The What and Why of Ingrown Hairs
Growing a beard can have its high and lows, but unfortunately, since facial hair can be quite hard and sharp, it can also come with the unwelcome side effect of ingrown hairs, also known as beard bumps. These are not only embarrassing but can be incredibly painful and can even lead to infection if not taken care of properly.
But first, what exactly is an ingrown hair? An ingrown hair is when a hair is not able to penetrate the surface of the skin and instead curls around and grows back down into the skin, resulting in a small red bump. This can be caused by a range of things, but mostly through daily wear and tear as well as over-styling your beard.
According to Dr. Jackie Torney-Purtill, a dermatologist based in New York City, “In normal physiology, when a hair follicle is gone, a new one develops. But when hairs are repeatedly traumatically injured from an external source, such as shaving or even tweezing too aggressively, this can be damaging to the follicular stem cells and their ability to generate new hair.”
How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs
When it comes to getting rid of beard ingrown hairs, prevention is definitely key. Making sure to not only groom your beard correctly but also use the correct products can help you steer clear of beard bumps. So, if you’re looking to get rid of those ingrown hairs, here are a few tips to get your beard looking its best.
First of all, make sure to thoroughly wash your face and beard with a gentle cleanser. The right cleanser can go a long way in helping to keep your beard free of bacteria and other impurities which can lead to the formation of ingrown hairs. Look for a cleanser specifically designed for men’s facial skin to ensure your beard is both clean and well moisturized.
For optimal beard care, make sure to also use a beard oil on a regular basis. This can help to both nourish the skin as well as soften the hairs to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. Additionally, try to opt for beard trimmers instead of razor blades as they are much gentler on the skin.
Identifying and Treating Ingrown Hairs
However, if despite your best efforts you do develop beard ingrown hairs, the best thing to do is to identify and isolate them. To do this, you can use tweezers to pluck out any ingrown hairs that are visible, but always make sure to do this gently.
In more severe cases, professional help may be necessary. Consult with a dermatologist who will be able to provide treatment such as chemical peels, laser treatments or even surgery if needed.
If your ingrown hairs become infected, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Ingrown hairs can cause bumps, redness, swelling and pus-like discharge, all signs that infection has occurred. If left untreated infection can spread and cause even further complications.
Exfoliation for Prevention
To help prevent the chance of ingrown hairs forming in the future, a good idea is to exfoliate your chin and beard area regularly. Exfoliation removes the buildup of dead skin and dirt that can clog pores and lead to ingrown hairs. Look for an exfoliator specifically designed for facial skin, and use it two to three times a week.
Another great tip is to avoid overly tight hairstyles such as ponytails and tight buns, as these can put too much pressure on the facial skin and lead to irritation and cause ingrown hairs.
Finally, make sure to use the right products when it comes to clearing away stubble after shaving. Look for an aftershave that contains salicylic acid or glycolic acid to help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation and redness.
Controlling and Reducing Irritation
Beard wax can also be a great tool when it comes to keeping your facial hair in control and preventing irritation and ingrown hairs. Choose a wax that has natural ingredients such as beeswax or shea butter, to help condition the beard and prevent ingrown hairs.
When it comes to trimming, the key is to make sure to use the correct tools to ensure a smooth shave. Always opt for a sharp razor and make sure to never pull the skin when removing stubble. Additionally, use light, short strokes to avoid irritating the skin.
Lastly, make sure to moisturize the skin daily. Invest in a good quality moisturizer specifically designed for the face. This can help to lightly exfoliate the skin and reduce the chance of ingrown hairs in the future.
The Right Clothing
Another tip to preventing ingrown hairs is by wearing the right clothing. Opt for light layers that won’t put too much pressure on the skin on your chin. Avoid stiff fabrics and hats which can put pressure on the skin and contribute to irritation.
It’s also important to keep the skin around the face clean to remove dirt and oil that can become trapped in the facial hair and cause irritation. Use a gentle facial cleanser or an antibacterial soap once or twice a week to prevent any buildup of impurities which can lead to ingrown hairs.
Finally, don’t forget the power of hydration. Drinking plenty of water each day can help to keep your skin hydrated which is essential for a healthy, smooth beard.
Managing Stress
High levels of stress can also contribute to the formation of ingrown hairs. Stress causes an increase in the production of cortisol, a hormone which can be damaging to your skin and increase the chances of irritation and ingrown hairs.
It’s also worth noting that certain medications can also increase your risk of developing ingrown hairs. Certain drugs such as steroids and antibiotics can affect the skin and cause inflammation which can lead to ingrown hairs, so make sure to consult with your doctor if you think this is the case.
Managing stress and managing medications is key to keeping your skin looking and feeling its absolute best and to keep ingrown hairs away for good.
Conclusion: The Impact of Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs can have a significant impact on your facial appearance as well as your overall confidence. Taking the time to look after your skin and facial hair can make all the difference in terms of reducing the risk of ingrown hairs forming and making sure your facial hair looks its best.
By following the tips outlined here, you can help reduce the risk of developing beard bumps and keep your skin healthy and free of ingrown hairs.