That small, tender, red bump you’ve noticed after shaving or waxing is likely an ingrown hair. It happens when a hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin, causing irritation. It’s a common skin woe, but it leaves many of us wondering just how long we have to put up with it.
While frustrating, most ingrown hairs are a temporary nuisance. The good news is that with proper care, they often resolve on their own. The timeline, however, can vary depending on a few key factors, including how you treat it.
The Typical Lifespan of an Ingrown Hair
For a mild ingrown hair that isn’t infected, you can expect it to clear up within one to two weeks. Your body will naturally absorb the hair, or it will break through the skin on its own. During this time, the redness and bump should gradually diminish. If the hair is trapped just beneath the surface, it might resolve even faster.
When an Ingrown Hair Sticks Around
Sometimes, an ingrown hair can last longer, from several weeks to even a month or more. This is more common if the area becomes chronically inflamed or if the hair is deeply embedded. If the bump becomes a painful, pus-filled blister, it may have developed into an infection, which will take longer to heal and might require medical attention.
How to Help It Heal Faster
You don’t have to just wait it out. Gentle care can significantly speed up the healing process. Start by applying a warm, damp compress to the area for a few minutes several times a day. This can help soothe the skin and encourage the hair to come to the surface. It is also crucial to stop any hair removal in that area until the ingrown hair is completely gone to prevent further irritation.
What You Should Never Do
As tempting as it may be, avoid the urge to pick, squeeze, or dig at the ingrown hair with tweezers or a needle. This can force bacteria deeper into the skin, leading to a more severe infection, increased inflammation, and even permanent scarring. Let your body do its work, and only assist it with gentle methods.
When to Consider Seeing a Doctor
While most ingrown hairs are harmless, you should consult a doctor or dermatologist if the bump becomes extremely painful, fills with a lot of pus, or if the redness keeps spreading. These can be signs of a significant infection that may require prescription antibiotics. Also, if you get ingrown hairs frequently, a doctor can provide long-term prevention strategies.
In most cases, an ingrown hair is a short-term visitor. With a little patience and gentle care, your skin will return to its normal, smooth self before you know it. The key is to treat your skin kindly and resist any harsh interventions.