If you’re one of the many people who suffer from ingrown hairs, you know that they can be not only painful but also unsightly. And, if you’ve ever had an ingrown hair that becomes infected, you may also be left with a scar.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help get rid of ingrown hair scars.
Two ways to Get rid of ingrown hair scars
Silicone gel or sheet
This method is often used to help heal scars from burns. You can find silicone gel or sheets at most pharmacies.
To use, simply clean the area around the scar with soap and water. Then, apply the gel or sheet to the scar. You may need to tape it in place. Leave it on for at least 12 hours a day. You should see a difference in the appearance of the scar within a few weeks.
Topical retinoid
A topical retinoid is a vitamin A cream that can help to improve the appearance of scars. It works by increasing collagen production, which helps to fill in scars.
To use, apply a pea-sized amount of cream to the scar. You can do this once or twice a day. Within a few weeks, you should see the scar start to fade.
If you don’t see results with either of these methods, you may want to talk to your doctor about other options, such as laser therapy or surgery.
How to Prevent ingrown hairs from scarring
Of course, the best way to deal with ingrown hair scars is to prevent them in the first place. To do this, take the following steps:
• Exfoliate regularly. This helps to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to ingrown hairs.
• Use a sharp razor. A dull razor can cause irritation and lead to ingrown hairs.
• Don’t shave too close. Shaving too close to the skin can also cause irritation and lead to ingrown hairs.
• Moisturize. Moisturizing your skin helps to keep it healthy and less likely to develop ingrown hairs.
How to deal with Infected ingrown hair
If you do get ingrown hair that becomes infected, it’s important to see a doctor. An infected ingrown hair can cause a painful abscess. If the abscess ruptures, it can lead to a scar.
To treat an infected ingrown hair, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. They may also drain the abscess. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the abscess.
If you have infected ingrown hair, it’s important to keep the area clean. Gently wash the area with soap and water. Avoid picking or scratching at the ingrown hair, as this can make the infection worse.
If you have ingrown hair that’s causing pain or swelling, see a doctor. They can help to determine the best course of treatment.
Keloids and pigmentation changes
In some cases, ingrown hair can lead to a keloid. This is a raised scar that can be larger than the original wound. Keloids can be painful and unsightly.
Pigmentation changes can also occur with ingrown hair. The area around the ingrown hair may become darker or lighter. This is more common in people with darker skin.
If you develop a keloid or pigmentation change, you may need treatment from a dermatologist. Treatment options include steroid injections, laser therapy, and surgery.
When to see a doctor
If you have ingrown hair that’s causing pain, swelling, or bleeding, see a doctor. They can help to determine the best course of treatment. An infected ingrown hair can lead to a painful abscess. If the abscess ruptures, it can lead to a scar.
If you have a keloid or pigmentation change, you may need treatment from a dermatologist. Treatment options include steroid injections, laser therapy, and surgery.
