Lydia's Q: "I was wondering, what do you think is the best thing to do to get rid of ingrown hairs?"

SWAV Response:
This question is tough!

Everyone at some point or another has had to deal with the unsightly and possibly painful situation of ingrown hair. An ingrown hair, as you know, usually occurs when the hair is cut, like when you shave. The hair in turn grows back on an awkward angle into the skin, trapping oil and bacteria in the pore. This, ultimately causes a raised red spot or even an infected acne-like bump or whitehead.

Generally speaking, it is better to just prevent ingrown hairs rather than have to treat them. If you can opt for waxing instead of shaving, this may cut down the amount of ingrown hairs that you wind up having.

Otherwise, make sure you keep your skin moisturized, which will help with a number of things. Dry skin is easier to irritate with a razor! Shave responsibly, lol. Use a fresh, or remotely fresh, razor each time you shave. Also, be sure to lather up a rich shave gel (I like Gillette Satin Care in Wild Berry) and let it sink in for a bit before shaving the hair to soften it. Never, never, shave with JUST water... that is a disaster waiting to happen.

After hair removal, be sure you treat your skin! Apply a nice layer of Pure Aloe Vera Gel to soften and protect. Use your better judgment and don't apply anything too harsh or with too much fragrance after shaving, unless you know your skin can handle it.

If you have really bad ingrown hairs consistently, you may suffer from Folliculitis. This is a more serious problem and you will need a prescription cream (like Lotrisone) to treat it. If you begin the Lotrisone treatment, your problem should clear up within the week. Some salons and medi-spas also offer a laser treatment for this problem, which may be something to look into if you can afford it!

Aside from prescription strength and lasers, many brands in various price ranges offer products to relieve and prevent ingrown hairs. Bikini Zone, Kiehl's Ultimate Men's After-Shave Balm and Moisturizer, Anthony Logistics Ingrown Hair Treatment, Veet Anti-Ingrown Hair Cream, or Bliss Ingrown Hair Eliminating Peeling pads are all promising products that should do the trick!

Good luck!

Any more suggestions for Lydia? Product recommendations or ideas? Post 'em!