How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs cause bumps, which are often itchy, where a hair has grown back into the skin.

Shaving, tweezing or waxing can often cause this to happen.

There are many things you can do to treat and prevent ingrown hairs. 

Common Skin ConditionsBody CareSkincare Tips
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Andrea Patel Dermatology Nurse Practitioner & Director Read Andrea’s post
12 Minutes read

Ingrown hairs, also known as razor bumps, can be a nuisance for both men and women. Though they are usually not serious, they can be painful and unattractive. These occur when a shaved hair curls back into the skin or gets trapped in the follicle, leading to a bump or papule. This can cause redness, swelling, and sometimes scarring.

Men often experience ingrown hairs on the beard and neck areas. For women, the legs, underarms, and bikini areas are common spots for these bumps. The medical term for this condition is Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB).

While ingrown hairs can be frustrating, there are ways to prevent and treat them, ensuring your skin stays smooth and healthy.

INGROWN HAIR

What Triggers Ingrown Hairs

  1. Hair Removal Methods and Their Impact on Ingrown Hairs

    • Shaving
      Shaving cuts hair at an angle, leaving it sharp and more prone to curling back into the skin. This often leads to ingrown hairs, especially if the shaving technique is not optimal or if the skin is not properly prepared and cared for before and after shaving.
    • Waxing and Plucking
      Waxing and plucking remove hair from the root, but can cause the hair to grow back unevenly or at an angle. This regrowth pattern increases the risk of ingrown hairs, as the new hair may have difficulty breaking through the skin’s surface.
  2. Hair Type and Texture: Curly or Coarse Hair

    People with curly or coarse hair often get ingrown hairs because their hair tends to curl back into the skin instead of growing straight out. This happens a lot in places where the hair is thicker.

  3. Dead Skin Buildup: Blocked Hair Follicles

    Dead skin cells can accumulate and clog hair follicles, trapping hair beneath the skin's surface. This blockage can prevent hair from growing out normally, causing it to become ingrown.

  4. Tight Clothing

    Wearing tight clothing can create friction and pressure against the skin, especially in areas like the thighs, groin, and underarms. This can cause hair to grow back into the skin rather than outward, increasing the risk of ingrown hairs.

  5. Improper Skincare Routine

    • Lack of Exfoliation
      If you don't exfoliate regularly, dead skin cells can build up and block hair follicles, trapping hairs under the skin. Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps prevent ingrown hairs.
    • Dry Skin
      Dry skin can harden and create a barrier that makes it difficult for hairs to break through the surface. Keeping the skin moisturised can help prevent this issue and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.

How Do You Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs?

Exfoliation

Regularly exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and prevents hairs from getting trapped. 

Use products with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid for effective exfoliation.

  • PRIORI 2xfoliant Peel+Scrub LCA fx160
    This versatile at-home microdermabrasion product works for both the face and body. It exfoliates and hydrates simultaneously, offering a balance between a mild chemical peel and a mechanical exfoliator.
  • NeoStrata Resurface Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Lotion
    This lightweight body lotion provides a premium glycolic treatment for your face, body, and hands. With a 10% Alpha Hydroxy Acid blend of Glycolic and Citric Acids, it promotes skin rejuvenation for a visibly smoother appearance.
  • Jan Marini Bioglycolic Resurfacing Body Scrub
    Achieve glowing skin with this dual-action glycolic acid and physical exfoliating body scrub. It combines highly concentrated glycolic acid with exfoliating particles and key botanical extracts for noticeably smoother, silky skin.

 

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments with salicylic acid are very effective for managing ingrown hairs. These products exfoliate the skin, reduce inflammation, and help clear pores.

PFB Vanish: This roll-on gel includes a blend of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid. It exfoliates dead skin cells, soothes irritation, and helps prevent ingrown hairs. It's easy to apply and quickly absorbed, making it ideal for daily use.

Zenmed AHA/BHA Complex: This treatment combines salicylic and glycolic acids to provide deep exfoliation. It helps remove dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and reduces the chances of developing ingrown hairs. This complex is suitable for regular use and works well on various skin types.

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PFB Vanish for Treating Ingrown Hairs

About PFB Vanish

PFB Vanish is a specialized skin treatment designed as a cosmetically appealing roll-on gel. It helps alleviate and prevent ingrown hairs and razor burn or bumps caused by shaving, waxing, electrolysis, and laser hair removal. The formula includes salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid, which gently exfoliate the skin to elevate ingrown hairs above the surface. Additionally, the soothing components in the gel help reduce inflammation, redness, and other signs of irritation.

Which PFB Vanish Product Should I Choose?

PFB Vanish

PFB Vanish is a roll-on gel specially designed to treat ingrown hairs, razor burn, and bumps caused by shaving, waxing, or hair removal. It contains natural antibacterial ingredients like willow bark extract and camphor oil to help prevent infections from ingrown hairs, while Glycolic, Salicylic, and Lactic acids gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin. Its soothing formula also helps reduce inflammation and release trapped hairs, leaving the skin smooth and bump-free.

Suitable for: To treat Ingrown hairs or sensitive skin

PFB Vanish - PFB Vanish roll-on gel 93g
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£25.00

- PFB Vanish eliminates ingrown hairs

- Lifts trapped hair and treats razor burn and bumps.

