Ingrown hairs usually improve with warm compresses, gentle exfoliation, and stopping the shaving or waxing that irritated the area. Don’t pick at it or dig into the skin, because that can cause infection or scarring.

What to do

  1. Apply a warm compress for 10 to 15 minutes, up to 4 times a day. This helps soften the skin and bring the hair closer to the surface.
  1. Wash the area gently with warm water and mild soap. Keep it clean to lower the risk of infection.
  1. Use gentle exfoliation. A soft washcloth or mild scrub can help release the trapped hair, but avoid harsh scrubbing.
  1. If the hair is visibly sticking out, you can carefully lift it out with clean tweezers. Do not break the skin or force it out.
  1. Pause shaving, waxing, or plucking the area until it heals. Continued hair removal can make it worse.

What to avoid

  • Don’t squeeze, scratch, or dig at the bump.
  • Don’t use sharp tools to cut into the skin.
  • Don’t shave too close to the skin once it heals; that raises the chance of another ingrown hair.

Preventing more

  • Exfoliate before shaving.
  • Shave in the direction of hair growth.
  • Use shaving gel or cream, and a sharp razor.
  • Moisturize after shaving to reduce irritation.
  • If you get them often, consider trimming, laser hair removal, or seeing a dermatologist.

Get medical help

See a clinician if the area becomes very red, painful, swollen, drains pus, or keeps coming back. Recurrent or infected ingrown hairs may need prescription treatment.

TL;DR: warm compress, gentle exfoliation, keep it clean, don’t pick, and stop shaving the spot until it heals.