Ingrown hairs also known as razor bumps, razor burn, hair bumps, shaving bumps or pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB), is a condition where the hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin causing inflammation. It may or may not be accompanied by an infection of the hair follicle which vary in size. While ingrown hair most commonly appears in areas where the skin is shaved viz beard, legs, pubic region, it can appear anywhere on the body.
Ingrown hairs are more common among people with very curly hair. Most ingrown hairs occur in the beard area and ingrown hairs are very common in people of colour.
The most common symptom of an ingrown hair is inflammation of the skin, followed by pus formation. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. The symptoms of an ingrown hair may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.
Many ingrown hairs will eventually grow out by themselves and don't need treatment. See one of Skin ?Body Renewal’s cosmetic doctors if you get ingrown hairs all the time or if the pain of an ingrown hair persists for more than a few days.
When needed, treatment may include:
- Topical antiseptics
- Antibiotics, if an infection is present
- Laser Hair removal in stubborn cases
Shaving tips that may help prevent ingrown hairs on the face include:
- Avoid repeated razor strokes over the same area
- Shave only in one direction and in the direction of hair growth
- Use a moisturizer to soften the beard/ hair before shaving or shave after showering to make shaving easier
For areas that are prone to ingrown hairs and are resistant to topical treatment, Laser hair removal with the Nd: YAG laser improves the problem within 2 to 3 treatments. This treatment is indicated for any skin type especially in people of colour who are more prone to this problem.
Combination packages are available at all Skin & Body Renewal Branches and include hair removal for Underarm, Half leg and Standard bikini from 2250 per treatment. For a male we offer a combination package which includes; full beard, the front of the neck as well as the back from R1500 per treatment