Ingrown hair

An ingrown hair curls back against and through the skin as it grows. These "razor bumps" or "shaving pimples" technically known as folliculitis barbae, occur most often in people with coarse or curly hair.

Those of African descent are particularly prone to them.

When possible, it's a good idea to leave an ingrown hair alone - to let nature take it's course. This, however, is not always an option.

When these lumps become infected or form in clusters, they can look like a case of acne. If left untreated, over time this condition can cause keloid scarring.

How shaving causes razor bumps

Whiskers that are cut too short or on an angle (making them extra-sharp), curl back, penetrating the skin. The site becomes infected when bacteria enter the puncture.

The resulting inflamed follicles are technically called pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB).

Pulling the skin as you shave may cause whiskers to be cut too short, increasing the chance of an ingrown hair. Leave skin relaxed while you shave.

Shaving against the direction of beard growth can create extra-short whiskers that don't grow out properly. Shave with the direction of your beard.

Go over an area ONLY ONCE - more than that can cause problems, especially if there is already an ingrown hair or two where you're shaving.

Shaving with a dull blade increases the likelihood of tearing whiskers and creating pimples. Replace the blade in your razor regularly - and use a single-blade razor that does not lift and snap the hair back into place, as multi-blade razors do.

Using the closest setting on an electric razor can aggravate your skin or any bumps you already have, increasing the chance for inflammation.

Follow the tips on how to shave with a razor and lather or on the best way to use an electric razor to learn how to eliminate many of the ways razor bumps develop.

Options and help

Apply a local antiseptic such as hydrogen peroxide or an antimicrobial treatment designed for your skin type (oily, dry, etc.) to help numb the area and prevent further infections.

If an ingrown hair gets infected, and you can't leave it alone as you're supposed to do, check out the right way to pop a zit and follow the directions carefully.

Exfoliate prior to shaving and on a regular basis to help prevent ingrown hairs. Exfoliating products help slough off dead skin cells on the skin surface. This clears the path for whiskers to grow normally.

Let your beard grow for a day or two to let your skin rest. You may like the way you look especially as "scruffy" is "in" - and sexy.

Using a depilatory (a lotion or cream designed to dissolve whiskers), instead of a razor eliminates cutting whiskers too short or on an angle.

The chemicals in depilatory products are strong, may cause redness and irritation or contain ingredients known to be harmful or toxic. Your best bet is to be well informed and read labels before making your decision.

Electrolysis and laser hair removal are good choices in extreme situations, however they're expensive and require repeat visits.

Hannibal

credit: ej (umop ap!sdn)

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Untreated ingrown hairs