How to Get Rid of an Ingrown Hair: 6 Tips & Treatments

How to get rid of an ingrown hair involves removing dead skin cells and keeping the skin clean to help the hair grow out properly. These hairs occur when the hair curls back into the skin, which can lead to irritation and inflammation.

Common ways for how to get rid of an ingrown hair include washing the skin with warm water, gentle exfoliation, and using moisturizers to soften the area. In some cases, topical treatments like antibiotics or retinoids may be used to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.

More advanced options, such as laser hair removal, may help prevent recurring ingrown hairs in people who experience them frequently. When symptoms like pain, swelling, or fever appear, medical treatment with oral medications may be necessary to manage complications.

Ingrown hair treatment

Some ways to get rid of an ingrown hair include: 

1. Washing the skin with warm water 

Washing the skin daily with warm water and a mild soap helps open up the pores, which can make it easier for ingrown hairs to surface.

However, you should not use a needle at home, even if it is sterile, because this can increase the risk of infection and scarring.

According to the NHS, a healthcare professional should remove an ingrown hair if it is painful, infected, or keeps coming back, rather than trying to remove it at home with a needle or by picking at it. 

2. Using an ointment, cream, or gel 

If an ingrown hair becomes inflamed, a healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic ointment, cream, or gel, such as neomycin, gentamicin, or mupirocin, to fight bacteria in the hair follicles and relieve itching and pain.

A healthcare provider may also recommend a topical retinoid, such as tretinoin, to chemically exfoliate the skin, help release the ingrown hair, and fade any dark spots it caused. These products are usually applied twice a day for 5 to 7 days after bathing, as directed by the prescriber.

3. Exfoliating the skin

Exfoliating the skin using gentle circular motions helps remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells, which can make it easier for hairs to grow out through the skin. You can exfoliate with a simple scrub made from almond oil mixed with sugar.

You should only exfoliate once a week. Exfoliation is not recommended if an ingrown hair has progressed to folliculitis, as it can worsen inflammation and swelling.

4. Using moisturizer 

Using a general moisturizer, such as jojoba oil, coconut oil, or almond oil, on the affected area can help prevent dryness and soften the skin around the ingrown hair. This makes it easier for the hair to break through the surface. For best results, apply moisturizer every day after bathing.

5. Having laser hair removal

Laser hair removal or IPL (intense pulsed light) hair removal are great options for helping get rid of ingrown hairs. These treatments destroy the hair at the root and reduce future hair growth, which can be especially helpful for people who often struggle with ingrown hairs and folliculitis.

Laser hair removal should be guided by a dermatologist, who can evaluate your skin and hair type and recommend the most appropriate method for you.

6. Taking medication 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, folliculitis can develop when hair follicles are damaged and germs enter the skin, and some people may need treatment such as an antibiotic to clear the infection.

A dermatologist may prescribe oral antibiotics, such as erythromycin or cephalexin, taken 3 to 4 times a day for up to 10 days. This helps control the infection and reduce symptoms like redness, discharge, and itching.

Possible complications

Normally, an ingrown hair is not serious and can be treated at home. However, sometimes it needs a closer medical evaluation. Signs that should be checked by a dermatologist include:

• Increasing pain and swelling around the ingrown hair, which may indicate a buildup of pus

• Fever, especially a temperature over 100.4°F (38°C), which can be a sign of infection

• Ingrown hairs that occur frequently

In these situations, you should see your primary care provider or a dermatologist for treatment.