Skin specialist
Bernie Fahy
Ingrown hair is also known as Pseudofolliculitis Barbae. Typical symptoms include shaving lumps, shaving burns, hair lumps and ingrown hairs visible just under the skin surface. There might be a single ingrown hair, or there might be clusters of them, but either way, they lead to unsightly, uncomfortable ‘spots’. Worse, what starts out as redness can wind up as infection.
Root causes
Ingrown hairs, which can affect men or women, are caused by improper shaving, waxing or, in some cases, by clothing worn too tight around the neck or legs. When shaving is responsible, the hair – which is given a sharp edge by the razor – breaks off under the skin and begins to grow into the side of the hair follicle. An infection ensues and redness and pustules appear on the skin dermis. The closer the shave, the more risk, as the hair follicle can’t find a proper exit as it grows.
For men, the beard area has always posed a problem. With chest, back and leg-hair removal now becoming more popular among men, these parts are also starting to suffer.
The groin area in women is a most common site of ingrown hair, thanks to the increase in bikini shaving and waxing. With the advent of the ‘Brazilian’, women are more susceptible to this condition than ever.
If the condition is left unattended and the rash becomes exposed to bacteria, infection can occur. Bacterial yeasts or fungal infections can make the problem worse, as can acne.
Treating hairy problems
Shaving less often will give the trapped follicles a chance to find their way out by themselves. If this proves ineffective, then try shaving with a product suitable for sensitive skin and a single bladed razor.
Always shave in the direction of hair growth. For men, shaving downwards on the face area and upwards on the neck is recommended. Women should shave towards the body on the legs, underarms and pubic areas. Single-bladed razors for women are good.
Never use a blade more than three times, as blunt blades exacerbate this condition. If you must use an electric razor, don’t press too hard on the skin.
Medicated after-shave lotions can soothe the skin and promote soft and supple post shave areas. Natural treatments, for example those containing tea tree oil or aloe vera, are often recommended to defend the dermis from infection after hair removal by shaving or waxing. Always bear in mind that the skin will need hydration before and after hair removal, whatever method is used. This encourages hair follicles to push through the surface naturally, with the least resistance. Ultimately, prevention rather than cure is better.
In extreme cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat ingrowns, but remember, they can also have side effects and so should not be the first port of call. Permanent hair removal is a good option for eradicating this condition for good, and laser treatment and electrolysis are proven combatants.
Bernie Fahy works in Ballinrobe, Westport and Galway. She can be contacted at 086 2220125 or info@bernietheskinspecialist.com. For more information, visit www.bernietheskinspecialist.com.
