Let's be honest ladies, hair removal can be a messy business. Even when you figure out which method you want to use, you know - shaving, waxing, laser - it can be a mission dealing with the snags that come with each one. Hands up, who else has had to deal with those annoying ingrown hairs since forever? Because, same.
Removing hair may be a speedy process, but unfortunately so is its return. Regrowth happens quickly and often comes back in the form of ingrown hairs and red, itchy bumps that totally spoil the hairless, smooth look you were going for. We have to conquer this thorn in our sides once and for all. Let's dive in, shall we?
Folliculitis
Say what now? Folli - cu - what? According to those in the know, the most common bump on the skin after hair removal is folliculitis. Folliculitis aka ingrown hairs aka the worst things in the world are common in those that shave or wax. This condition is characterised by small red bumps, often with visible trapped hair and sometimes has a yellow head. It's similar to a pimple (we know how much we love those) meaning that there's an infection of sorts at the base of a hair follicle. Ingrown hairs can be painful and get worse over time. Fun.
Don’t worry ladies, we got you. We’re breaking down exactly how to beat the pitfalls of hair removal. Here's the rundown on how to prevent ingrown hairs from ugling up your skin.
First, Exfoliate
This is key. Exfoliate your skin a day or two ahead so that you can buff away any dead skin that can clog up your pores. Part two of this process requires that you exfoliate a day after hair removal as well and once a week thereafter. Simple. A gentle exfoliation will help limit ingrown hairs and leave your skin silky smooth. And ladies, make sure that you do it right. You don’t want to cause damage to your skin by using a coarse exfoliating scrub. I would use an exfoliating mitt. Take the guesswork out of the process by using Silki's Exfoliating Glove to exfoliate perfectly and achieve flawless skin.
Okay. You've prepped your skin. Removed your hair. Now what?
Second, Moisturise
Once you've shaved or waxed make sure to apply a light moisturiser to keep the area hydrated and to encourage cell turnover. Do this daily. This helps to reduce the amount of dead skin cells that sit on the surface of the skin, possibly blocking the hair from getting through. Do your skin a favour and use Silki's Rosehip Oil. It contains Vitamin A (amongst a long list of other skin-perfecting ingredients) that work to promote cell turnover and deeply nourish and hydrate your skin. Win!
Uhm, I Already Have Ingrown Hairs...
Okay. We need a game plan. Apply a warm compress to the affected area for about 15 minutes. Now, try to free that sucker. Gently exfoliate with your Silki Glove. To reduce any inflammation, apply a drop of two of Silki Rosehip Oil and voila! You're well on your way to smooth skin.
So ladies (and men) follow these genius but simple tips, kiss those ingrown hairs goodbye and get ready to welcome happy, irritation-free skin.