Avoid Ingrown Hairs Becoming a Problem Again

Ingrown hairs are unsightly and can be painful. They are hairs that have been unable to break the top layer of skin and start to grow on an odd angle. Many people want to know how to remove them but you also need to know how they have happened. This often helps to prevent them from happening instead of having to deal with the removal again.

Hairs start to grow like this usually when they have been shaved. The most common areas for these types of hairs to occur are on the face and legs, but they can appear on the back, chest and arms. The methods of removal affect the way that the hairs are cut, which can cause them to grow underneath layers of the skin and this causes inflammation. Shaving is the most common reason because this method of hair removal cuts the hairs at the skin level, and often on angles. The hair then gets trapped as it tries to grow back out.

Removing ingrown hairs is possible, but it can lead to unsightly areas for a period of time. If you do find an ingrown hair, it's worth pulling it out as it can lead to infection if left for too long. The good news is that it is possible to avoid the pain of ingrown hairs altogether. It is essential that you take some steps before any type of hair removal process, especially when waxing or shaving.

One of the best things that you can do is to completely change your hair removal method. The most common cause of ingrown hairs is shaving. This is because the hairs are cut at odd angles and end up growing at strange angles, usually under that first layer of skin.

Epilating, waxing and plucking can also cause them but it is not as likely. The problem is that these can be more time consuming. Epilating is painful for some as it is a lot of little tweezers plucking the hairs out. It's not the best for fine hairs either. Waxing is great but it is painful and you need to wait for the hairs to grown between sessions. Plucking is painful and extremely time consuming. This is best just for the eyebrows or to get single hairs!

It may be worth looking into laser hair removal. While this is costly and there are some side effects, it completely eliminates ingrown hairs. It eliminates hair removal completely! However, this isn't for everyone and you will need to really think about your hair removal options.

By softening the skin, you will make the removal process much easier, especially when it comes to shaving. Having rough skin leads to bumps and makes it harder to reach the hairs and pulls them out of the skin at odd angles. There is no need for any special treatment to soften the skin; warm water is perfect. You could consider shaving your legs the next time you are in the bath or place your legs in warm water while shaving.

Loosen the hairs once the skin is softer. Take a washcloth and use it in circular motions around the areas that you are about to wax or shave. You should also do this after removing any ingrown hairs to help them grow back normally.

It is also worth exfoliating before you remove the hair, especially if you are going to shave. It removes all the dead skin cells from the top layer of skin, which allows you to actually get to the live skin. It will help to reduce the amount of bumps that appear afterwards and will unblock your pores. Not only do you have a better hair removal process but you'll have better looking skin too!

There are many different methods of hair removal, but shaving is one of the most popular. It is quick, easier and less painful compared to many others. When you opt for shaving, make sure you invest in shaving gel and find one that will help to moisturise your skin.

Shave in the direction that hairs grow in the body rather than pulling against the skin. This may be the opposite way that you are used to and will take longer but prevents problems afterwards. The pulling and tugging is what causes hairs to start growing at bad angles and traps them under layers of skin.

It's also worth investing in a shaver that offers extra moisture protection. Technology is constantly advancing, and new razors are available on a regular basis.

Razors now offer closer shaves through the use of double- or triple-blades. While these reduce the time it takes to remove your hair, they also cause more hairs to catch within the skin by drawing the hair backwards. Ingrown hairs are more likely so opt for single-blade users and take your time.

If you can, opt for an electric razor instead. This doesn't give the close shave that bladed ones do. This is great if you're going to shave on a daily basis or you just want something for your legs for one night only.

Once you have removed the hair, it is time to look after the skin. Take the time to care for it with moisturising cream and massage it in to promote healthy hair growth. The moisturising cream or aftershave will also help to prevent the skin from drying out and can help deal with the process of regrowth, which can be itchy and irritating.

Straight after removing the hair, use cold water over the area. This will tighten your pores to encourage the hair to instantly start growing upright.

Ingrown hairs are a problem and are painful. They take time to remove but you can reduce the chance of them happening. If you prefer to shave, wax or pluck your hair, you need to make sure the skin is soft and the hairs are loose and ready for removal. If you get fed up of constantly working on the hairs and removing them from your skin, you may want to consider laser hair removal for a permanent hair removal option.