What causes ingrown hairs. How to identify symptoms of ingrown hairs. What are effective treatments for ingrown hairs. How to prevent ingrown hairs from occurring. When to see a doctor about ingrown hairs. What complications can arise from untreated ingrown hairs. Which areas of the body are most prone to ingrown hairs.

Understanding Ingrown Hairs: A Common Skin Concern

Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin instead of rising up from it. This common condition can affect anyone, but it’s particularly prevalent in individuals with curly or coarse hair. Ingrown hairs often result from hair removal methods like shaving, waxing, or tweezing, which can create sharp hair tips that easily pierce the skin.

Is an ingrown hair simply a cosmetic issue? While often harmless, ingrown hairs can lead to discomfort, inflammation, and in some cases, infection. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for managing this condition effectively.

Identifying the Causes of Ingrown Hairs

Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown hairs:

• Hair type: Curly or coarse hair is more prone to growing back into the skin
• Hair removal methods: Improper shaving techniques or close shaving can increase the risk
• Dead skin buildup: Clogged hair follicles force hair to grow sideways
• Tight clothing: Friction from tight garments can push hair back into the skin
• Hormonal factors: High levels of certain sex hormones can increase hair growth and ingrown hair risk

Do certain areas of the body have a higher risk of ingrown hairs? Yes, areas subject to frequent hair removal or friction are more susceptible, including the face, neck, legs, armpits, and pubic region.

Recognizing Symptoms of Ingrown Hairs

Identifying ingrown hairs early can help prevent complications. Common symptoms include:

• Raised, red bumps resembling pimples
• Itching or discomfort in the affected area
• Visible hair trapped beneath the skin’s surface
• Small, pus-filled blisters
• Skin darkening (hyperpigmentation) around the ingrown hair

Can ingrown hairs be mistaken for other skin conditions? Yes, they can sometimes be confused with acne or folliculitis. If you’re unsure about a skin issue, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.

Effective Treatments for Ingrown Hairs

While many ingrown hairs resolve on their own, some cases may require treatment. Here are some effective options:

1. Gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells
2. Application of warm compresses to soothe the area
3. Use of topical creams containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid
4. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream for inflammation
5. Careful removal of the ingrown hair with sterilized tweezers (only if the hair is visible and easily accessible)

Should you attempt to “dig out” an ingrown hair? No, this can lead to infection and scarring. If an ingrown hair is deeply embedded or shows signs of infection, it’s best to seek professional medical help.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most ingrown hairs can be managed at home, some situations warrant a visit to the doctor:

• Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus)
• Chronic or recurring ingrown hairs
• Ingrown hairs that cause significant pain or discomfort
• Development of scarring or skin discoloration

How do doctors treat severe cases of ingrown hairs? For persistent or complicated cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe:

• Topical or oral antibiotics to treat infection
• Steroid creams to reduce inflammation
• Retinoids to prevent ingrown hairs and reduce skin pigment changes
• Minor surgical procedures to release deeply embedded hairs

Preventing Ingrown Hairs: Practical Tips and Techniques

Prevention is key when it comes to ingrown hairs. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells
2. Use sharp, clean razors and replace them frequently
3. Shave in the direction of hair growth
4. Avoid close shaves; leave a small amount of stubble
5. Apply a moisturizing aftershave or lotion
6. Consider alternative hair removal methods like depilatory creams or laser hair removal

Is it better to shave wet or dry to prevent ingrown hairs? Wet shaving is generally recommended as it softens the hair and skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs. However, if using an electric razor, a dry shave may be more effective.

Exploring Alternative Hair Removal Methods

For those prone to ingrown hairs, exploring alternative hair removal methods can be beneficial:

• Depilatory creams: These dissolve hair at the skin’s surface, reducing the risk of sharp hair regrowth
• Epilators: While they may cause initial discomfort, epilators can lead to slower hair regrowth
• Laser hair removal: This method targets hair follicles, potentially providing a long-term solution
• Electrolysis: A permanent hair removal option that destroys hair follicles

Are there any natural remedies for preventing ingrown hairs? Some people find success with natural exfoliants like sugar scrubs or tea tree oil for its anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to patch test any new product and consult with a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin.

