Ingrown hairs occur because the direction of growth goes into the skin, characterized by red bumps that are sometimes painful. Most ingrown hairs are easy to treat (though annoying and unsightly), but some can cause problems and even lead to infection. Like other skincare tips, the appropriate course of action for each person is difficult to determine without experimentation. So you have to search and try what is the best way.
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Part 1 of 3: Shaving Smarter
Step 1. Use steam to soften skin before shaving
Dry and tight skin promotes inward hair growth. So, take steps to soften and soften the skin. Shave after (or during) a shower to take advantage of the steam's effect on the skin and hair of the legs.
Exfoliating can be helpful (because it removes dead skin cells) or it can be painful (because you have to scrub the skin). Pay attention to what is best for you
Step 2. Don't shave too close to the skin
Apply only slight pressure and don't pull the skin tight. This will result in slightly longer shaving residue and less chance of sharp, short tips getting into the skin.
- The remaining longer fur is less noticeable than the reddish bumps caused by ingrown hairs.
- Try an electric razor if you're having trouble making sure there's still some hair left with a manual razor.
- There is no provision which is better at preventing ingrown hairs, single or double edged razors. However, make sure the razor you use is always clean and sharp.
Step 3. Shave in the direction of hair growth
Leg feathers usually point downward although there are also feathers that are in a messy direction. If you shave in the opposite direction, the remaining hair will bend and curl, increasing the chances of curling inward. Shaving in the direction of hair growth will reduce the chance of irritation.
If the unidirectional method doesn't work, try shaving against the direction of hair growth. This method is generally less effective, but sometimes it works for some people
Step 4. Wash the blade every single stroke
While it may seem like a hassle, a clean razor won't carry dirt, dead skin, or other microscopic debris into (or under) the skin. Tap the razor hard against the side of the tub or sink to loosen the hairs from between them.
Electric razors don't need to be cleaned that often. However, make sure you remove the blade head and clean it thoroughly after shaving
Step 5. Apply a cold washcloth to your feet when you're done
Light, cool pressure will reduce inflammation and also close the pores. Do not rub the washcloth, just put it on the skin.
Step 6. Wait a while before shaving again
The leg hairs that are allowed to grow longer will prevent inward growth. If you want to shave regularly, give yourself enough breaks. Shaving too often will only make that area of skin worse.
Part 2 of 3: Caring for Feet Vulnerable to Ingrown Hair
Step 1. Choose loose clothing
Long socks are a common cause of ingrown hairs for men who don't shave because tight socks prevent hair from growing outwards. Tight jeans will exacerbate problems with your legs and thighs. Consider ankle-length socks or slim-cut jeans.
- If you have a problem with ingrown hairs on other parts of your body, try loose-fitting clothing in those areas. Tight underwear causes problems with pubic hair which is naturally coarser and curlier. Try looser underwear for women or underpants for men.
- Friction is also a contributing factor. Choose clothes that are comfortable and loose when you will be moving around a lot to allow your feet to breathe. Instead of tight trousers, opt for shorts or sweatpants.
Step 2. Do not pluck the hair with tweezers or wax
When the hair is pulled from the follicle, the tip must penetrate the skin when it grows back. If they fail to penetrate the skin, the tips of the hairs will grow inward or curl into the skin. The risk is higher in people who have coarse or curly hair.
While the use of tweezers or waxing is fine for some people, these methods are very likely to cause ingrown hairs
Step 3. Avoid skin products that contain alcohol
Alcohol can make the skin tighten and dry, making irritation worse. In turn, the condition causes ingrown hairs.
Step 4. Relieve pain with cortisone cream or aloe vera
Apply to skin to relieve irritation and redness. Don't try waxing, shaving, or other hair removal methods for a few days.
Step 5. Try a hair removal cream instead of shaving
Hair removal cream will lift the hair on the surface of the skin. Shaving leaves sharp edges, while creams don't so it will reduce irritation. Feathers will grow back from the roots. That is, the cream does not offer permanent results.
Part 3 of 3: Coping With Ingrown Hair
Step 1. Remove with tweezers
Soak the tweezers in rubbing alcohol to make them sterile, then look for the hairs under the skin. Do not pull up to the roots, just the ends. The redness and irritation will definitely lessen.
Don't go too deep if you're having a hard time pinching the bristles. Let it grow a few days, and try again when it's longer
Step 2. Overcome with active ingredients
Products containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid can treat ingrown hairs because they are exfoliating agents. Both types of acid are widely contained in acne medications. Usually, there is a drying side effect on the skin. So, apply moisturizer afterwards.
- You can see the results after 3-4 days of use.
- Some chemicals are sensitive to sunlight. So, read the directions carefully and apply sunscreen if necessary.
Step 3. Consider laser treatment
As a powerful solution, the laser hair removal method is an option for chronic ingrown hair problems. This treatment inhibits hair regrowth. So, decide only if you want to get rid of leg hair forever.
- Despite rapid technological advances, laser treatment is more effective on people with light skin and dark hair. Success on light hair (like blonde) or dark skin may not be that great.
- Even if you have light skin, there is another consideration, namely cost. The cost required for several laser sessions reaches millions of rupiah.
