Little red and white bumps from ingrown hairs are a nuisance no one likes to deal with. Some skin types are more prone to ingrown hairs, and may require a dermatologist's care to avoid bumps completely. Other skin types respond well to simple home remedies. Even people who struggle with frequent ingrown hairs can usually receive some benefit from changes in personal care that can be done without a doctor's assistance.

General skin care

Gentle exfoliation done twice a week can do wonders for bumpy skin. Exfoliation usually involves using an abrasive cleanser to scour away dead skin cells and clean out clogged pores and hair follicles. There are a number of commercial cleansers available. In general, it is best to use a gentler formula on the face, and a slightly more abrasive formula on other parts of the body.

Objects such as a loofa, exfoliating pad, or scratchy scrubby can also be used. When exfoliating, be sure you are not damaging your skin. Exfoliation that is painful, causes skin to turn red or puffy, or leaves scratches is too rough.

If there are already a number of ingrown hair bumps present, it may take a couple of weeks of regular exfoliation to remove the bumps completely. Give it a little time, and avoid picking at the bumps. Picking can lead to scarring.

Avoid using heavy lotions or oils. While light lotions can be great for keeping skin moisturized and healthy, heavy lotions and oils can clog hair follicles and lead to more bumps.

Avoid constrictive clothing. Wearing tight clothing can sometimes increase the chances of ingrown hair bumps. It is a good idea to wear more loose-fitting clothing, at least over areas prone to bumps.

Stopping bumps from the inside out

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids. Well hydrated skin is less likely to be prone to a number of problems, including ingrown hairs. Eating plenty of fruit, especially citrus, can also help your skin to be healthier and more resistant to ingrown hair bumps.

Shaving

Shaving increases the chances of ingrown hair bumps because all the shaved hairs must grow back through the follicle again. To reduce the number of bumps that occur from shaving, always use a sharp razor. People tend to press harder with a dull razor, which damages the skin a bit more, making it harder for hair to push through the surface when it regrows. Dull razors can also lead to a rougher-edged hair, which is more likely to catch on small irregularities in the skin.

Always shave in the direction the hair grows. Shaving against hair growth may seem to give a closer shave, but it sometimes pushes the stub of hair into the skin or bends it slightly, increasing the chance it will become ingrown.

Use a light astringent, such as witch hazel or salycic acid after every shave. Astringents can help remove dirt, excess skin cells, and rough edges around freshly shaved hairs. This allows the hairs to grow back in more smoothly. Be sure you select a light astringent. An astringent that is too concentrated may cause skin irritation, redness, or a rash.

Professional assistance

For some skin types, ingrown hair bumps may still occur with some regularity. For instance, an excess of keratin in the skin can lead to more problems with ingrown hair bumps. If this or another problem exists, there may be something a dermatologist can do to assist you. Visit with a doctor, and be honest about what you have tried and how well it has worked. A solution may be right around the corner.

Learn more about this author, Kayanne Nelson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Avoiding ingrown hair bumps?
We want to hear your view. Write now!