Introduction
It is called ingrown hair, when hair grows sideways or curls back into the skin instead of growing out. This can happen anywhere on the body where there is hair, but it is more common in areas that are shaved or experience friction, like the face, legs, armpits, and pubic region. When ingrown hairs occur in the pubic area, they are known as ingrown pubic hairs.
Ingrown hairs are prevalent, impacting individuals of diverse genders and ethnic backgrounds. Those with curly or coarse hair are more prone to getting them because their hair tends to curl back into the skin. Shaving, waxing, or plucking hair can also increase the chances of getting ingrown hairs because it creates sharper edges that can easily penetrate the skin.
What Are the Causes of Ingrown Pubic Hairs?
There are several reasons why ingrown pubic hairs can happen. One main factor is how hair is removed and how it grows.
When one shaves, waxes, or plucks their pubic hair, it can create sharp edges on the hair shaft. This makes it easier for the hair to grow into the skin instead of outward. Sometimes, when one shave, the hair can grow back at a sharper angle, which increases the chances of it becoming ingrown.
The texture and curliness of the hair also play a role. If the pubic hair is curly or coarse, it is more likely to curl back into the skin after being cut. This happens because of the hair's natural growth pattern and its tendency to curl upon itself.
Wearing tight clothing and experiencing friction can make the problem worse. These factors can irritate the skin and cause the hair to bend and re-enter the skin.
Poor shaving techniques, like shaving against the grain or dull razors, can also contribute to ingrown hairs. These habits can lead to skin inflammation and irritation, increasing the chances of developing ingrown hairs.
What Do Ingrown Pubic Hairs Look Like?
Ingrown hairs in the pubic area usually appear as tiny, red bumps or pustules that might be encircled by irritated or inflamed skin. These bumps can look like pimples or boils and may lead to discomfort or itching. Occasionally, one might notice visible hair follicles trapped beneath the skin's surface, suggesting the presence of ingrown pubic hairs.
Symptoms of Ingrown Pubic Hairs
Redness.
Swelling.
Tenderness.
Itching.
Pain or a burning sensation if it gets infected.
Complications of Ingrown Pubic Hairs
Bacteria entering the skin through openings created by ingrown hairs can result in abscesses or cysts, causing more pain and inflammation. If left untreated, infections can spread, requiring medical treatment such as antibiotics or drainage procedures.
Continuous ingrown hairs may lead to skin scarring or darkening (hyperpigmentation), particularly if the area is frequently irritated or manipulated.
Scratching or picking at ingrown hairs can escalate inflammation and increase the chances of infection.
How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hair in the Pubic Area at Home?
To effectively get rid of ingrown hairs in the pubic area, various strategies can be used:
Home Remedies for Ingrown Pubic Hairs Include
Exfoliation - Regularly exfoliating can help eliminate dead skin cells, making it easier for ingrown hairs to surface. Use a mild scrub or soft washcloth to gently exfoliate the affected area.
Warm Compresses - Applying a warm, moist compress to the ingrown hair can help soothe inflammation and encourage the hair to surface. Hold the compress against the affected area for five to ten minutes several times daily.
Tea Tree Oil - This has anti-microbial properties and can help prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the ingrown hair using a cotton swab.
Aloe Vera - Aloe vera gel has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve discomfort associated with ingrown pubic hairs.
Warm Baths - Soaking in a warm bath can help soften the skin and facilitate the release of ingrown hair. Add Epsom salts or oatmeal to the bathwater for additional soothing benefits.
Avoid Tight Clothing - Tight clothing can worsen ingrown hairs by causing friction and irritation. Choose loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics to prevent further irritation.
Hair Removal - Modify the methods of hair removal to reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs. For instance, if shaving leads to ingrown hairs, try alternatives like waxing or depilatory creams.
How Is Ingrown Pubic Hair Treated?
In severe or persistent ingrown pubic hairs, seeking professional assistance may become imperative.
The following are the options available.
Prescription-strength topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, can help to exfoliate the skin and prevent the formation of ingrown hairs.
Corticosteroid creams can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin caused by ingrown hairs.
Laser hair removal can be an effective long-term solution for preventing ingrown pubic hairs by permanently reducing hair growth in the treated area.
Chemical peels formulated with glycolic or salicylic acid compounds are effective in skin exfoliation, helping prevent ingrown hairs.
Dermatologists can safely extract deeply embedded ingrown hairs using sterile instruments to prevent infection and scarring. This procedure is performed in a clinical setting.
In cases of severe infection, a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to treat bacterial infections associated with ingrown hairs.
When Should a Doctor Be Consulted for Ingrown Pubic Hair?
It is recommended to seek medical advice from a doctor if ingrown pubic hair does not improve with home remedies, deteriorates over time, or shows signs of infection like heightened pain, redness, pus, or swelling. Also, if there is severe discomfort, inflammation, or frequent recurrences of ingrown hairs, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Can Ingrown Pubic Hairs Be Prevented?
Ingrown pubic hairs can be prevented by following these steps:
Avoid shaving too closely and always shave in the direction of hair growth to reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs.
Gently exfoliate the pubic area regularly to remove dead skin cells and help prevent hairs from becoming trapped beneath the skin.
Keep the skin in the pubic area moisturized to prevent dryness contributing to ingrown hairs.
Explore alternative hair removal methods such as waxing or depilatory creams, which may be less likely to cause ingrown hairs than shaving.
After hair removal, avoid tight clothing and harsh chemicals on the skin. Soothing products or gels can be applied.
Conclusion
Ingrown pubic hair presents a frequent and bothersome issue, yet it can often be effectively controlled with appropriate oversight and intervention. Simple home remedies like gentle exfoliation and warm compresses can provide relief, while more severe cases may require medical intervention. Practicing good grooming habits and getting professional help to prevent complications like infections or scarring is necessary.
