How to Prevent Ingrown Hair on Legs

With all of the different factors that can contribute to the development of ingrown hairs – taking a good look at your shaving practices and other hair removal habits is the first step towards preventing the condition from occurring in the first place. Ingrown hairs (also known as folliculitis) appear when new growth follows a “curling back” pattern or takes a sideways route into the skin – all of which has the potential to cause localized pain, irritation, and inflammation. So, why don’t you take an active stance against ingrown hairs and familiarize yourself with common prevention tips?

Ingrown Hair Prevention

To avoid the visible irritation, razor bumps, and inflammation that comes when ingrown hairs attack a pair of freshly shaven legs, it is suggested to consider the following prevention methods:

a) Shaving With the Grain:

It’s pretty ironic that the majority of TV ads for shaving gels show women shaving “against the grain” when in reality – the best approach to hair removal is to shave with the direction of hair growth – better known as “with the grain.” To achieve an effective shave for the legs, navigate the razor towards your feet.

b) Moisturizing Shaving Cream:

To enjoy a less irritating shave with smoother results, consider using a moisturizing shave cream or gel when tackling hair removal of the legs.

c) Glycolic Body Wash: Prevent impacted hairs on the legs by using a glycolic body wash the next time you take a shower or bath.

d) Sanitary Electric Shaving Equipment:

It is important to keep your electric shaving equipment clean when removing hair from the legs, as a sanitary shave can prevent the development of ingrown hairs.

e) Watch Out for Clothing Friction:

If you like wearing tight pants, you better think twice before squeezing into such clothing after a fresh shave. Clothing friction and tight apparel can cause hairs to grow outward at an angle.

f) Electrolysis: Some people have reported to suffer fewer ingrown hairs when they have undergone electrolysis treatments, which aims to permanently remove unwanted hair on the legs.

g) Wet Hair Before Shaving:

Softened hairs that are full of moisture contribute to an easier shaving process. To avoid leaving behind the jagged hair tips that can lead to ingrown hairs, make sure to shave your hairs when they have been wet for about five minutes.

h) Avoid Repeated Strokes:

Repeated shaving strokes will lead to your hairs being cut too short. The result can lead to ingrown hairs that emerge out of follicles at an awkward angle and then later curl back into the skin – causing unwanted irritation.

i) Depilatories:

Apply a depilatory to the legs to produce rounded hair tips that are less likely to penetrate the sides of follicles or the skin’s surface during the regrowth period. Nair and Veet are popular brands found on today’s market.

j) Acknowledge Your Sensitive Skin:

If you are prone to ingrown hairs, it is suggested to use a razor or depilatory to remove hairs instead of pulling them out at the root through waxing.