Ingrown hairs can be both painful and ugly. These bothersome hairs that grow back into the skin instead of rising to the surface can cause redness, irritation, and, in some cases, infection. Many people look for effective treatments for ingrown hairs.
Witch hazel is a natural treatment that is frequently mentioned in debates. In this article, we will look at the potential benefits of witch hazel in the treatment of ingrown hairs.
Does Witch Hazel Help With Ingrown Hairs?
Yes, witch hazel can help relieve some of the pain associated with ingrown hairs. Witch hazel is a natural astringent derived from the leaves and bark of the Hamamelis virginiana plant. It contains anti-inflammatory, relaxing, and cleaning characteristics that are beneficial to the skin and can be used to treat ingrown hairs in the following ways:
1. Reduces Inflammation:
Ingrown hairs form when hair curls back into the skin rather than growing out. This might cause swelling, redness, and inflammation in the affected area. Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory natural ingredients that can help lessen the redness and inflammation associated with ingrown hairs. When administered topically, it can calm irritated skin and relieve discomfort.
2. Cleaning And Disinfecting:
Because witch hazel is a moderate astringent, it can help clean and disinfect the skin. Ingrown hairs can cause a small opening in the skin, making it susceptible to infection. Applying witch hazel to the afflicted area can help prevent infection by eliminating dirt, debris, and bacteria. This cleansing activity can help to create a better environment in which the ingrown hair can mend.
3. Relieves Itching And Discomfort:
Ingrown hairs are frequently associated with itching, burning, and general discomfort. Scratching the affected region might aggravate the situation and even lead to infection. The calming characteristics of witch hazel can help ease irritation and pain, offering respite to the individual. It can help prevent further discomfort and problems by lowering the desire to scratch.
Follow these procedures to effectively utilize witch hazel for ingrown hairs:
1. Preparing The Skin:
Begin by rinsing the affected area with warm water and a moderate, fragrance-free cleanser. This procedure removes any debris, oils, or dead skin cells that may be causing the ingrown hairs.
Using a clean, soft towel, gently pat the area dry. Avoid rubbing, as this can aggravate the skin.
2. Application Of Witch Hazel:
Apply a small amount of witch hazel on a clean cotton ball or pad. You can also use a clean cloth or sterile gauze to apply it.
Apply witch hazel to the ingrown hair location gently. A light application is sufficient; do not massage forcefully.
3. Air Drying And Moisturizing:
Allow the witch hazel to dry naturally on your skin. It is not necessary to rinse it.
If desired, apply a moisturizer designed for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Avoid moisturizers that contain scents or other substances that may irritate the skin.
4. Repeat As Needed:
You can continue this procedure several times a day or as needed until the ingrown hair is gone. Be patient, as the ingrown hair may take some time to naturally make its way out of the skin.
While witch hazel can help control the symptoms of ingrown hairs, it’s crucial to understand that it may not completely eliminate the problem. To avoid recurrent ingrown hairs, consider exfoliating regularly to eliminate dead skin cells, shaving with a clean, sharp razor, and avoiding tight garments that can trap hairs. If ingrown hairs become infected, worsen, or continue, it is recommended to seek medical attention and assistance.
What Are The Causes Of Ingrown Hairs?
Hair removal causes ingrown hairs. Shaving is the most common cause of ingrown hairs, but any kind of hair removal (excluding laser hair removal, which removes the hair follicle entirely) can cause them. Ingrown hairs are more common when shaving practices are incorrect.
Razor burn, or skin irritation and inflammation caused by forceful shaving, can also accompany ingrown hairs.
Dead skin cells can clog the hair follicle after hair removal, causing the hair to grow inwards.
How To Avoid Ingrown Hairs?
Preventing ingrown hairs when shaving begins with the skin. Exfoliation is essential for avoiding ingrown hairs. That is the only way to keep them at bay.
Before shaving, prepare the face and hair by loosening the hair with a light exfoliating cleanser containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids. This can assist to eliminate dead skin cells and oil, reducing the possibility of hairs becoming trapped during the hair removal process.
To avoid irritation, always shave in the direction that the hair is developing. After that, apply a soothing serum to the affected region. A calming topical serum can assist to soothe the skin, relieve itching, and lower the chance of ingrown hairs.
You may also want to use a salicylic acid-containing moisturizer or a topical retinoid after that. Using salicylic acid lotions can help open the pores and follicles, avoiding congestion and thereby preventing ingrown hairs. Similarly, utilizing a retinoid can help prevent ingrown hairs on the face. This can improve skin cell turnover and keep hairs from becoming stuck beneath skin layers. Don’t use retinoids in the bikini area, because this can be very irritating.
Witch hazel is a natural medicine that can help relieve the pain of ingrown hairs. Many people choose it because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. However, keep in mind that results can vary and that severe situations should be addressed by a healthcare practitioner.
Thanks for reading. I hope you find it helpful.