Ingrown hairs can be very deceptive. They resemble pimples on one end due to a raised pore and a white bump on top. On the other hand, they consist of a single hair strand hidden under multiple layers of skin. They can be large and quite unpleasant, or little and barely detectable, depending on the circumstance. Regardless of how they seem, getting rid of them might be challenging, especially if you’re the picky type.
1. What does an ingrown hair mean?
An ingrown hair can present as a tiny grayish patch under a few skin layers or as a larger reddish-colored area that may also have a white lump on it. For those who are really agitated and furious, it might be equivalent to a nickel. You can usually feel the softness of an ingrown hair by gently pressing on it or around its margins. If it feels firm, has a rough texture, and is only red, it’s probably not an ingrown. An allergic response triggered by waxing seems to be pretty rare in all my years of experience. If it did occur, though, it would most likely show up as little, red pimples limited to the waxed areas or even as white pimples that resembled welts.
2. How should ingrown hairs be removed?
Leaving it alone and allowing it to heal naturally is the best course of action. There is another way to expedite the healing process that is basically the same as popping a zit, but I suggest leaving it to the professionals. If the pain and redness are bothering you, there are ointments that can aid in the healing process and relieve the symptoms.
3. When should I go to a doctor?
If the ingrown has been there for more than a few waxes and appears to be getting bigger and causing pain from inflammation, you may want to consult a dermatologist or possibly your gynecologist (if it happens in the pelvic area). A prescription for antibiotics may be required. After then, it usually vanishes really soon.