Depilation Routine: How to Prevent Ingrown Hair

Body hair is natural. However, this natural feature can cause significant discomfort for many women. Depilation is a quick and easy way to get rid of unwanted hair. But, let’s be honest, it’s far from the most pleasant experience, especially considering the nuances that often arise after the procedure: irritation, dryness, and the biggest issue – ingrown hair.

To minimize post-depilation struggles, we’ve prepared this step-by-step guide.

What to do before depilation?

A quality and comfortable depilation session doesn’t start when you pick up a razor (or wax); it begins with proper cleansing. Use mild, comfortable products like a scrub or shower gel to remove dirt, excess sebum, and dead skin cells, which often cause clogged pores and ingrown hairs. A good exfoliation beforehand will also help make hair removal easier, reducing the risk of irritation. If you use wax or sugar paste, this step will improve the results and make the process less painful.

Important: Don’t use a scrub on the day of depilation to avoid irritation.
Exfoliation should be done at least a day before the procedure, and then a few days after it.

How to depilate to minimize the risk of ingrown hair?

Yes, the method of depilation greatly affects whether ingrown hair will appear afterward. Here are a few tips to help minimize the unpleasant consequences for your skin after this procedure.

If you choose shaving:

• Shave in the direction of natural hair growth.
• Use a sharp razor to avoid irritation and cuts.
• Use shaving gels or foams to reduce friction and make the process more comfortable.
• Avoid repeatedly passing the blade over the same spot.

If you use wax:

• Moisturize your skin the day before the procedure, but avoid applying creams or oils on the day of waxing so that the wax grips the hair better.
• For effective waxing, hair should be at least 3-5 mm long. If it’s shorter, the wax won’t be able to grab it.
• Apply wax in the direction of hair growth in a thin layer, and remove it against the hair growth with a sharp motion while keeping the skin taut. This will help minimize pain and prevent potential skin damage.

What to do after depilation?

If you thought that removing hair is the last step and you can immediately go back to your daily routine, we have to disappoint you. If you want to enjoy the results and not suffer from the consequences, you’ll need to make a bit more effort.

Calm the skin
After depilation, your skin may be irritated, so it’s important to soothe it. The first 24 hours after the procedure are the most crucial. Avoid perfumed products, alcohol-based lotions, and tight clothing that can cause friction. Also, don’t sunbathe, take hot baths, or visit saunas right after. Instead, treat your skin with a light moisturizing gel or lotion (for example, with aloe vera) – they have calming, anti-inflammatory properties and hydrate the skin well.

Skincare between procedures

To prevent ingrown hair and keep your skin soft and smooth for as long as possible, it’s essential to care for it thoroughly between depilation sessions.

Regular moisturizing

To keep your skin elastic and soft, moisturize it regularly: right after depilation and after every shower. Use light, non-comedogenic creams or lotions. Hydrated skin helps hair grow properly and prevents it from becoming ingrown.

Regular exfoliation

To avoid ingrown hairs, it’s important to exfoliate the skin regularly. Use a gentle scrub once or twice a week, or try acid-based products. They help exfoliate dead skin cells and prevent follicle clogging.

Caution: Never use peels or scrubs right after depilation if you don’t want to cause irritation. Wait a few days until your skin has calmed down and is ready for more aggressive procedures.

Protection from the sun

After depilation, your skin becomes more sensitive to the sun, so if you plan to be outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen. This will help prevent pigmentation and premature skin aging.

What to do if ingrown hair has already appeared?

If hair has already grown inward, don’t panic. Here are a few steps to help you get rid of it:

• Use scrubs and acid-based products to exfoliate the skin (in separate routines).
• Use a light, soothing lotion to reduce inflammation and soften the skin.
• If the hair is deeply embedded, don’t try to squeeze or extract it yourself – better to see a cosmetologist.

By following these steps, you can enjoy smooth skin for a long time while minimizing the risk of ingrown hairs and skin irritation after depilation.