Treatment of ingrown underarm hair – What to do? | Ingrown hair in the armpit

Treatment of ingrown underarm hair – What to do?

Normally, ingrown hair heals by itself within a few days, so there is not necessarily a need for action. Cooling compresses can also help to relieve the pain.

• If you notice after shaving that your skin is irritated and hairs could possibly grow in, you can try to counteract this with a peeling.

  This is also useful before hair removal to remove the dead skin cells.

• In the case of ingrown hair, which is inflamed and very annoying, the dermatologist or family doctor can help. With a sterile needle or a scalpel he makes a very small skin incision, which is also not painful. This allows the pus to drain off and the ingrown hair to be removed.
• In the course of therapy, drugs can also contribute to the healing process.

  Light cortisone creams help to relieve the inflammation. Retinoids remove dead skin cells and prevent pigmentation disorders.

• Last but not least, antibiotics can be prescribed in case of a pronounced inflammation. However, this is rarely necessary.

Pulling ointment is supposed to promote the maturation of an abscess and help to remove the pus.

However, it is very controversial whether it works at all and brings an advantage for the person concerned. In the case of ingrown hair, however, the use of pulling ointment is not necessary, so that one should refrain from using it. There are various creams that can help to relieve the symptoms of ingrown hair in the armpit.

Light cortisone creams, prescribed by a dermatologist or family doctor, help to inhibit the inflammation and promote healing. They are applied thinly to the affected area in the armpit. The duration of application must be discussed with a doctor.

Creams with retinoids are also prescribed by a doctor and help to remove dead skin cells and also eliminate the inflammation. Creams with antibiotic additives may also be prescribed for advanced inflammation and bacterial colonization. These kill the bacteria and thus promote healing.

In the case of a slight inflammation, which occurs for example after shaving, soothing creams with aloe vera or other additives as well as wound healing creams can also help. It is best to seek advice from a pharmacy. However, if you have a pronounced inflammation, you should consult a doctor before using creams yourself.