Understanding What Causes Ingrown Hairs

Did you know that female hair removal dates back between 4000 and 3000 BC? While the methods we use to remove body hair have evolved (immensely!) Women are still dealing with ingrown hairs. Today, let's chat about that pesky problem that can follow hair removal. They can be a real pain, but with the right knowledge and care, you can minimize their occurrence and enjoy smooth, bump-free skin. So, what exactly causes ingrown hairs after waxing, and how can you keep them at bay? Let’s dive in!

First off; an ingrown hair is a hair that has curled back into the skin rather than emerging from the surface of the skin. Ingrown hairs are most common on the legs, bikini area, underarms, and beard. This can cause redness, inflammation, and sometimes even infection. Not exactly the smooth, glowing skin we’re all aiming for, right?

Common Causes of Ingrown Hairs

Here are some of the main culprits behind those annoying ingrown hairs:

1. Dead Skin Cells: Dead skin cells can clog hair follicles, making it difficult for new hair to break through the surface.

2. Curly or Coarse Hair: If you have curly or coarse hair, it's more likely to curl back into the skin as it grows.

3. Tight Clothing: Wearing tight clothing right after waxing can irritate the skin and encourage hairs to grow back into the skin.

4. Over-Exfoliating: While exfoliating is crucial, overdoing it can actually irritate your skin, causing it to become inflamed and more prone to ingrown hairs.

Why Waxing Is Better Than Shaving for Ingrown Hairs

When you shave, you're cutting the hair at the surface, leaving a sharp edge that can easily grow back into the skin. Waxing, on the other hand, removes the hair from the root. This means it takes longer for the hair to grow back, and when it does, it's usually finer and softer, reducing the likelihood of it becoming ingrown. Plus, waxing exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells that can clog hair follicles.

Expert Tips from The Pros

To keep those ingrown hairs at bay, follow these tips from our expert estheticians:

1. Exfoliate, But Not Too Much: Exfoliating 1-2 times per week is ideal. Use a gentle scrub like our Deck Scrub for sensitive areas like the bikini line or underarms, and our Ocean Road Body Scrub for larger areas like legs and back. This helps remove dead skin cells without irritating your skin.

2. Moisturize Daily: Keeping your skin hydrated is key. Use our Bump Eraiser Triple Action Lotion for smaller areas and our Ocean Road Body Lotion for larger areas to keep your skin soft and supple. Well-moisturized skin allows hair to grow out more easily.

3. Wear Loose Clothing After Waxing: Tight clothing can cause friction and irritation, making it easier for hairs to become ingrown. Stick to loose, breathable fabrics right after your wax.

4. Avoid Touching or Picking at Ingrown Hairs: It’s tempting, but touching or picking at ingrown hairs can lead to infection and scarring. Let them heal naturally, or see a professional if they become painful.

Fun fact: BARE offers specialized Bikini Facial's and skincare treatments to target ingrown hairs.

Now that you understand what causes ingrown hair, are you ready to say goodbye to them and hello to smooth, glowing skin? Book your next wax at BARE Body Waxing Studio and let our expert estheticians take care of you. See you soon!