In males, the most common areas favoring development of ingrown hair include the chin, cheeks and the neck region. Males who shave off their head can also develop ingrown hair on scalp part [6].
In women, the common areas of ingrown hair are the regions of armpit, legs and area where pubic hair develops. Ingrown hair presents with the following signs and symptoms [7]:

• Development of bumps which are small, solid with a round shape – having same appearance as that of pimple
• Development of pus filled lesions
• The affected area undergoes darkening
• Inflammation of the affected area accompanied by itching and pain
• Presence of embedded hairs

• Pain

  Recurrent ingrown hairs with secondary scarring or signs of infection (pus, pain) require a visit to the dermatologist. [getbevel.com]

  This condition results in bumps after shaving that can be painful. To manage razor bumps, Gillette® has the tips needed to help minimize irritation and get a comfortable shave. [gillette.com]

  Ingrown hairs are big, red, and painful—exactly the kind of thing you don't want cropping up during bathing suit season. But eliminating them without pain or infection requires a little finesse. [prevention.com]

  Pain If the ingrown hair cyst becomes infected or inflamed, it can be painful and tender due to all of the skin stretching, or lack thereof, in combination with the inflammation. [doctorshealthpress.com]

  Fashion Tips for keeping your face smooth and pain-free after every shave As the shaving expert for grooming guru King of Shaves, Diane Wood knows how to keep your mug looking good. Here are her five secrets to keeping painful ingrown hairs at bay. [mensfitness.com]

• Inflammation

  Ingrown hairs also known as razor bumps, razor burn, hair bumps, shaving bumps or Psuedofolliculitis Barbae (PFB), is a condition where the hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin causing inflammation. [skinrenewal.co.za]

  Aspirin Aspirin can help reduce redness and inflammation, the two most common symptoms of ingrown hair. The anti-inflammatory property of aspirin reduces swelling, fights inflammation and treats mild infection. [top10homeremedies.com]

  Such a condition causes irritation and inflammation in the affected area. In males, the most common areas favoring development of ingrown hair include the chin, cheeks and the neck region. [symptoma.com]

  Apply directly to the bump to reduce inflammation or redness. If you are ready to extract the hair, and can see the hair is ready to be removed, grab a warm towel and gently press it against the bump. [essence.com]

• Swelling

  • Azulene and Allantoin will help reduce the redness and swelling. [menscience.com]

  The anti-inflammatory property of aspirin reduces swelling, fights inflammation and treats mild infection. Plus, the salicylic acid present in aspirin scrubs away dead skin to loosen the offending hair. [top10homeremedies.com]

  As your hair soaks up the water, it swells and softens, making it easier for your blades to cut. 3. Shave: Let the razor do the work. Shave with gentle strokes, and let your razor do the heavy lifting. [gillette.com]

  Repeat the process 2 times a day until the swelling and redness has disappeared completely. [healthyandnaturalworld.com]

• Short Stature

  stature syndrome Chronic folliculitis Chronic folliculitis of legs Collarettes of lash follicles Crandall's syndrome Deep bacterial folliculitis Demodex folliculitis Disseminate infundibulo-folliculitis Disturbance of hair cycle Eosinophilic pustular [emedcodes.com]

  The Short Description Is: Hair diseases NEC. [healthresearchfunding.org]

  stature syndrome Bockhart impetigo Chronic folliculitis Chronic folliculitis of legs Collarettes of lash follicles Crandall's syndrome Deep bacterial folliculitis Demodex folliculitis Disseminate infundibulo-folliculitis Disturbance of hair cycle Eosinophilic [icd9data.com]

• Papule

  Abstract Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is an inflammatory disorder characterized by the formation of papules, pustules, and hyperpigmentation as a result of ingrown hairs. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Retinoids Adapalene (Differin) - Adapalene gel 0.1% applied at bedtime decreased papules and hyperpigmented macules Tretinoin (Retin-A) - In blacks, tretinoin 0.025% cream combined with hydrocortisone 2.5% cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduced papules [brownskin.net]

