How to prevent ingrown pubic hair
The best way to prevent ingrown pubic hair is by avoiding waxing, shaving, or plucking, but that’s not always practical. If you do continue to groom your pubic hair, some practices may prevent future ingrown pubic hairs. 1. Prime the pubic area for shaving Treating the pubic region before shaving may reduce your risk of ingrown hair when the hair starts to grow back. First, wash your skin with a mild soap. Rub on a lubricating shave cream or shave gel that’s designed for sensitive areas. Shave in the direction of hair growth. When you’re finished, dry the area thoroughly before getting dressed. 2. Replace your razor blade Some razors are designed to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. You can try one of these special razors, or just buy a single-bladed razor. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) suggests replacing your blade after five to seven shaves. Dull blades can increase your risk of ingrown hair. 3. Consider laser hair removal Laser hair removal removes hair at a deeper level, damaging the hair follicle. In most cases, that prevents the hair from growing back. Laser hair removal requires several treatments over the course of a few weeks and months, but the results are usually semi-permanent. Laser removal isn’t as effective on lighter hair colors. This can include if your hair is: blonde white gray red 4. Look into other hair removal options Chemical hair removers are an option but can irritate sensitive skin. Consider testing the product on a small patch on another part of your body before using it on your pubic area. If you don’t have a reaction within 24 hours, it should be safe to use. Keep in mind, the skin in the genital area is much more sensitive than the skin on your arm or leg. Some prescription creams reduce hair regrowth, especially when used after hair removal treatments. Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal treatment. It uses an electrode to destroy the hair root. Like laser hair removal, electrolysis requires several treatments over the course of a few weeks or months. 5. Exfoliate the area Exfoliate with salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These products help keep your hair follicles open, so the hairs don’t get trapped again. But avoid these products if you already have an ingrown hair, as they could irritate the area. 6. Moisturize the area A nongreasy moisturizer can get reduce dead skin cells, which often clog follicles and contribute to ingrown hairs.