Understanding Complications of Untreated Ingrown Hairs

While most ingrown hairs are benign, leaving them untreated can sometimes lead to complications:

• Bacterial infections requiring antibiotic treatment
• Fungal infections in warm, moist areas
• Hyperpigmentation or skin darkening
• Scarring, especially from repeated inflammation or improper extraction attempts
• Pseudofolliculitis barbae, a chronic condition of inflamed, bumpy skin

Can ingrown hairs lead to more serious conditions? In rare cases, chronic ingrown hairs may contribute to the development of pilonidal cysts, particularly in the tailbone area. These cysts can become infected and may require surgical intervention.

The Link Between Ingrown Hairs and Pilonidal Cysts

Pilonidal cysts are pockets of hair and skin debris that typically form at the base of the tailbone. While the exact cause is debated, some medical professionals believe that chronic ingrown hairs can contribute to their development. These cysts can become painful, swollen, and infected, often requiring medical intervention.

How are pilonidal cysts treated? Treatment options range from conservative approaches like warm compresses and antibiotics to more invasive procedures such as incision and drainage or surgical removal of the cyst and surrounding tissue.

Special Considerations for Different Body Areas

Ingrown hairs can occur in various parts of the body, each presenting unique challenges:

Facial Ingrown Hairs

Men are particularly prone to facial ingrown hairs due to regular shaving. To minimize risk:

• Use a sharp, clean razor
• Shave in the direction of hair growth
• Consider using an electric razor or growing a beard

Pubic Area Ingrown Hairs

The pubic region is particularly susceptible to ingrown hairs due to the coarse, curly nature of the hair and frequent hair removal. Tips for prevention include:

• Trimming hair instead of shaving
• Using a fresh razor for each shaving session
• Applying a gentle moisturizer after hair removal

Leg and Underarm Ingrown Hairs

These areas often experience friction from clothing, increasing the risk of ingrown hairs. To reduce occurrence:

• Exfoliate regularly
• Use a moisturizing shave gel
• Consider long-term hair removal methods like laser treatment

Does the direction of hair growth affect the likelihood of ingrown hairs? Yes, shaving against the grain increases the risk of ingrown hairs. Always shave in the direction of hair growth, especially in sensitive areas.

The Role of Skincare in Preventing Ingrown Hairs

A good skincare routine can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown hairs:

1. Cleanse: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt and oil
2. Exfoliate: Regular exfoliation helps prevent dead skin cell buildup
3. Moisturize: Keep skin hydrated to maintain its barrier function
4. Protect: Use sunscreen to prevent darkening of ingrown hair spots

Are there specific ingredients to look for in skincare products for ingrown hair prevention? Look for products containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or tea tree oil, which can help exfoliate and reduce inflammation.

The Importance of Proper Hair Removal Techniques

Regardless of the method chosen, proper technique is crucial in preventing ingrown hairs:

• Prepare the skin: Cleanse and exfoliate before hair removal
• Use appropriate tools: Ensure razors are sharp and clean
• Apply lubrication: Use shaving cream or gel to reduce friction
• Post-removal care: Apply a soothing, alcohol-free aftershave or lotion

How often should you replace your razor? For optimal performance and hygiene, replace your razor or razor blade every 5-7 shaves or at the first sign of dullness.

The Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Ingrown Hairs

Several lifestyle factors can influence the occurrence of ingrown hairs:

• Clothing choices: Tight clothing can cause friction and push hair back into the skin
• Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins A and C can promote healthy skin
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin elasticity
• Stress management: High stress levels can affect hormone balance and potentially exacerbate skin issues

Can certain fabrics help prevent ingrown hairs? Yes, breathable, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibers like cotton can reduce friction and allow skin to breathe, potentially decreasing the risk of ingrown hairs.

The Connection Between Hormones and Ingrown Hairs

Hormonal fluctuations can impact hair growth patterns and skin sensitivity, potentially increasing the risk of ingrown hairs. This is particularly relevant during:

• Puberty
• Menstrual cycles
• Pregnancy
• Menopause

How can hormonal changes be managed to reduce ingrown hairs? While hormonal changes are natural, maintaining a consistent skincare routine and adapting hair removal methods during these periods can help minimize ingrown hairs.

Innovations in Ingrown Hair Prevention and Treatment

As skincare technology advances, new solutions for ingrown hair prevention and treatment continue to emerge:

• Advanced exfoliating products with enzyme-based formulas
• Specialized ingrown hair serums with targeted active ingredients
• Improved laser hair removal technologies for longer-lasting results
• Smart razors with built-in exfoliating or lubricating features

What future developments can we expect in ingrown hair management? Ongoing research into hair follicle biology and skin barrier function may lead to more effective prevention strategies and treatments in the coming years.

