Ingrown hairs are sadly a consequence or trying to achieve smooth skin. But they don’t have to be!
Natasha (our Head of Education and Senior Therapist) has detailed a few simple steps that you can follow to ensure those pesky ingrown stay away.
But first.. what actually are ingrown hairs?
An ingrown hair is when the hair grows back into the skin instead of growing outwards. When this happens, it causes the hair to be trapped and develop an itchy red bump that can be uncomfortable.
Why do we get ingrown hairs?
The reason hair removal (and shaving in particular) can cause ingrown hairs, is that when the hair is cut the end is sharper and therefore easier to pierce the skin. It’s more common in people with coarse or curly hair, as the hair grows back inwards rather than outwards. Dead skin can also clog the follicle and block the hair from coming out.
How to stop ingrown hairs
Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! If you don’t already, then you really need to start! Regular exfoliation (twice a week) will remove any bacteria and oil residue from the follicle, so the pore will no longer be blocked and will mean the hair can be free to take its natural course.
Do not use a mitt Any accessory that has been sitting in the bath or shower is unhygienic and will gather bacteria. We recommend using a scrub on its own without an accessory (see next tip!). If you do really want to use a mitt, then we recommend buying two pairs and using them on rotation (washing them after every single use). Loofers don’t work at all, so don’t even bother with these!
Use an exfoliation scrub on dry skin. When you use a scrub on very wet skin then the scrub will just glide off, will not be effective, and you see results. Use the scrub on dry or lightly damp skin in repetitive circular motions to get the blood circulation going.
Avoid harsh scrubs on sensitive areas. Avoid using harsh exfoliation and scrubs on your chest, face, backs of knees and anywhere that has a varicose vein or is extra sensitive. Use the scrub slowly and gently on wet skin on these areas, and suggest an extra sensitive product like this light and creamy scrub by Lycon.
Continue using your salon recommended products, even with a hairy area! In lockdown and with hairier skin, it’s tempting to think that you don’t need to bother with exfoliation, but this isn’t true! Continue to exfoliate as part of your weekly routine, and you’ll see the benefits when you do come back in for your wax appointment. We recommend this anti-ingrown solution by Lycon.
Tea Tree is your friend as it has antibacterial properties and will prevent the ingrown hairs from growing. Why not add it to your routine as a shower gel like this one from Lycon? Or even post-shower as a body lotion!
The Vintage Salon Team x