In-Grown Hairs

What are ingrown hairs?

Also commonly known as razor bumps and medically known as Pseudo-folliculitis Barbae (PFB), it is a widespread problem among individuals with curly hair and dark skin. They result when the shaved hair gets trapped inside the follicle or grows back into the skin. The skin reacts to it as a foreign body and becomes inflamed and irritated, creating bumps. Sometimes these bumps become quite large and can be unsightly and painful, causing scarring, redness and swelling.

Where are they likely to occur?

They can develop in any area where hair grows but usually occurs on the scalp, legs, bikini area, buttocks or the beard area on your face.

What is folliculitis?

Folliculitis is an inflammation of hair follicles caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, but other physical factors can also be a cause, eg friction. Folliculitis causes itchy or painful redness in the affected area. Small papules (red swellings) or pustules, around 1 to 5mm wide, then develop in hair follicles. A hair will pierce the papule or pustule. Usually several follicles will be affected in an area. A crust sometimes forms over pustules.

Unlike the PFB, folliculitis can occur in all skin and hair types and is not always related to shaving. This problem can be temporary or chronic and can affect people at any age.

If folliculitis persists, the infection may go deeper into the skin, causing boils, or a more widespread infection deep in the skin (cellulitis). In severe cases, folliculitis can cause scarring and, if the hair follicle is damaged, permanent hair loss.

Are there any products that can help treat ingrown hairs?

There are several products that claim to help treat ingrown hairs, but the reality is that salicylic acid is the one active substance that can visibly improve razor bumps. It is a dermatological-grade ingredient that exfoliates, moisturizes, clears pores and can help prevent infection.

Zap Laser Clinic recommends the following key products:

• AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
  This product contains salicylic acid as well as glycolic acid and lactic acid to exfoliate, cleanse and refine the skin by polishing away dullness and dehydration while improving texture and tone. It contains jojoba beads to lift off the dead skin cells and clear follicles to allow hairs to surface unimpeded. It can be used on face and body and is a useful product to have handy in the shower.
• Murad Man Cleansing Shave
  This is a combination prepping foaming cleanser and ultra-smooth shave cream in one easy step and can be used twice a day. Contains glycolic acid to exfoliate away dead skin cells and to decongest pores. Contains tea tree oil and panthenol to calm redness and irritation.
• Clarifying Toner
  Eliminates oil and impurities for hours by controlling surface shine and keeping pores clean and clear. Contains witch hazel and menthol to help reduce swelling and irritation.
• Murad Man Razor Burn Rescue
  This patented formula fights razor burn by clearing dead skin and bacteria that can clog hair follicles and infusing skin with a uniqu e blend of moisture rich healing antioxidants.
• Skin Perfecting Lotion
  Oil-free hydrator retexturises skin by controlling shine and keeping pores clear and minimised. Contains Retinol to repair scarring caused by blemishes.
• Sunblock SPF 30
  A crucial product in any skincare regime to provide maximum broad spectrum UV and environmental protection against free radical damage and to shield against premature fine lines and wrinkles. A particularly important step after glycolic/salicylic skin exfoliation to protect new skin.

Do not use any product that has alcohol, it will seriously worsen ingrown hairs by drying the skin and closing the pores.

Are there any treatments available to help razor bumps?

At Zap Laser Clinic we offer a variety of Dr Murad skin peels and facial treatments containing glycolic and salicylic acid to exfoliate away the dead skin cells that trap ingrown hairs. In addition, your skin will benefit from the anti-ageing effects of glycolic and reveal a more vibrant, smoother, younger-looking skin.

Finally, at home, we recommend not to shave too closely as this is one of the triggers for razor bumps. Hair stubs cut too closely will get trapped inside the hair follicle and dig inward or sideways. To avoid shaving too close, don't pull the skin when you shave; don't put too much pressure on the blades; shave with the grain and use a single-blade razor.

Find out more about Skin Peels and Facials