Minimizing ingrown hairs due to shaving & waxing: Tip of the Day 4-29-22
A major drawback to shaving happens in the aftermath - in the form of ingrown hairs. They’re the worst. Fortunately, there are some preventative measures that fight ingrowns before they start. The weapon of choice recommended by skin experts is exfoliation.
Because shaving comes with its own risks of cuts and scrapes, experts don’t recommend physically scrubbing before you shave. In an interview with Byrdie, Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin recommends softening your hair and skin in the shower, and then using an exfoliating body wash. Look for ingredients like alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). Levin says those exfoliating ingredients will ensure the hair follicle is in the best condition for hair removal, and will also help allow for normal growth after the shave.
After the shave, regularly exfoliating areas prone to ingrowns (bikini area & beard area for men) helps to protect against hairs getting trapped under your skin. The same goes for waxing. In the days following your shave (or waxing), physically exfoliating with scrubbers, course washcloths, or brushes can be done 2-3 times a week, depending on the sensitivity of your skin.
Also, skin experts say shaved and waxed areas should stay moisturized! This helps prevent redness, itching, and irritation.