Ingrown hairs are such a common issue, especially for those who shave or wax regularly. It can cause bumps to form when hair grows back, causing irritation and sometimes infection. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent and treat ingrown hairs, with body scrubs playing a key role.
What Are Ingrown Hairs?
An ingrown hair occurs when hairs grow back but are blocked from coming through the surface and instead curls back down or grow sideways into the skin. You’ll notice that it usually causes inflammation, redness, pain, and small bumps on the skin, which can even become infected.
They often happen after hair removal routines like shaving, waxing, or plucking, and they are more frequent in people with curly or coarse hair. Proper skincare, including exfoliation and moisturizing, can help prevent and treat ingrown hairs.
How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs?
- Regular Exfoliation: Exfoliating your skin with a body scrub is one of the best ways to treat ingrown hairs. By exfoliating you remove dead skin cells that can clog hair follicles and cause ingrown hairs. For best results, use a gentle body scrub with fine granules or chemical exfoliants like glycolic or salicylic acid. Aim to exfoliate 1-2 times a week to keep your skin smooth and prevent hairs from becoming trapped as they grow.
- Practice Proper Shaving Techniques:
- Use a Sharp Razor: A dull blade can cause hair to grow back incorrectly. Replace your razor regularly.
- Shave in the Direction of Hair Growth: This minimizes the risk of hair curling back into the skin.
- Use Shaving Cream: A good shaving cream reduces friction and protects the skin.
- Moisturize: Keeping your skin hydrated helps maintain its elasticity and reduces the chance of hairs becoming trapped. For best results, begin adding moisture in the shower with a hydrating bath and shower oil and then follow up with an oil or body butter once you’re out. We love the Bodyography Body Oil because you can use it in the shower as well as once dry to enhance moisture.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Tight clothes can irritate the skin and cause ingrown hairs. Opt for loose-fitting garments, especially after shaving or waxing.
Why You Should Incorporate A Body Scrub into Your Routine
Body scrubs can be a game-changer in preventing and treating ingrown hairs especially when used as a part of your regular routine.
Our Top Body Care Picks:
Bodyography Spa Body Scrub
Bodyography Spa Body Butter
Bodyography Spa Bath & Body Oil
Body Scrub Tips:
- Exfoliate Before Shaving: Use a scrub before shaving to remove dead skin cells and prepare the skin.
- Be Gentle: Avoid aggressive scrubbing. Use gentle, circular motions to exfoliate.
Follow Up with Moisturizer: After exfoliating, apply a moisturizer to soothe the skin and maintain hydration.