  However, there was a significant mean papule reduction from baseline detected for both the control and daily advanced groups. [jddonline.com]

  Patients present with follicular papules in the beard from ingrown hairs that can eventually result in postinflammatory pigmentary alternation and scarring. [mdedge.com]

  This woman developed small erythematous papules after shaving her legs. Note the gridlike (follicular) pattern. FIGURE 5.7 Irritant folliculitis. This woman developed small erythematous papules after shaving her legs. [5minuteconsult.com]

• Dry Skin

  Just lift the end out from under the skin and remove them conventionally by shaving, waxing or electrolysis. Apply thin coat of Tend Skin Liquid twice daily to dry skin, once in the morning after showering and drying the skin. [tendskin.com]

  We've taken care of the science - all you have to do is apply BUMP DOWN to clean, dry skin immediately after shaving and to any affected areas twice daily. [getbarc.com]

  Ingrown hairs occur because the skin closes over the hair follicle after close shaving, waxing, or tweezing, making it difficult for the new hair to poke through this hard and dry skin. [dermaltherapy.com]

  Try exfoliating to remove any loose dead skin, which can block the ingrown hair from breaking through the skin’s surface. Apply a non-greasy moisturizer to help heal dry skin and remove any dead cells. [gillettevenus.com]

  Dab some rubbing alcohol on the skin after you shave to kill bacteria … then apply deodorant (an unscented Dove stick works best) liberally. This will keep you dry down there so you won’t chafe and prevents razor bumps. [stylecaster.com]

• Hyperpigmentation

  Background postinflammatory hyperpigmentation can be quite extensive in the affected area. Figure 1. Clinical PBF in an Afro-American patient. Figure 2. Clinical PFB in a Caucasian patient. [dermatologyadvisor.com]

  Using a topical retinoid at night or a combination retinoid product with hydroquinone can be helpful especially in cases of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. [mdedge.com]

  After 2 or 3 Laser hair removal treatments to improve and treat ingrown hairs, the post Inflammatory hyperpigmentation that remains can be treated with topical skin lighteners such as Luminesce, and Enlighten from Neotrata brightening range and/or in [skinrenewal.co.za]

  As the condition progresses, larger lumps may develop and complications such as keloid scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may occur. How is pseudofolliculitis barbae diagnosed? Formal tests are not required to reach a diagnosis. [dermcoll.edu.au]

  However, some people develop hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin. You can treat this with chemical peels or other skin-care regimens. [health.clevelandclinic.org]

• Skin Discoloration

  They also can be accompanied by pustules and skin discoloration. Furthermore, they can be painful and itchy as well as cosmetically disfiguring. [sciencedaily.com]

  By destroying the ingrown hair under the skin with a laser, the pimples and bumps disappear. The skin discoloration and skin texture can dramatically improve as well from a program of these treatments. [cosmeticlaserworks.com]

  Laser treatment risks include skin discoloration. Electrolysis may be used to permanently remove hairs. This procedure targets individual hair follicles and can be performed on any color of skin and any size and color of hair. [lagunaskincenter.com]

  PFB is characterized by skin lesions (e.g. "razor bumps"), skin discoloration, and/or irritation. Pseudofolliculitis can affect almost anyone who shaves; however, the disease disproportionately affects African-American and Hispanic males. [sbir.gov]

  For skin discoloration, prescribed fading creams such as hydroquinone 4% ( Eldoquin ), kojic acid, azelaic acid 15%-20%, or over-the-counter fading creams with 2% hydroquinone can help improve any residual or persistent discoloration. [medicinenet.com]

• Exfoliation of the Skin

  Ingrown hairs are caused because of lack of natural exfoliation in the skin. When you pull the hair out by the root a new thinner hair tries to pop out. The cells in the follicle will build up if your skin does not exfoliate itself. [ingrownhair.ca]

  Ingrown hairs are also caused because of lack of natural exfoliation in the skin. Symptoms include rash, itching skin, and hair which remains in spite of shaving. [en.wikipedia.org]

