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How to Treat Ingrown Hairs on Your Underarms
Ingrown hairs are a common problem that can cause pain, discomfort, and embarrassment. They occur when a hair grows back into the skin instead of coming out of it. This can happen anywhere on the body, including the underarms. In this article, we will discuss how to treat ingrown hairs on your underarms and prevent them from occurring in the future.
Table of Contents
Understanding Ingrown Hairs
Before we can discuss how to treat ingrown hairs, it’s important to understand what they are and what causes them. Ingrown hairs occur when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells or other debris. This prevents the hair from growing out of the follicle and instead causes it to grow back into the skin. This can cause inflammation, redness, and even infection.
Causes of Ingrown Hairs
There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing ingrown hairs. These include:
- Curly or coarse hair
- Shaving, waxing, or plucking hair
- Tight clothing that rubs against the skin
- Using harsh soaps or other products that irritate the skin
- Sweating excessively
Treating Ingrown Hairs on Your Underarms
If you have an ingrown hair on your underarm, there are several things you can do to treat it. Here are some tips:
1. Exfoliate the Skin
Gently exfoliating the skin can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris that can clog hair follicles. You can use a gentle scrub or brush to exfoliate the underarm area. Be sure to do this gently and not too frequently, as over-exfoliation can irritate the skin.
2. Apply Warm Compresses
Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help to soften the skin and reduce inflammation. You can use a warm washcloth or a heating pad for this. Apply the compress for 10-15 minutes several times per day.
3. Use a Sterile Needle
If you can see the ingrown hair, you can use a sterile needle to gently lift the hair out of the skin. Be sure to clean the area with rubbing alcohol first and then use the needle to lift the hair up and out of the skin.
4. Avoid Shaving
Shaving can increase your risk of developing ingrown hairs, so it’s best to avoid shaving the underarm area until the ingrown hair has healed. If you must shave, be sure to use a sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth.
5. Use a Topical Cream
There are several over-the-counter creams that can help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Look for creams that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide.
Preventing Ingrown Hairs on Your Underarms
Preventing ingrown hairs on your underarms is key to avoiding the discomfort and embarrassment that they can cause. Here are some tips for preventing ingrown hairs:
1. Exfoliate Regularly
Regularly exfoliating the underarm area can help to prevent ingrown hairs by removing dead skin cells and other debris that can clog hair follicles.
2. Moisturize the Skin
Moisturizing the skin can help to prevent dryness and irritation that can lead to ingrown hairs. Look for a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.
3. Use a Sharp Razor
Using a sharp razor can help to prevent ingrown hairs by cutting the hair cleanly. Be sure to replace your razor frequently to ensure that it is sharp.
4. Shave in the Direction of Hair Growth
Shaving against the direction of hair growth can increase your risk of developing ingrown hairs. Be sure to shave in the direction that your hair grows.
5. Don’t Wear Tight Clothing
Wearing tight clothing that rubs against the skin can increase your risk of developing ingrown hairs. Opt for looser clothing that allows your skin to breathe.
6. Avoid Harsh Products
Using harsh soaps or other products on your underarms can irritate the skin and increase your risk of developing ingrown hairs. Look for gentle, non-irritating products.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, ingrown hairs on your underarms can be treated at home with the tips outlined above. However, if your ingrown hair is causing severe pain, redness, or pus, you should see a doctor. They may be able to remove the hair or prescribe an antibiotic to treat an infection.
Conclusion
Ingrown hairs on your underarms can be painful and embarrassing, but they can be treated and prevented with the right approach. By exfoliating regularly, moisturizing your skin, using a sharp razor, and avoiding tight clothing, you can reduce your risk of developing ingrown hairs. If you do get an ingrown hair, follow the tips outlined above to treat it and prevent it from becoming infected.
FAQs
Can ingrown hairs on your underarms cause a rash?
Ingrown hairs can cause redness and inflammation, which can resemble a rash.
Are there any home remedies for treating ingrown hairs?
Applying a warm compress and using a sterile needle to lift the hair out of the skin are both effective home remedies for treating ingrown hairs.
How long does it take for an ingrown hair to heal?
It can take several days to several weeks for an ingrown hair to heal, depending on the severity of the inflammation.
Can shaving too frequently cause ingrown hairs?
Yes, shaving too frequently can increase your risk of developing ingrown hairs.
Are there any medical treatments for ingrown hairs on your underarms?
In severe cases, a doctor may be able to remove the hair or prescribe an antibiotic to treat an infection.
References:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/ingrown-hair-underarm
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325719
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-hair/symptoms-causes/syc-20373893
- https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/understanding-ingrown-hair-treatment
- https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19938463/ingrown-hair-treatment/
