Ingrown Hair on Eyebrows

Nowadays, the “uni-brow” is not considered an attractive part of the male or female face, meaning removing this unruly patch of hair becomes a must for some. However, those who pursue hair removal of this part of the body may face the uncomfortable burning sensation and itchiness that comes when ingrown hairs form. Whether you are shaping your eyebrows, tweezing the ends, or completely shaving the region – becoming familiar with this common skin irritation will certainly go a long way.

Appearance

When hairs become trapped under the skin, an ingrown hair is born. This occurrence can cause irritation and localized inflammation to attack the face [1]. A small, raised bump may form about the offending hair, which can become infected and fill with pus. The typical symptoms associated with ingrown hairs include a tingling sensation and red rash. Mild to severe pain is also experienced – depending on the intensity of the condition. If a chronic issue is present, the skin may show signs of irregularity and could possibly leave behind a scar.

Causes

While razors are often viewed as the main culprit behind ingrown hairs, it is important to take note that many other factors play a key role. Perhaps you have shaved against the direction of hair growth or stubbornly used an old shaver. Whatever the case might be, paying attention to the following common causes could mean the difference between a mild case of folliculitis and a chronic problem:

a) Waxing:

The irritation associated with waxing the eyebrows can actually cause more ingrown hairs to occur.

b) Too Much Plucking:

Contrary to popular belief, plucking the eyebrows can actually increase your chances of suffering ingrown hairs.

c) Irritating Hair Removal:

The skin about the eyebrows region is quite sensitive – meaning the hair removal techniques you use should not cause irritation. Inflame the skin and ingrown hairs may follow.

d) Persian Waxing:

Better known as ’sugaring,’ this form of hair removal warms sugar in the same manner as waxing. With the help of muslin strips, hair is removed when the sugar sticks to hairs and not to the skin [2]. However, if you don’t know what you’re doing during the process, you can cause ingrown hairs to develop in the future.

e) Unrelaxed Face:

If you attempt to shave the eyebrows when your face is unrelaxed, you run the risk of affecting the overall outcome by increasing your chances for ingrown hairs.

f) Unsanitary Blades:

Ingrown hairs attack the eyebrows when irritation, close shaves, and contact with bacteria takes place. Cut down your risk by sanitizing all of your shaving equipment. Rubbing alcohol is an effective solution.

g) Dull Razor Blade:

Ingrown hairs develop when shaving causes irritation to the eyebrows. Using a dull razor blade generally promotes the application of too much pressure to this part of the body.

Resources

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingrown_hair

[2] http://www.ivillage.co.uk/beauty/bodybasics/remove/qas/0,,548157_580930,00.html