Hot weather is (almost) around the corner, and we only ask our bikini lines for one thing, let us shave our bushes, ingrown hair-free, please! There’s nothing more annoying than waking up to a bunch of fresh new ingrown hairs - itchy and frankly uncomfortable. If infected, you’ll notice a pus-filled blister-like shape over the ingrown hair which can even lead to hyperpigmentation if popped. But hey, we move on - here are our top tips to blow you and your bikini lines away and achieve that dolphin-shine skin you crave.
Ingrown hair on the vag and ween – why do they occur?
So, if you’re a shaver, there is a risk that the coarse pubic hair grows backwards instead of up when it starts to grow out again. This traps the little strand and creates those pesky, ingrown hair bumps that always overstay their welcome.
How to prevent ingrown hair in the pubic area
The best (and probably most obvious) way to prevent ingrown pubic hair is to not shave at all. But hey, since you’re here and all, we’d guess you probably want another answers. There are of course other steps to take to prevent ingrown hairs, but here are our 5 pro top tips.
Step 1: Start exfoliating
Step 2: Use a sharp razor
Step 3: Shave the right way
Step 4: Amp up the moisturizer
Step 5: Give your skin a rest
1. Start Exfoliating
Dead skin cells are not welcome. Start to exfoliate your private area with a gentle scrub, we have a specialist one called Essential Exfoliant before you pick up your razor. This extra step removes dead skin cells and keeps ingrown hair in the pubic area at bay. Use gentle motions and rinse off the scrub with cool water.
2. Use a sharp razor
Okay, now you’re ready to shave. But please don’t start before you’ve made sure that you’re using a fresh razor head. Your razor should glide like butter over your skin, and if it doesn’t, it’s a sign that it’s time to switch razor blades. We recommend switching up your blade after 5-7 uses. You can try our Razor Starter Kit Subscription - THE best razor to avoid ingrown hairs.
3. Shave the right way
The key to the perfect shave is to shave the right way. After exfoliating, use a shaving gel, like our beloved Ultimate Shave Gel. Hold your skin taut, and carefully start shaving using short strokes. Rinse your razor after every stroke, and always shave in the direction of your hair growth.
4. Amp up the moisturizer
Next, apply a gentle body moisturizer, something like our Everyday Body Lotion to the area. By doing so, you calm the skin and reduce the chances of it getting dry and itchy. Now, go and enjoy your silky smooth skin - it may cause compliments though, so be prepared.
5. Give your skin a rest
We know that you might be loving your trimmed look, and you might want to keep the area freshly shaved at all times. However, if you really don’t want any ingrown hair on your vag or ween, then you must lay down the razor and await some stubble.
How to treat a razor bump on your private area
So you’ve tried super hard to prevent ingrown hairs but you still spot one rearing its head - here is a little step-by-step ritual to help treat an ingrown hair on and around your bikini line.
- Cleanse the area with warm water and a mild cleanser.
- Apply a warm compress to soothe the bump and reduce inflammation.
- Avoid further irritation by not shaving or wearing tight clothing.
- Use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce redness and itching.
- Moisturise the area regularly to keep the skin hydrated.
- If the bump persists or becomes infected, consult a dermatologist for further treatment options.
Should you pop an ingrown hair?
Sink-side surgery is NOT recommended! While it may be tempting to remove it yourself, doing so can lead to further irritation, infection, and potential scarring. Popping an ingrown hair can push bacteria deeper into the skin, causing inflammation and making the condition worse and so much more painful. Instead, it is better to gently exfoliate the area, apply warm compresses to help release the hair, and let the skin breathe by not shaving or wearing tight clothing.
How long does an ingrown pubic hair cyst last?
The duration of an ingrown pubic hair cyst depends on a couple of factors like your immune system, the size of the cyst, and infection. Smaller cysts tend to clear up on their own, while larger or infected ones may last weeks, it’s probably best at this point to seek a professional's advice. Avoid squeezing or popping to prevent making the infection worse and prevent the skin from scarring. If the cyst persists, becomes painful, or shows signs of pus/infection, again, consult a professional for proper treatment.
Good shaves come to those who wait.
