Treating ingrown hairs and folliculitis at Medicadermis
Do you suffer from red bumps, itching, or minor inflammations after shaving? Ingrown hairs and folliculitis are common skin problems that are not only annoying but can also lead to pigmentation spots and scarring. As a skin therapist at Medicadermis I explain exactly what these symptoms 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 out but curls back into the skin or gets stuck beneath the skin's surface. This causes inflammation, which appears as a red bump, sometimes containing pus or a visible hair inside. Ingrown hairs often occur after shaving or waxing, especially in the bikini line, underarms, legs, or beard area. People with curly or coarse hair suffer from this more frequently.
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 appears red and small bumps or pimples develop, often containing 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 more often has a bacterial cause. Both conditions can cause itching, redness, swelling, and discomfort.
What causes these skin problems?
- Shave 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 prevent irritation.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing, especially after shaving.
- Do not scratch bumps to prevent scars or pigment spots.
What does a skin therapist do?
As a skin therapist at Medicademis, I help you address the cause and prevent scarring. Depending on your skin type and concerns, I offer:
- Laser hair removal: to prevent recurring ingrown hairs
- Medical peels: to cleanse clogged hair follicles and smooth the skin
- Advice on skincare: tailored to your skin type, for home use
When should you seek help?
Do you often suffer from these symptoms, does your skin remain red, or do dark spots or scars develop? Then it is wise to seek professional help. Together, we will 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 popular skin therapy treatments at Medicadermis.
- IPL hair removal of arms and legs
- IPL and laser hair removal of the face
- IPL hair removal of the upper body
Are you unsure about your skin problem? Request a free video consultation. During this call, I will give you no-obligation advice and we will see if a treatment at Medikadermis in The Hague is suitable.