In order to choose the best ingrown hair solution, first consider the way in which the hair has become ingrown and then the level of sensitivity of the skin in that area. If a hair has grown back into the follicle, it may be necessary to use an extraction method in order to remove it from the skin. If the hair has grown out of the follicle but has become embedded in the skin, a topical treatment may suffice. Not all topical treatments are acceptable for use on all areas of the body. Exfoliation, for example, is a very good ingrown hair solution as long as the skin that is being treated is not too sensitive or delicate.
A less abrasive ingrown hair solution might not be effective in areas where the skin is thick or tough. There are a number of topical solutions that are meant to be used to treat ingrown hairs that occur on sensitive areas of the body such as the bikini area and the underarms. These kinds of topical solutions might not be strong enough for ingrown hairs on the legs.
In many cases, the best ingrown hair solution is prevention. After an area of the body is tweezed, shaved, or waxed, treat it with a product that is meant to prevent ingrown hairs on that area of the body. Choose a topical solution or a lotion that is meant to prevent ingrown hairs or choose ingrown hair pads. Some areas of the body can be treated for ingrown hairs prior to shaving. If the legs are prone to ingrown hairs, consider giving them a good exfoliation prior to shaving so that dead skin cells that may be covering the ingrown hairs are removed and in order to help lift the hairs out of the skin.
If an ingrown hair solution such as exfoliation does not work, it may become necessary to extract the ingrown hair using a lancet, needle, or tweezers. Before doing so, be sure to treat the area with a warm compress or with steam. Also, be sure that the implements have been sterilized in order to make the extraction process safe. Be as gentle as possible when teasing the hair out of the skin in order to reduce the risk of scarring. Once the hair has been removed, disinfect the area.
