Often confused with clogged pores, folliculitis, and razor bumps, ingrown hairs are among the most common side effects of various hair removal methods. They tend to appear along the bikini line, underarms, and face, where coarse, thick strands are more likely to curl under as they attempt to emerge from the follicle. Fortunately, we can offer expert guidance to help you and your clients achieve better results with a specialized ingrown hair serum.
What is ingrown hair serum?
Ingrown hair serum is a topical treatment formulated to prevent and treat pesky ingrown strands after hair removal. Let’s take a closer look:
What does ingrown hair serum do?
Most ingrown hair serums take a multipronged approach to protecting skin from trapped strands and dislodging them when they appear, including:
- Exfoliation: Exfoliating acids like salicylic, glycolic, and lactic acid slough off dry, dead skin cells that can trap hairs in the follicle.
- Reducing inflammation: May contain a soothing botanical extract like aloe vera, chamomile, or witch hazel to soothe irritation, calm redness, and prevent bumps after waxing.
- Preventing bacterial growth: Tea tree oil and other compounds feature antimicrobial properties to minimize the risk of infection.
- Softening skin and hair: Hydrating ingredients soften the skin to make it easier for new hairs to emerge.
Are there different types of serums?
There’s no shortage of ingrown hair serums out there. Some focus on exfoliation, some prioritize hydration, and others feature gentle, naturally derived ingredients. Even if you have sensitive skin, the right ingrown hair treatment can help you enjoy the benefits of waxing while minimizing the side effects.
Who shouldn’t use ingrown hair serums?
Of course, not everyone will respond well to an ingrown hair serum. People with highly reactive skin and topical allergies may be more prone to irritation and inflammation when using these products.
Those using potent acne medications or retinoids may experience over-exfoliation and excessive peeling. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using an ingrown hair treatment.
Related: Does Waxing Prevent Ingrown Hairs?
Why use ingrown hair serum after waxing?
While some specialty serums can treat active ingrown hairs, others offer a degree of protection against new ones or soothe the lingering effects of previously trapped strands.
Preventing ingrown hairs
Makeup, excess oil, and dead skin cells can clog follicles as new hair begins to grow, forcing strands to curl inward instead of emerging as usual. Along with regular exfoliation between waxes, an ingrown hair serum can break down these impurities so fresh strands have a clear exit path.
Soothing irritated skin
Even with a premium wax and a flawless technique, face and body waxing can cause minor trauma to the skin. Redness, irritation, and pimples may appear as the skin heals. A great ingrown hair serum containing anti-inflammatory ingredients like shea butter can soothe the skin to smooth out bumps and speed up the recovery process.
Reducing dark spots
Ingrown hairs, repeated irritation, and old acne scars often leave skin with long-term discoloration, especially in people with darker skin tones. But the right ingrown hair treatment can help. Look for products containing exfoliants and brightening ingredients like niacinamide and azelaic acid.
Related: Does Waxing Reduce Hair Growth?
How to choose the best ingrown hair serum for you
Ready to find the right ingrown hair serum for your skin? Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect product:
Consider exfoliating ingredients
If you’re struggling with active ingrown hairs or lingering discoloration, you’ll want a serum with exfoliating acids to eliminate impurities and encourage faster cellular regeneration. There are many out there, but a few common options include:
-
Salicylic acid (BHA): Salicylic acid dissolves oil and penetrates deep into pores and follicles to remove sebum, dead skin cells, and other impurities. It’s essential for addressing active ingrown hairs.
- Glycolic or lactic acid (AHA): These AHAs exfoliate the skin’s surface to improve texture and fade dark spots. They’re great for folks with dry skin.
You may find a combination AHA/BHA product that can help you correct multiple cosmetic concerns at once.
Look for soothing ingredients
Maintaining healthy skin between waxing appointments is another critical component of safe and effective hair removal, so you’ll want to soothe and nourish your outer layer with ingredients like:
- Aloe vera
- Chamomile
- Allantoin
- Witch hazel
- Tea tree oil
Consider skin sensitivity
Some ingredients are more potent than others and can lead to breakouts and irritation. If you have sensitive skin, watch out for products containing alcohols, essential oils, and artificial fragrances. Always patch test new products before applying them to the entire treatment area, especially if you plan to use them on your face, underarms, or bikini area.
Related: What’s the Best Wax for the Bikini Area?
Explore the best professional waxing products at Enso Wax!
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