Ingrown hair cysts: what it is, how to recognize it, how to treat it

Red, raised bumps, darkening of the skin and ingrown hair cysts appear. These can become infected, and filled with pus, and require urgent treatment in severe cases. While ingrown hairs have ‘pus heads’, cysts, on the other hand, are larger and have no head. Instead, they form a liquid.

Ingrown hair cysts can be treated with home remedies like warm compress or exfoliation, some may require medication and even treatment. However, it is important not to scrub too hard or try to remove the pus on your own. Health Shots caught up with dermatologist Dr. Priyanka Kuri to understand everything about ingrown hair cysts and how to treat them.

What is an ingrown hair cyst?

An ingrown hair cyst is a common skin problem that occurs when a hair, instead of growing out, curls back and burrows into the skin. “This tangled hair triggers the body’s inflammatory response, leading to the formation of a bump or cyst,” says Dr. Kuri.

How do you recognize an ingrown hair cyst?

Diagnosing an ingrown hair cyst is usually straightforward. It usually appears as a small, red bump that feels tender to the touch. “Sometimes, tangled hair can also appear on the bump. In some cases, the cyst may appear white or yellow, indicating the presence of pus, which indicates an infection,” says Dr. Kuri.

Causes of Ingrown Hair Cyst

1. Shaving

Shaving, especially against the grain, can break the hair shaft, making it easier for the tip to curl inward and grow.

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2. Waxing

Like shaving, waxing forces the hair out of the follicle, increasing the risk of hair regrowth.

3. Tight clothing

Wearing tight clothing, especially in areas prone to ingrown hairs such as the groin or buttocks, can trap sweat and hair, creating an environment conducive to growth.

4. Certain hair types

Coarse, curly hair is more prone to ingrown hairs than straight or fine hair, as the curls tend to curl inward and pierce the skin.

5. Skin conditions

Skin conditions such as keratosis pilaris, which cause rough, bumpy patches on the skin, can also trap hair and increase the risk of ingrown hairs.

How to treat ingrown hair cysts?

For mild ingrown hair cysts, there are some home remedies that are often effective.

1. Warm compresses

Applying warm compresses to the affected area for 10-15 minutes, several times a day, can help reduce inflammation and encourage hair to surface.

2. Exfoliation

Gently exfoliating the area with a washcloth or mild scrub will help remove dead skin cells and remove trapped hair.

3. Over-the-counter topical medications

Applying an over-the-counter antibiotic cream or salicylic acid solution can help reduce inflammation and fight potential infection.

However, you should see a doctor if a cyst is:

• Becomes enlarged and painful
• Shows signs of infection such as redness, pus or fever
• Does not improve with home care for a week

Also Read: Skin rash or eczema: how to find out?

What not to do while nursing an ingrown hair cyst?

1. Picking or squeezing

This can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring or infection.

2. Vigorous scrubbing

It can irritate the skin and worsen ingrown hairs.

3. Use of harsh topical products

Avoid using harsh soaps or drying astringents on the affected area, as they can further irritate the skin.

How to prevent ingrown hair cyst?

1. Shaving technique

Shave with the grain of your hair growth and use a sharp, single blade razor. Wash the razor often and consider using a shaving gel or cream for better lubrication.

Also Read: Armpit Rash: 6 Causes And How To Treat It

2. Exfoliation

Exfoliate areas prone to ingrown hairs regularly to remove dead skin cells that trap hair.

3. Clothing choices

Choose loose clothing for better airflow and to avoid chafing, especially in areas prone to ingrown hairs.

4. Hair removal alternatives

Consider alternative hair removal methods, such as laser hair removal or depilatory creams, which can reduce the risk of ingrown hairs compared to shaving or waxing.