Ingrown hair
Ingrown Hair
Ingrown hair (/ɪnˈɡroʊn hɛər/) is a condition where a hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin. The condition is most prevalent among people who have coarse or curly hair. It may or may not be accompanied by an infection of the hair follicle (folliculitis) or "razor bumps" (Pseudofolliculitis barbae), which vary in size.
Etymology
The term "ingrown hair" comes from the Latin words "in" meaning 'not' and "gros" meaning 'large or big'. This refers to the hair's inability to grow outwards, instead growing back into the skin.
Causes
Ingrown hair is a common condition that results from hair removal. It's most common in black men who shave facial hair. But ingrown hair can affect anyone who removes hair by shaving, tweezing or waxing. It can also occur in areas with high friction, such as the armpits or groin, due to the constant rubbing against the skin.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an ingrown hair include a painful or itchy bump on the skin, darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation), embedded hairs, infection, and pustules. In some cases, it may cause a painful, boil-like sore.
Treatment
Treatment for ingrown hairs may include topical solutions, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, to exfoliate the skin and help the hair to reach the surface. In severe cases, a doctor may need to make a small cut in the skin to release the ingrown hair.
Prevention
Prevention methods for ingrown hairs include proper shaving techniques, exfoliation of the skin, and avoiding tight clothing in areas prone to ingrown hairs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ingrown hair
- Wikipedia's article - Ingrown hair
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