  Rich in antioxidants, Hydra Intense improves skin elasticity for up to 24 hours. For optimal results, apply Hydra Intense after exfoliating with Ananda Exfo Cream. [unikwax.com]

  Retin-A*, Stieva-A) cream can be used to promote exfoliation and enhance skin turnover. It can also treat dark spots and thickened skin caused by ingrown hairs. This prescription treatment is generally used sparingly at night to affected areas. [dermatology.ca]

• Irritability

  To manage razor bumps, Gillette® has the tips needed to help minimize irritation and get a comfortable shave. For tips on managing non-PFB (razor bumps) irritation from shaving, see our article on razor burn and irritation. [gillette.com]

  Shaving typically ends one of two ways: (1) soft and smooth perfection or (2) red, angry irritation, with the worst being a first sighting of an ingrown hair. [blog.mariobadescu.com]

  If irritation develops, discontinue use and consult a doctor. Using topical acne medication at the same time or immediately following use of this product may increase dryness or irritation of the skin. [ulta.com]

  Barc's repair and relief lotion treats and prevents razor bumps and ingrown hairs as well as other skin irritations that can sometimes be down right...well, irritating. [getbarc.com]

  But they can be irritating and embarrassing. What Does an Ingrown Hair Look Like? An ingrown hair irritates the skin. It produces a raised, red bump (or group of bumps) that looks like a little pimple. [webmd.com]

• Burning Sensation

  Unlike, the after shave astringents, it doesn’t contain alcohol and thus prevents burning sensation too ( 16 ). Apply aloe vera gel over the affected area. Leave it for half an hour and then wash it off with lukewarm water. [homeremedyhacks.com]

  Repeat several times a day until the burning sensation has dissipated and the bumps can no longer be seen. 8. Black tea If you happen to have some black tea in your kitchen cabinet, you’ve got one of the best remedies there are for razor bumps. [naturallivingideas.com]

Diagnosis of ingrown hair consists of thorough physical examination of the affected area. The pustules are analyzed for presence of secondary infections. In addition, a complete history of hair removal habits is gathered from the patients.
Biopsy of the affected area is not indicated in such cases unless signs of secondary skin infections are evident.

Medications are given to effectively manage the condition. The following types of medicines are administered for treating ingrown hair [8].

• Retinoids: Retinoids such as tretinoin are administered which would help in the process of exfoliation and also aid in prevention of skin darkening and thickening. 
• Corticosteroids: These are administered so that inflammation can be effectively controlled.
• Antibiotics: In case of severe infections, oral antibiotics may be administered to combat the infection. In addition, ointments containing antibiotics may also be given to relieve symptoms of itching and irritation caused due to ingrown hair.

The prognosis of ingrown hair is good and the accompanying bump generally fades away with proper treatment. Individuals are prone to get recurrent bouts of ingrown hair if proper care and preventive measures are not taken. In addition, several treatments may be required in order to prevent recurrence of the condition.
Untreated or chronic ingrown hair can lead to development of bacterial infections and permanent scarring of the affected area.

Ingrown hair develops when the hair curls and grows back into the skin due to use of improper shaving or hair removal techniques. Individuals with coarse or curly hair are at an increased risk of developing this condition. Activities such as shaving, waxing, electrolysis and wearing tight fitting clothing can promote development of ingrown hair. When there is an ingrown hair, the skin reacts as it would to a foreign body and throws out various uncomfortable signs [2].

The exact incidence of ingrown hair is not known. It is thought to commonly strike males between the age group of 14 – 25 years. Individuals with ingrown hair are more prone to develop pseudofolliculitis barbae. The occurrence of ingrown hair is common amongst Blacks. It has been estimated that about 45 – 83% of black and 3% of white individuals develop pseudofolliculitis barbae due to removal of facial hair [3].

The pathogenesis of ingrown hair involves two main processes, namely extrafollicular penetration and transfollicular penetration. The incidence of ingrown hair is a common phenomenon in males who have curly hair. While shaving, sharp edges are created in the hair which when grows again, gets curled and re-enters the skin. This process is known as extrafollicular penetration.

