cause of ingrown hairs is dead skin blocking the hair follicle from growing out properly. A great at-home remedy can do the trick. Add a scoop of kosher salt to some shower gel and you’ve got an easy pre-shave exfoliator.
  • Keep skin soft. Soft skin is more pliable which means your hair is less likely to snag on dead skin after you shave. Apply shaving cream or pre-shave oil 10 minutes before removing hair to prep the skin.
  • Better safe than sorry! Avoid infection by using a lotion or oil with anti-bacterial ingredients like tea tree oil or lavender oil. Alcohol-based products are a no-no as they can dry out, irritate and inflame your skin.
  • Adjust your technique. Believe it or not, there is a right and wrong way to shave. One trigger for razor bumps is shaving too closely, so don’t pull or tug at skin while shaving. Also, don’t put too much pressure on the blades. Use as few strokes as possible and in the same direction to avoid the hair follicle digging inward or sideways.

These quick tips will go a long way to help you achieve smoother skin this summer and say goodbye to those pesky ingrown hairs.

If you have any questions about ingrown hairs or about changes in your skin, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

  • Prepare Your Skin for the Upcoming Winter
    Fall is in full swing and the temperature is quickly dropping. With the air getting...
    View More
  • 3 Quick Non-Surgical Fixes To Look Your Best
    If you desire to look more youthful and feel better about yourself in 2020, we...
    View More
  • One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. While we all enjoy being outdoors during this fun and relaxing time of year, dermatologists are compelled to encourage our patients to practice sun safety in order to reduce the health risks associated with the summer sun.
    Update Your Sun Safety – Tips to follow this Summer
    One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer before the age of...
    View More
  • Skin exam at a dermatologist office
    Importance of Skin Checks
    As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, medical offices are back to being fully open for healthcare...
    View More