Treating Ingrown Hairs and Folliculitis at Medicadermis
Do you suffer from red bumps, itching or small inflammations after shaving? Ingrown hairs and folliculitis are common skin problems that are not only annoying, but can also lead to pigment spots and scars. As a skin therapist at Medicadermis, I explain exactly what these complaints are, what causes them and what you can do about them.
What are ingrown hairs?
An ingrown hair occurs when a hair does not grow outward, but curls back into the skin or gets stuck under the skin's surface. This causes an inflammation, which becomes visible as a red bump, sometimes with pus or a visible hair in it. Ingrown hairs often occur after shaving or waxing, especially in the bikini line, armpits, legs or beard area. People with curly or coarse hair suffer from this more often.
What is folliculitis?
Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicle. It is usually caused by a bacterium, such as Staphylococcus aureus , but can also be caused by yeasts, friction or irritation. The skin looks red and small pimples or spots develop, often with pus. Sometimes it itches or feels painful. A well-known variant is pseudofolliculitis barbae, in which hairs curl back into the skin after shaving.
How do you recognize the difference?
Ingrown hairs occur when the hair grows back into the skin and are often individually visible. Folliculitis involves multiple inflamed hair follicles at the same time and is more often caused by bacteria. Both conditions can cause itching, redness, swelling and discomfort.
What causes these skin problems?
- Shaving against the direction of hair growth
- Dull or dirty razor blades
- Tight clothing and friction
- A humid environment (such as exercising in synthetic clothing)
- Sensitive or easily clogged skin
What can you do yourself?
- Always shave in the direction of hair growth and use a sharp, clean blade
- Exfoliate the skin 1 to 2 times a week with a mild scrub or exfoliant
- Use a moisturizing, non-comedogenic cream to avoid irritation
- Wear loose-fitting clothing, especially after shaving
- Do not scratch bumps to prevent scarring or pigment spots
What does the skin therapist do?
As a skin therapist at Medicadermis I help you to tackle the cause and prevent scars. Depending on your skin type and complaints I offer:
- Laser hair removal: to prevent recurring ingrown hairs
- Medical peels: to cleanse clogged hair follicles and smooth the skin
- Skin care advice: tailored to your skin type, for home use
When should you seek help?
Do you often suffer from these complaints, does the skin remain red or do dark spots or scars appear? Then it is wise to seek professional help. Together we look for the best solution for your skin, with an approach that works and is safe.
What treatments do I offer? Below you will find an overview of the most chosen skin therapy treatments at Medicadermis.
- IPL hair removal for arms and legs
- IPL and laser hair removal of the face
- IPL hair removal of the trunk
Free video consultation
Are you unsure about your skin problem? Request a free video consultation. During this conversation I will give you free advice and we will see if a treatment at Medicadermis in The Hague is suitable.