- Unique roll-on gel formula 

 

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PFB Vanish + Chromabright

One of the most popular products, this roll-on formula contains Chromabright, which brightens the skin and reduces the appearance of dark spots from ingrown hairs. It is also soothing, making it ideal for calming irritated skin after hair removal procedures.

Suitable for: Treating and preventing ingrown hairs and post-inflammatory pigmentation (dark marks left after ingrown hairs).

PFB Vanish - PFB Vanish + Chromabright 93g
FREE Gift
£29.00

- Combats and releases ingrown hairs

- Lightens dark spots which can be caused by ingrown hair scarring

- Contains patented ingredient Chromabright

 

Be aware - There are reports of counterfeit skincare products being sold on some marketplaces - Read Here
 
Dermacare Direct is an official stockists of all the brands stocked, and offers a Genuine Product Guarantee.
 

 

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PFB Vanish ULTRA

This product offers a triple-action formula that tackles ingrown hairs, razor burn, and dark spots. It is enhanced with antioxidants for added protection against free radicals, and includes Chromabright along with three additional brighteners and antioxidants to improve skin tone.

The PFB Vanish ULTRA is an outstanding anti-aging product. It not only helps with ingrown hairs, razor burn, and dark spots but also includes antioxidants which protect your skin from damage that can cause aging. So, using PFB Vanish ULTRA can improve your skin tone and help keep your skin looking younger.

Suitable for: Treating and preventing Intense ingrown hairs and post-inflammatory pigmentation, with additional brightening and protective properties.

PFB Vanish ULTRA 93G
FREE Gift
£35.00

- Same ingredients as the PFB Vanish Chromabright but added antioxidants, mushroom, plankton, white water lily

- Eliminates Ingrown Hairs and dark spots

- Provides Anti-Oxidant Protection

 

WARNING - There are reports of counterfeit skincare products being sold on some marketplaces - Read Here
 
Dermacare Direct are official stockists of all the brands we sell and offer a Genuine Product Guarantee.
 

 

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How to enhance treatment: Use PFB Vanish Liquid Luffa Scrub twice a week prior to application to help remove dead skin cells and improve product absorption.

PFB

How to Apply PFB Vanish

Applicator: The unique roll-on applicator is ideal for use on any area of the face and body (underarms, bikini area). Avoid use on feet, elbows, or knees.

Initial Use: Start by applying every other day until your skin adjusts, then switch to daily use.

Application Process: Apply to clean skin by swiping once over the affected area, then massage until fully absorbed. Follow with a moisturiser once the gel is dry. Avoid rolling back and forth to prevent over-application, which can cause stinging, redness, dryness, peeling, and discoloration.

Note: Mild flaking is normal due to the exfoliating ingredients. Always apply sunscreen to exposed skin during the day. Do not use deodorant under the arms when using Chromabright & Ultra.

Where to Apply

PFB Vanish can be used on the face, body, underarms, and bikini area, but not on intimate areas.

How Long Does PFB Vanish Take to Work?

PFB Vanish products can start showing results within 24 to 48 hours of initial application. Users of PFB Vanish Chromabright and Ultra have reported skin lightening effects in as little as six to eight weeks.

Is PFB Vanish Safe?

Yes, PFB Vanish products are FDA-approved and safe for all genders, ages, and skin types. However, do not apply to irritated or broken skin. Avoid using PFB Vanish, PFB+Chromabright, or PFB Ultra if you are pregnant or nursing due to the salicylic acid content.

Where to Buy PFB Vanish

Dermacare Direct is an authorized retailer of PFB Vanish products. Purchasing from non-authorized sellers can result in counterfeit products. Dermacare Direct guarantees that all PFB Vanish products come directly from the manufacturer, ensuring you receive genuine products.

Other prevention techniques

Preventing ingrown hairs involves proper hair removal, ingrown hairs managing, and regular skincare routines:

  1. Follow the correct shaving techniques:
    • Always shave in the direction of hair growth.
    • Use shaving cream or gel to reduce friction.
    • Replace your razor regularly to avoid using dull blades.
    • Shave during or after a shower when skin and hair are softer.
    • Skincare Routine.
  2. Exfoliate regularly
    • Use products containing glycolic or salicylic acid.
    • Apply a post-shave product with salicylic acid to keep pores clear and reduce inflammation.
  3. Choose the right razor
    • Opt for razors with multiple blades, as they reduce skin irritation by allowing a closer shave with fewer strokes. Always rinse the blade between strokes to prevent bacterial buildup.

Consult Dermacare Direct Experts for Professional Skincare Advice

In conclusion, ingrown hairs can be a persistent and uncomfortable issue, but with the right approach, they can be effectively managed. Regular exfoliation, proper shaving techniques, and the use of targeted treatments like PFB Vanish can significantly reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs, leaving your skin smooth and healthy. Remember, consistency is key in both prevention and treatment.

If you're struggling with how to get rid of an ingrown hair or have any concerns about your skincare routine, don't hesitate to contact the experts at Dermacare Direct. Our professional team is here to offer personalized advice and consultation to help you achieve the best possible results for your skin. Reach out to us today and let us guide you towards clearer, healthier skin.

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