In the other process, the cut hair re-enters the skin without growing out. This phenomenon is known as the transfollicular penetration. Males who use the double blade razor also fall prey to ingrown hair. In double blade razor, the hair is pulled out by the first blade followed by cutting by the second one. Such an activity causes the hair to retract favoring development of ingrown hair [4, 5].

Ingrown hair occur as a result of various hair removal technique that causes the improperly cut hair to re-enter the skin. Individuals are therefore advised to use those kinds of hair removal techniques that would help prevent the development of ingrown hair. The following precautionary methods can be used to avoid ingrown hair:
Always follow the practice of shaving after wetting the facial hairs. Shaving off dry hairs leads to development of ingrown hair and therefore such a practice should be discouraged.Electric razor should be preferred over other variants [9].

Individuals are advised to shave in the direction of hair growth and avoid skin taut.
The practice of using a single blade razor should be encouraged and males are also advised to apply cool compresses to the area after shaving [10].

It is a common condition amongst the males aged 14 – 25 years. However, the condition can affect any individual who practice hair removal by waxing, shaving or tweezing. Use of electrolysis to remove hair can also predispose an individual to develop ingrown hair [1]. Any activity that promotes uneven breaking of hair using sharp pointed objects can cause ingrown hair.

• Definition: Ingrown hair is a condition wherein shaved hair re-enters the skin causing development of bumps and inflammation in the affected area. Such a type of condition is common amongst individuals aged 14 – 25 years. Ingrown hair can strike any individual who practice hair removal techniques to shave hair.
• Cause: Several hair removal techniques like shaving, waxing, use of electrolysis and tweezers to remove hair predispose an individual to develop ingrown hair. Individuals with coarse or curly hair are more prone to develop this condition.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of ingrown hair include development of small, solid, round shaped bumps in the affected area followed by inflammation and irritation. The lesions are small and filled with pus. In many cases, individuals may also experience pain and darkening of the affected area.
• Diagnosis: The condition is diagnosed with a thorough physical examination of the affected area. In addition, the pustules may be checked for signs of secondary inflammation. Skin biopsy may seldom be required.
• Treatment: Ingrown hair is treated with medications such as antibiotics, corticosteroids and retinoids. Antibiotics are administered to treat the bacterial infection and corticosteroids are given to reduce the inflammation. Retinoids help in darkening of the skin and also help alleviate hyperkeratosis characterized by thickening of the skin.

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2. Kligman AM, Peters L. Histologic changes of human hair follicles after electrolysis: a comparison of two methods. Cutis. Aug 1984;34(2):169-76.
3. Kelly AP. Pseudofolliculitis barbae and acne keloidalis nuchae. Dermatol Clin 2003; 21:645.
4. Winter H, Schissel D, Parry DA et al. An unusual Ala12Thr polymorphism in the 1A α-helical segment of the companion layer-specific keratin k6hf: evidence for a risk factor in the etiology of the common hair disorder pseudofolliculitis barbae. J. Invest. Dermatol. 122(3),652–657 (2004).
5. Lynfield YL, Macwilliams P. Shaving and hair growth. J Invest Dermatol 1970; 55:170.
6. BHAKTAVIZIAM C, MESCON H, MATOLTSY AG. SHAVING. I. STUDY OF SKIN AND SHAVINGS. Arch Dermatol 1963; 88:874.
7. McCabe J, Blades Z, McGrath EE. A spontaneous skin lesion. Can. Med. Assoc. J. 179(12),1297–1299 (2008).
8. Cohen JL. Pain management with a topical lidocaine and tetracaine 7%/7% cream with laser dermatologic procedures. J Drugs Dermatol. Sep 1 2013;12(9):986-9.
9. Nanni CA, Alster TS. Long-pulsed alexandrite laser-assisted hair removal at 5, 10, and 20 millisecond pulse durations. Lasers Surg Med. 1999;24(5):332-7.
10. Vachiramon V, Brown T, McMichael AJ. Patient satisfaction and complications following laser hair removal in ethnic skin. J Drugs Dermatol. Feb 2012;11(2):191