An ingrown hair is a hair that has started to grow back after being removed that curves under the surface of the skin. Ingrown hairs are bothersome, painful and can be visually displeasing. With warmer days imminent, wanting to remove body hair is a choice that many will make. Whether it be on the face, under the arms or surrounding the legs, there are methods that can achieve hairless skin. However, it’s important to be careful when removing hair so that the skin won’t be irritated or ingrown. Below are some important steps for hair removal.
Exfoliate the skin
Regular exfoliation (at least once a week) helps prevent the buildup of dead skin cells that sit on the surface and clog hair follicles. Exfoliating skin before removing any hair present is a crucial step. This can be done while the skin is dry or wet. To exfoliate dry skin, you’ll want to use a tool that was designed for exfoliating skin like a brush. Use your tool by pulling it across the skin in circular motions. To maximize the impact of exfoliating wet skin, wait towards the end of your bath or shower and exfoliate using the same motions as listed above. You can also try an exfoliating body scrub with your hands or a cloth.
Shaving hair
When shaving, it’s important to keep in mind that most razor blades are not designed for long term use. An electric shaver will not give as close a shave as disposable ones, but can be used as a step prior to a disposable razor. Shaving should also be done with a shaving cream or soap to provide a barrier between the blade and your skin. Be sure that your shaving cream is also alcohol free.
It can be tempting to pull on skin when shaving to make the surface area smoother, but you’ll run into issues later if you let the area go while moving the razor. Try to shave against the direction of hair growth before against it when shaving more sensitive areas.
Waxing
The area being waxed should be clean, exfoliated and dry beforehand. There’s wax strips, hard wax, sugar wax and even hair removal creams. Waxing lasts the longest next to laser hair removal. One mistake that is often made after waxing is failing to care for the skin after, leading to ingrown hairs. Remember to continue to exfoliate in the days after hair has been waxed.
Removing an ingrown hair
If you find yourself with ingrown hair, there are ways to remove it properly. If the hair is trapped under the skin, find a sterile needle and put it under the hair and lift it so it comes back over the skin. Wait until the hair is above the surface of the skin to remove it closest to the base with tweezers. Avoid removing an ingrown hair that is deep under the surface by prodding and squeezing it, as this can introduce bacteria. Treat the skin after by putting a wet washcloth for a few minutes.
After hair removal
A post-shave oil and lotion are both great ways to look after your skin after removing hair. This also ensures that the surface of the skin is hydrated and prevents dead skin from building up. Try to use a product that is fragrance free to combat irritation.
What are your best hair removal tips? Tweet us and let us know @VALLEYmag
1 Comment