Ingrown pubic hair: How to prevent ingrown hairs down there

Ingrowns down there: what are they?

 

Ingrown pubic hairs occur when your pubic hair grows into the skin rather than naturally growing out to the surface. This can follow with:

 

• Small red or pus-filled bumps
• Itchiness in the area around the ingrown hair
• Swelling or irritation
• Darkened skin around the ingrown hair, also known as hyperpigmentation
  

What causes ingrown pubic hair?

 

Ingrowns down there can form due to several reasons. Some of the most common causes of ingrown hairs include:

 

• Hair removal: Shaving, waxing or threading your pubic hair could cause the hair to grow back into the skin. 
• Clothing: Tight clothes can cause friction, trapping hairs under the skin.
• Skin type: Dry skin or dead skin cells can clog hair follicles, preventing hair from growing naturally.
• Hair type: People with curly or coarse hair down there are more likely to deal with ingrown hairs.

 

Ingrown hairs are common and generally pose no cause for concern. However, if you notice that your ingrown hair becomes cystic or infected, seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can confirm if there is a bigger problem.

Treating ingrown hairs: How to stop ingrown hairs after shaving

 

If you’re ever wondering, ‘how to shave without getting ingrown hairs’, here are some tips for treating ingrowns down there without irritating the skin:

 

1. Exfoliation: Exfoliation is great for removing the dead skin cells that could be clogging your hair follicles. Use a mild exfoliant on the affected area, being careful not to rub too hard.
2. Use a warm compress: Apply a warm compress such as a wet towel to the affected area. This can soften the skin and help the ingrown hair to grow naturally. Even better, shower in advance and then shave for the best results.
3. Apply an anti-inflammatory product: After shaving, you can apply anti-inflammatory products such as aloe vera. Aloe vera is a medicinal plant that is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Applying aloe vera to the affected area can calm the skin and reduce irritation.¹
4. Avoid further irritation: Avoid shaving or waxing when you have an ingrown hair in your pubic area, as it can cause further irritation.
   

Ingrown pubic hair prevention: How to stop getting ingrown hairs

 

Now that you know how to shave without getting ingrown hairs, let’s look at the essential steps you can take to prevent ingrowns after shaving. Here is what you need to do:

 

1. Prep the pubic area before hair removal
   
   If you want to learn how to shave without getting ingrown hairs, preparation is a key step you must take. Before picking up that shaver, follow these steps to prevent ingrowns after shaving:
   
   • Cleanse the area by using a fragrance-free soap and warm water. This removes any oil or dirt, which can also help prevent bumps after shaving. 
   • Overall, it is best to leave shaving to the end of your shower routine to maximise hydration, and so the warm water softens your skin. 
   • Use a sharp and skin-friendly electric shaver, like the Philips OneBlade Intimate.
   
   
2. Shave carefully
   
   If you want to shave your pubic area, lather the area with a sensitive shaving cream or gel. Then pull the skin taut and shave in the direction of hair growth. Avoid shaving over existing ingrown hairs, as this could further damage the skin.
   
   For a fresh, hygienic and comfortable shave, the Philips OneBlade Intimate is the most skin-friendly tool for protecting your most sensitive areas while you shave. With its SkinProtect Blade, the OneBlade Intimate easily glides across your skin, protecting it from irritation.
   
   
3. Shaving aftercare
   
   After shaving, rinse the area with lukewarm water and pat dry with a towel. To moisturise the skin, apply a lightweight, unscented moisturiser or after-shave product.
   
   
4. Wear loose-fitting clothing
   
   Avoid wearing tight clothing such as underwear or leggings and instead wear more loose-fitting, breathable clothing. 
   
   
5. Consider alternative hair removal
   
   If you find that you are still getting ingrowns down there after shaving, it may be worth trying out different hair removal methods such as hair removal creams, IPL, or laser hair removal. Shaving is not for everyone, and you may find that an alternative hair removal method is less irritating to your skin.

 

Ingrown pubic hair can be frustrating, but it is also a common issue. By following these preventative tips, you are one step closer to smooth, ingrown-free skin. Looking to elevate your exfoliation routine? Check out our guide to exfoliation.

 

Sources:

¹ The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review, NIH