As uncomfortable as some in-law visits can be, they don’t even compare to ingrown hairs. The bumps and the pain – it’s not a fun thing to deal with. These unsightly and irritating bumps can cause a lot of pain if they aren’t managed properly.

Inside these bumps are hairs that grew back into your skin causing inflammation and irritation. Shaving is a major cause of ingrown hairs. For males, you may see ingrown hairs in your beard area like your chin, cheeks and especially your neck. For females, areas more common for ingrown hairs are your armpits, bikini line and legs. Sometimes your hair structure or even the direction you shave can cause the newly cut hair to draw back into your skin. The hair may also get caught on dry skin build up while it grows out.

One solution to solving your ingrown hairs is to stop shaving. Shaving is unavoidable in some cases, so here are a few tips on how to prevent ingrown hairs while shaving:

• Rub the area you are shaving in a circular motion with a wet washcloth or use an exfoliating scrub to clear up any dead skin build up.
• Use warm water before you shave and then apply a soothing gel after you shave.
• Shave in the same direction the hair is growing, using as few strokes as possible.
• Between each stroke, rinse the blade with water.
• Do NOT pull skin taut while shaving. Avoid shaving too close to your skin.
• To help reduce irritation, apply a cool washcloth over your skin.

These tips should help make ingrown hairs just a distant memory. If your skin continues to become irritated or inflamed, contact one of our certified physicians. Topical ointments or antibiotics can be prescribed to alleviate your symptoms.

If you have any questions about ingrown hairs or any 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 in Knoxville to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.