Ingrown hair infection

Hair on the head can be your crowning glory but anywhere else on the body, it might be embarrassing, unhygienic or simply, un-aesthetic. Hair removal is thus necessary by hygiene standards and beauty needs.

Shaving or waxing of body hair can be a method of removal of hair. In most cases they are effective and cause no side-effects whatsoever. But sometimes, if done tardily, they can cause the hair to be cut unevenly or with rough edges too close to the skin. This causes the hair to grow backwards or inwards, leading to a condition that is both unsightly and painful. Ingrown hair infection or Folliculitis, can occur both in males and females but individuals with curly or coarse hair are more likely to get this condition.

Human hair grows from follicles inside the skin, with a tapered end. While cutting, the hair can form rough edges which can cause ingrown hair. This leads to a blister like formation on the skin, which is often red in appearance and is often filled with pus. Discomfort can range from the area being itchy or tender, to intense pain.

Ingrown hair occurs in most cases as a result of shaving or waxing. It can be also caused by restrictive clothing. In men, it is mostly seen on the face, where facial hair is shaven regularly. In women, arms, legs and the pubic area are most common areas where ingrown hair can form. While shaving and waxing are the main causes of ingrown hair, other factors can also contribute to the occurrence. Poor skin care can cause dirt and oil to form a sticky layer on the skin which makes the skin uneven. Shaving or waxing on this type of skin may lead to uneven cuts and eventually, ingrown hair. High amount of chlorine is also found to be one of the causes, as it also tends to make the skin rough. Swimming in waters with inordinately high amounts of chlorine can also lead to this condition. Also some beauty products like some skin creams can block the hair follicles and cause dirt to gather around. Hair does not grow properly and can start growing back into the skin.

While anyone can be afflicted with this condition, it is established that some demographical groups are more prone to this condition. Individuals of African origin have curly hair and are thus more prone. Warm and balmy climate can also add up to the occurrence of this condition, as skin sweats a lot and can accumulate dirt and oils. Also, excess body weight can add to the chances of getting this condition. Individuals prone to oily skin or acne are also said to be more at risk.

While it is a small problem, it can lead to unnecessary discomfort and unsightly appearance. It is best to take steps to avoid the occurrence of ingrown hair infections.

• Keeping the skin clean is the best way to avoid this skin affliction.
• Bathe regularly using mild soaps. A loofah or a bathing brush can be used to exfoliate the skin. This helps to remove dead skin along with oil and dirt, which can trap the hair into growing inwards.
• If using a regular razor, make sure that it is clean and the blade is not rusted. Cuts from shaving can lead to infected hair growths if the blade is not clean. Changing the blade regularly is also a must.
• An electric shaver maybe a better option to shave, as it does not shave too closely to the skin.
• While waxing, ensure that all articles used are hygienically handled and all metal objects sterilized.

Preventive steps to avoid an ingrown hair infection are simple and easily managed in our day to day routine. But in spite of these steps, if an infection does occur, there are ways and means simple enough which can effectively cure them.

Most ingrown hairs get cured by themselves, as the skin gets cleaned and scrubbed. But an infected area may need attention. The easiest way to clear up an infection is to use an antibiotic cream. This may or may not be accompanied by oral medication. Oral medication is only prescribed if the infection is severe or recurring frequently. A dermatologist may also prescribe anti fungal creams or pills, if the infection is found to be fungal in nature.

To avoid an infection, one may remove the ingrown hair before it gets infected. But this has to done with infinite care, as the removal process itself can cause an infection if not done hygienically. The first rule of avoiding an infection of the ingrown hair is to not pick at it or touch it with your nails. The hair can gently be gently plucked out with sterilized tweezers. Alternatively, if a particular hair or area is prone to ingrown hair, a more permanent solution may be in order. Hair removal creams can be used to remove the hair from the area. This however, is not a long term solution. Electrolysis can be a permanent hair removal solution to the problem.