Conditions › Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown Hairs – Specialist Treatment for Bumps, Pigmentation & Scarring in London
Ingrown hairs occur when hair curls or grows sideways into the skin, leading to bumps, redness, pain, and sometimes infection. At Skinhorizon, our dermatology team provides consultant-led diagnosis and treatment to reduce irritation, prevent scarring, and restore skin comfort.
Call Us Book ConsultationWhat are ingrown hairs?
Ingrown hairs are common skin concerns where hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin, causing inflammation and irritation. They can mimic acne spots and may become infected if bacteria enter the follicle.
Causes and how they develop
Ingrown hairs often follow shaving, waxing, or plucking. Curly or coarse hair types are at higher risk. Dead skin build-up, tight clothing, and improper hair removal techniques can trap hair beneath the surface, triggering inflammation.
Symptoms and appearance
Typical signs include red or flesh-coloured bumps, tenderness, pus-filled spots, dark marks, and in some cases, scarring. They often appear on the face, legs, bikini line, and underarms.
Diagnosis and tests
Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on examination of the affected area. Other conditions such as acne, folliculitis, and keratosis pilaris may need to be excluded.
Expert Ingrown Hair Treatment in Central London
Book a consultation in Maida Vale for inflamed bumps, marks, or scarring caused by ingrown hairs. We offer medical skincare, laser treatment, and prevention plans tailored to your skin type.
Call Us Book ConsultationTreatment and management
Topical treatments
Anti-inflammatory creams, antibiotics for infection, and retinoids to promote cell turnover are commonly used to calm symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Exfoliation and chemical peels
Regular exfoliation with salicylic or glycolic acid can prevent hairs from becoming trapped. In resistant cases, dermatologist-led chemical peels may help.
Laser hair removal
Laser treatments reduce the density of hairs and prevent recurrence, particularly in chronic or severe cases.
Self-care and prevention
Shaving in the direction of hair growth, using clean razors, and avoiding overly tight clothing can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.
Why choose Skinhorizon for ingrown hairs?
- Dermatologist-led assessment to rule out infection and scarring complications.
- Advanced treatments including medical creams, peels, and laser therapy.
- Comprehensive aftercare and prevention strategies tailored to your needs.
Your first visit — what to expect
- History: Review of shaving practices, hair type, and previous treatments.
- Examination: Assessment of affected areas to exclude infection or scarring.
- Discussion: Education on safe hair removal and prevention techniques.
- Treatment plan: Personalised care plan including creams, peels, or laser hair removal.
- Follow-up: Monitoring of progress, treatment response, and long-term prevention.
Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 21 August 2025
Get expert help to manage painful ingrown hairs, prevent infection, and achieve clearer, healthier skin.
Call Us Book ConsultationIngrown Hairs FAQs
What are ingrown hairs and why do they occur?
Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows sideways or curls back into the skin, rather than outwards. This is usually due to shaving, waxing, or hair type (curly/coarse), and can lead to irritation, bumps, and infection.
What symptoms do ingrown hairs cause?
Symptoms include red or painful bumps, pus-filled spots, itching, tenderness, hyperpigmentation, and sometimes scarring if the condition is recurrent or severe.
Can ingrown hairs lead to complications?
Yes. Without treatment, ingrown hairs can cause folliculitis, bacterial infection, keloid scarring, and persistent dark marks on the skin.
How are ingrown hairs treated by dermatologists?
Treatments include topical retinoids, antibiotics for infection, exfoliating agents, chemical peels, and laser hair removal for chronic cases.
How can I prevent ingrown hairs from returning?
Preventive measures include shaving in the direction of growth, using clean sharp razors, avoiding tight clothing, and considering laser hair removal for long-term results.
