What Causes Ingrown Hairs?
|
Ingrown hairs occur when hair is removed below the surface of the skin and curls back into the skin as it grows. It is common for both men and women who shave or wax, since those methods can remove hair below the surface of the skin.
When a hair grows this way, it can cause “razor bumps” (pseudofolliculitis barbae or PFB) which is an inflamed area surrounding the hair. This causes the characteristic redness and bumps which are unattractive and can lead to scarring. It also causes irritation and itching, making it difficult to shave or wax again until the area is fully healed. |
Ingrown hair occurs in areas where the hair is curly and the skin may be sensitive, or come in contact with clothing. Curly hair is more likely curve back into the skin and tight clothing constricts the hair against the skin. However, even a straight hair can grow into the skin when the tip is sharpened by a razor.
Most techniques for getting a closer shave such as shaving “against the grain” and using multi-blade razors can cause ingrown hairs because these methods can cut the hair below the surface of the skin. (Multi-blade razors are designed to pull the hair before cutting so that the hair is cut below the skin’s surface.)
Prevention and Treatment
|
Of course ingrown hairs can be avoided by not shaving or waxing and using depilatories, or getting electrolysis or laser hair removal, but these options all have their own drawbacks. So if you are going to shave, the main ways to prevent ingrown hairs are careful shaving technique and exfoliation before and after shaving. However, for some of us, these methods are just not enough - that's when ingrown hair treatments are needed. |
|
The most effective ingrown hair treatments use chemical exfoliates to remove dead skin and keep pores from getting clogged (and trapping the hair), or anti-inflammatories to reduce the inflammation surrounding the hair.
The problem is that many of the most effective ingredients are irritating to the skin. Glycolic acid is a very effective chemical exfoliant, but it stings when applied, even more so on freshly shaved skin. Acetylsalicylic Acid (aspirin) is an effective anti-inflammatory not irritating by itself, but must be dissolved in Isopropyl Alcohol to be applied to the skin. The alcohol irritates the skin and dissolves the skin’s protective lipid layer which can cause dehydration and increased skin sensitivity.
The problem is that many of the most effective ingredients are irritating to the skin. Glycolic acid is a very effective chemical exfoliant, but it stings when applied, even more so on freshly shaved skin. Acetylsalicylic Acid (aspirin) is an effective anti-inflammatory not irritating by itself, but must be dissolved in Isopropyl Alcohol to be applied to the skin. The alcohol irritates the skin and dissolves the skin’s protective lipid layer which can cause dehydration and increased skin sensitivity.
How is Veliscio Different?
|
Veliscio Post Shave Treatment is different because the anti-inflammatory ingredients are Aloe Barbadenesis (Aloe Vera Gel), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract and caffeine, which are extremely effective without being harsh or irritating to the skin. |
Veliscio also takes a more holistic approach by not just preventing inflammation, but fully treating all the damage from shaving.
It contains antioxidants to soothe the skin from the stress of shaving and antiseptics to treat and seal nicks from shaving. It also contains a combination of moisturizers that restore moisture and seal and protect the skin from further irritation.
It contains antioxidants to soothe the skin from the stress of shaving and antiseptics to treat and seal nicks from shaving. It also contains a combination of moisturizers that restore moisture and seal and protect the skin from further irritation.