// by Harry
Have you ever woken up to the horror of a scar on your face? Most of us have. The first thing that comes to your mind is that it may be a pimple or a blackhead.
But when you realize it’s not one among the two options mentioned above, you may suspect it as ingrown hair. This relatively common condition can leave behind deep scars which render many people self-conscious.
Although it does no harm and most scars are self-limiting and fade without any intervention, there are a few options by which you can reduce the appearance of ingrown hairs scars. However, it may be wise to consult a dermatologist regarding the scars if they persist for a longer time.
Do you know that the hair curls upon itself and grows inside the skin is known as ingrown hair ?. It is more common in those people whose hair is coarse hair and curly hair.
Sometimes the ingrown hair follicle may get infected, it is also known as folliculitis. They may vary in size from a small pin-head to a first size ball growing inside the skin.
The most common areas where the ingrown hairs are seen are mostly the areas where a razor is applied to shave the hair. It may also appear in places where you wax out your hair. Although it can appear anywhere, the most common sites are:
It a small scar that may be red and inflamed, almost the size of a pin-head which remains on the skin even after the hair growth is removed.
An ingrown hair tends to irritate the skin. It results in a red, raised bump or group of bumps that look similar to a pimple. Sometimes it can produce a painful, boil-like sore.
If there are multiple ingrowths, they may become itchy and uncomfortable. Sometimes there may be a formation of pus inside these bumps. You may see the hair which has grown inside.
The scars of ingrown hair may last up to years especially if they are associated with hormonal imbalance. The sharpened hair ends may remain stationary or may continue to grow inwards. It may be self-limiting, or it may continue to grow and accumulate more hair.
You can remove these ingrowths quickly with several methods. Some of them have been listed below:
If none of these methods help in getting rid of the ingrown hair or if it lasts for more than 3 months it is advisable to visit a dermatologist. Also, if it gets infected with oozing of pus, or causes a considerable amount of pain, it is better to get treated by a specialist.
The doctor will make a small cut on the affected area with a sterile scalpel or needle to release the tension and drain the pus. They may even prescribe few medications like
The most effective way to prevent ingrown hairs is to abstain from shaving, waxing, or using any hash methods for the removal of extra growth. Both men and women should as far as possible avoid the razor.
However, there are a few tips to reduce the chances of occurrence even while you shave.
Lemon juice helps to lighten the dark scars. Ingrown hairs can cause pigmentation. Vitamin C in the lemon is essential for wound healing. The bleaching property of the lemon may be useful in reducing the scars.
Soak a gauze piece or some cotton in lemon juice and apply it over the scars. Let the juice dry, and then rinse it with lukewarm water. Repeat the process every day till the scar fades away.
The ingrown hair clogs the skin pores due to mechanical as well as inflammatory processes. Aloe Vera helps to loosen up the skin and reduce inflammation, especially during the early stages when the scar is forming. It also helps to increase the elasticity of the new tissue
Use your fingertips to scoop out a layer of fresh Aloe. You can use pure Aloe Vera gel too. Apply it over the scar and leave it to dry. Repeat every day.
Green tea is a very reliable method to get rid of ingrown hair scars. Green tea has special antioxidant properties which aid in the healing of injured tissues. It may also be used to fade the scars that appear over the skin.
Dip a bag of green tea, preferably an organic brand, in boiling water for around 3 minutes. Then remove the bag from the water, squeeze out excess water and gently place the bag over the scar for about 10-15 minutes. You can repeat the procedure 3-4 times a day.
Alternatively, you can also dip a clean towel in a cup of hot green tea and apply it to the scar for 10-15 minutes.
Lavender essential oil helps to heal ingrown hair scars. Lavender oil is presumed to have some anti-inflammatory properties which fasten the healing of scar tissue.
To use lavender oil, take 2-3 drops of lavender oil and mix it in 2 tablespoons of castor oil. Rub this mixture over the scars and gently massage the area. Repeat the process at least 2-3 times a day for faster results.
Ingrown hair scars can be managed effectively by the above-mentioned procedures and home remedies. If required you should consult a doctor. Most of the scars heal by themselves and do not require any treatment.
Avoid touching them or squeezing them as this may lead to infection. Also, ensure that you expose those parts to sunlight. It has anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce the scars and also prevent the formation of new scars.
Looking for immediate answers to your questions?
This is a very useful Call To Action in the “After Entry” widget area. You can put whatever you’d like in it, and change the background color to whatever you’d like.
The content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a certified healthcare professional for personalized recommendations
Contact our office today.
Contact Us →