Ingrown hairs can be a bothersome and painful issue for individuals who shave or wax their body hair. These hairs curl back into the skin instead of growing out, leading to painful inflammation and potential infection.
While there are various methods to treat them, laser hair removal has proven to be one of the most effective solutions.
By targeting the hair follicle, laser hair removal destroys it, preventing hair regrowth and eliminating the possibility of ingrown hairs.
In this article, we will explore the causes of ingrown hairs, the benefits of laser hair removal in preventing them, and additional considerations for men and women.
Causes of Ingrown Hairs
Several factors contribute to the formation of ingrown hairs including
Shaving or Waxing:
These common hair removal methods can trap hair beneath the skin, leading to ingrown hairs.
Curly or Coarse Hair:
Individuals with curly or coarse hair have a higher likelihood of experiencing ingrown hair due to the hair’s tendency to curl back into the skin.
Dead skin:
Excess dead skin can clog the follicle, causing the hair to grow underneath the skin or go back into its follicle or a nearby one.
As a result, the hair starts growing inward instead of coming out through the surface of the skin.
Typically, ingrown hairs manifest as small, red bumps on the skin. These bumps may be itchy or painful and can develop into whiteheads or pimples over time.
To ensure an accurate diagnosis, it is important to consult a physician to rule out other possible skin conditions.
The Relationship Between Laser Hair Removal and Ingrown Hairs
Contrary to popular misconceptions, laser hair removal does not cause ingrown hairs; in fact, it can help prevent them.
As explained earlier, laser hair removal works by destroying the hair follicles, making it impossible for hair to regrow.
By eliminating the hair follicle, the likelihood of hair becoming ingrown significantly diminishes.
Related post: Cynosure’s Elite iQ: The Life-Changing Laser Hair Treatment
Choosing the Right Laser Hair Removal for Your Skin Type and Hair Color
When it comes to laser hair removal, there are different types of lasers available, each with its own strengths and limitations.
The most commonly used lasers include the diode laser, alexandrite laser, and Nd: YAG laser.
The diode laser is versatile and suitable for various skin types and hair colors, making it a good choice for individuals with light skin and dark hair, as well as those with darker skin tones.
The alexandrite laser works best for lighter skin tones and darker hair. It is a good option for people who want to achieve permanent hair removal in a shorter amount of time.
On the other hand, the Nd: YAG laser is ideal for darker skin tones and finer hair.
It is often recommended for individuals who haven’t achieved satisfactory results with other laser types.
To determine which laser is most suitable for your specific skin type and hair color, it is important to consult with a doctor or dermatologist.
Our clinic offers Elite IQ laser – a dual wavelength laser hair removal system that uses both Alexandrite and Nd: YAG lasers to treat a variety of skin types and hair colors.
Book an appointment today or call us. We’ll assess your unique needs and guide you in choosing the right laser hair removal treatment.
Advantages of Laser Hair Removal for Ingrown Hairs
Laser hair removal stands out as the superior method for addressing ingrown hairs due to several reasons:
Permanent Solution:
Once the hair follicle is destroyed, regrowth is prevented, providing a long-term solution to ingrown hairs.
Minimal Discomfort:
Although mild discomfort may be experienced during treatment, it is usually temporary and tolerable.
Suitable for All Skin Types:
Laser hair removal is safe for both men and women and can be used on various skin types, including sensitive skin.
Post-Laser Hair Removal Considerations
Following laser hair removal, there is a possibility of experiencing ingrown hairs as the hair follicles heal and hair growth resumes at a slower pace.
However, ingrown hairs resulting from laser hair removal are typically less severe than those caused by shaving or waxing.
The treatment weakens the hair follicles, making them less prone to curling back into the skin.
Additional Medical Factors
Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of developing ingrown hairs:
Acne:
Individuals with acne have a higher incidence of ingrown hair due to inflammation, which impedes normal hair growth.
Eczema:
Dry and irritated skin resulting from eczema can make it difficult for hairs to grow out normally, increasing the risk of ingrown hairs.
Pili Multigemini:
This condition involves multiple hairs growing from a single follicle, increasing the likelihood of hairs curling back into the skin.
Ingrown Hairs In Men and Women
While ingrown hairs affect both genders, there are specific considerations for men and women:
Men:
Thicker and Coarser Hair: Men typically have thicker and coarser hair, increasing the chances of hairs curling back into the skin.
Frequent Shaving: Men are more prone to shaving various body areas, further heightening the risk of ingrown hairs.
Susceptible Areas: The neck, chest, and back are common areas for ingrown hairs in men. Pseudofolliculitis barbae is the chronic skin irritation that occurs when the neck and lower face is involved. This predominantly affects black men.
Women:
Susceptible Areas: Women commonly experience ingrown hairs in the bikini area and on their legs.
Waxing: Women tend to use waxing for hair removal, which can contribute to the occurrence of ingrown hairs.
Conclusion
Ingrown hairs can be frustrating and embarrassing, but laser hair removal offers an effective solution.
By permanently destroying the hair follicles, laser hair removal prevents the regrowth of hair and minimizes the risk of ingrown hairs.
To prevent ingrown hairs, regular exfoliation, gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and refraining from shaving or waxing in the treated area immediately after laser hair removal are recommended.
Consulting a specialist is essential to determine the suitability of laser hair removal for you.
Book a consultation session with an expert laser treatment provider at our Ottawa cosmetic clinic or call if you have any further questions. We’re here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does laser hair removal prevent folliculitis?
Yes, laser hair removal can help to prevent folliculitis. Folliculitis is a skin condition that causes inflammation of the hair follicles.
It can be caused by shaving, waxing, or other methods of hair removal that can irritate the skin.
Laser hair removal destroys the hair follicle, which can help to prevent folliculitis from occurring.
Will laser hair removal stop ingrown hairs?
Yes, laser hair removal can help to stop ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs are hairs that curl back into the skin instead of growing out.
This can happen when hair is shaved or waxed, or when it is trapped under dead skin cells.
Laser hair removal destroys the hair follicle, which prevents the hair from growing back.
Why do I have ingrown hairs after laser?
There are a few reasons why you might have ingrown hair after laser hair removal.
One possibility is that you are still in the early stages of treatment. It can take several treatments with laser hair removal to achieve permanent hair removal.
During this time, some hairs may still be growing back, which can increase the risk of ingrown hairs.
Another possibility is that you are not exfoliating regularly. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, which can help to prevent hairs from becoming ingrown.
If you are not exfoliating regularly, you may be more likely to develop ingrown hair after laser hair removal.
Dr. Lian Peter, MD, MPH, CCFP, is a Family physician with a passion for aesthetics. In her aesthetic clinic, she provides a wide range of minimally invasive and non-invasive procedures, constantly honing her skills to deliver exceptional care and help patients attain their desired appearance.
