How To · Fashion · Grooming Basics
Prevent and Treat Ingrown Hairs Before They Become a Problem
Ingrown hairs aren't inevitable—they're the result of poor technique and lazy aftercare. Here's how to eliminate them for good.
5 min read · IrisIngrown hairs happen when a freshly cut hair curls back and embeds itself in the skin instead of growing straight out. For men with textured or curly hair, this is especially common after shaving, waxing, or trimming. The result: red bumps, irritation, and sometimes infection.
The good news: ingrown hairs are almost entirely preventable with the right approach. It's not about expensive products or complicated routines—it's about technique, timing, and one crucial aftercare step most men skip.
The difference between smooth skin and razor bumps often comes down to whether you exfoliate before or after you shave.
What you'll need.
- 01Soft washcloth or exfoliating mitt
- 02Chemical exfoliant (AHA or BHA)
- 03Pre-shave oil or lightweight moisturizer
- 04Sharp single-blade or safety razor
- 05Shaving cream
- 06Alcohol-free aftershave balm
- 07Warm compress
- 08Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide treatment
- 09Sterilized needle or tweezers (optional)
Step one · 1 minute
Exfoliate before you shave
Use a soft washcloth, exfoliating mitt, or gentle chemical exfoliant (AHA or BHA) to remove dead skin and lift any hairs that might be trapped. This clears the path for your razor and ensures hairs are cut cleanly at skin level, not below the surface. Do this the night before shaving for best results, or at least 30 minutes prior. Skip this step and you're setting yourself up for ingrown hairs.
A 2% salicylic acid wash works well here—it's gentle enough for daily use but effective enough to prevent buildup.
Step two · 2 minutes
Prep your skin with warm water and oil
Warm water opens your pores and softens facial hair, making it easier to cut cleanly. Apply a pre-shave oil or light moisturizer to create a smooth surface for your razor. This reduces friction and irritation, which are both ingrown hair culprits. Let the warm water sit on your face for at least 30 seconds before shaving.
If you're using shaving cream, apply it after the oil—the oil creates a protective barrier between your skin and the blade.
Step three · 2 minutes
Shave with a sharp, single-blade razor
A dull multi-blade cartridge razor pulls hairs below the skin surface before cutting them—this is a direct cause of ingrown hairs. Switch to a single-blade safety razor or straight razor, or replace your cartridge every 5-7 shaves. Shave in the direction of hair growth, not against it. One pass is enough; multiple passes increase irritation and the risk of hairs curling back.
If you must shave against the grain for a closer shave, do it only on your neck—your cheeks and jaw are more prone to ingrown hairs.
Step four · 2 minutes
Rinse and apply a soothing aftershave
Rinse with cool water to close your pores and calm irritation. Skip alcohol-based aftershaves—they dry out skin and trigger inflammation, which makes ingrown hairs worse. Instead, use an alcohol-free aftershave balm or a lightweight moisturizer with niacinamide or aloe. This keeps your skin calm and prevents the irritation that leads to ingrown hairs.
Apply aftershave while your skin is still slightly damp—it absorbs better and provides more hydration.
Step five · 2 minutes
Exfoliate again 2-3 days after shaving
This is the step most men skip, and it's the most important one. Two to three days after shaving, use a gentle exfoliant again to keep hairs from curling back into the skin. This prevents ingrown hairs from forming in the first place. A light chemical exfoliant is better than a physical scrub at this stage—your skin is still sensitive from shaving.
If you already have an ingrown hair, use a warm compress first to soften the area, then gently exfoliate around it. Never pick at it.
Step six · Ongoing
Treat existing ingrown hairs with targeted care
If you already have an ingrown hair, apply a warm compress for 10 minutes to soften the area and reduce inflammation. Use a product with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to keep the area clear and prevent infection. If the hair is visible, you can gently lift it with a clean, sterilized needle or tweezers—but never dig into the skin. If it's infected or deeply embedded, see a dermatologist.
Resist the urge to pick. Picking causes scarring and makes infection more likely. Let exfoliation and targeted products do the work.
How to know it's working
You'll see results within 3-5 days of consistent exfoliation and proper shaving technique. Existing ingrown hairs will flatten and fade, and new ones won't form. Your skin will feel smoother and look less irritated. If you're still seeing red bumps after two weeks, switch to a gentler exfoliant or consider seeing a dermatologist.
Questions at the mirror.
Can I prevent ingrown hairs if I have very curly hair?
Yes, but you need to be more diligent. Exfoliate before and after shaving, use a single-blade razor, and shave with the grain only. Consider switching to an electric trimmer or clipper instead of shaving—it cuts hair above the skin surface, eliminating the ingrown hair problem entirely.
What if I get ingrown hairs even with good technique?
Some skin types are simply more prone to them. If you've nailed the technique and still have issues, try exfoliating daily with a gentle chemical exfoliant, or switch to clipping instead of shaving. You can also see a dermatologist about prescription-strength treatments.
Is it safe to use tweezers to remove an ingrown hair?
Only if the hair is visible and the skin isn't inflamed. Use sterilized tweezers and gently lift the hair out—don't dig into the skin. If the hair is deeply embedded or the area is infected, leave it alone and let exfoliation and topical treatments do the work.
How often should I replace my razor blade?
Every 5-7 shaves for a safety razor, or every 2-3 weeks if you shave daily. A dull blade is one of the main causes of ingrown hairs. If you notice tugging or irritation, replace it immediately.