The Role of Professional Treatments

For persistent or severe cases of ingrown hairs, professional treatments may be beneficial:

• Chemical peels to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores
• Professional extractions performed by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist
• LED light therapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing
• Prescription-strength topical treatments for chronic cases

How often should one undergo professional treatments for ingrown hair management? The frequency of professional treatments depends on individual needs and should be determined in consultation with a skincare professional or dermatologist.

Understanding the Psychological Impact of Ingrown Hairs

While often considered a minor skin issue, chronic or severe ingrown hairs can have psychological effects:

• Reduced self-esteem due to visible bumps or scarring
• Anxiety about hair removal or wearing certain clothing
• Social discomfort, particularly in intimate relationships
• Frustration with recurring skin issues

How can one cope with the emotional aspects of dealing with ingrown hairs? It’s important to remember that ingrown hairs are a common issue affecting many people. Focusing on effective management strategies and seeking support from healthcare professionals or support groups can help alleviate psychological distress.

The Importance of Body Positivity

In the context of ingrown hairs and body hair management, embracing body positivity can be beneficial:

• Recognizing that some amount of body hair is natural and normal
• Understanding that perfect, hair-free skin is often an unrealistic standard
• Choosing hair removal methods (or choosing not to remove hair) based on personal comfort rather than societal pressure
• Focusing on overall skin health rather than solely on hair removal

How can one cultivate a positive body image while dealing with ingrown hairs? Practicing self-compassion, focusing on overall health and well-being, and surrounding oneself with supportive people can help foster a positive body image regardless of skin concerns.

Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Infections

Written by Stephanie Watson

• What Is an Ingrown Hair?
• Ingrown Hair Symptoms
• Common Areas for Ingrown Hairs
• Ingrown Hair Causes
• Ingrown Hair Complications
• Ingrown Hair Treatment
• Ingrown Hair Prevention
• More

An ingrown hair is one that’s grown back into your skin instead of rising up from it.

Sometimes, dead skin can clog a hair follicle. That forces the hair to grow sideways under your skin, rather than up and out. Or if you cut naturally curly hair too short, the sharpened end of the hair can pierce your skin, causing an ingrown hair.

An ingrown hair irritates your skin. You might notice:

• A raised red bump (or group of bumps) that’s like a little pimple
• A boil-like sore
• Itching
• Discomfort

You may have pus inside the bumps. Or you may see the hair under the skin that’s causing the problem.

Ingrown hairs often pop up in areas where you shave, including your:

• Face and neck
• Scalp
• Legs
• Armpits
• Chest
• Back
• Pubic area

Anyone can get an ingrown hair. But the problem is more common in people who have very curly or coarse hair. Curly hair is more likely to bend back and re-enter your skin, especially after it’s been shaved or cut.

People with high levels of certain sex hormones can have more hair than usual. This can make them more likely to get ingrown hairs, especially after shaving.

Many people who have thick or curly hair get a type of ingrown hair called pseudofolliculitis. More commonly known as “razor bumps,” this group of little bumps is common on the beard area after you’ve shaved, waxed, or tweezed to remove hair. The hair that grows back has a sharper edge, so it can more easily poke back through your skin and get trapped under the surface.

Often, an ingrown hair will go away on its own. But if it doesn’t, you could have:

• An infection
• Darkened skin
• Scarring

Some doctors believe that ingrown hairs also cause pilonidal cysts. These pockets of hair and skin debris usually happen at the base of your tailbone, between your buttocks. They can be swollen and painful. You might need surgery to treat them.

If an ingrown hair is bothering you or gets infected, your doctor can make a small cut with a sterile needle or scalpel to release it. They may also prescribe medicine such as:

• A steroid that you put on your skin to ease the swelling and irritation
• Retinoids (Retin-A) to remove dead skin cells and reduce skin pigment changes
• Antibiotics that you take by mouth or rub onto your skin to treat an infection

To prevent ingrown hairs, try these tips when you shave:

• Rub your face in a circular motion every day using a wet washcloth or an exfoliating scrub to tease out ingrown hairs.
• Shave with a sharp single-blade razor.
• Wet your skin with warm water before shaving, and use a lubricating gel.
• Shave in the same direction your hair is growing.
• Use as few strokes of the razor as possible. That lessens the chance of a hair slipping back into your skin.
• Rinse the blade with water after every stroke.
• Don’t shave too closely to your skin. Leave a little bit of stubble if you can.
• If you’re using an electric razor, hold it slightly above the surface of your skin.
• Apply a cool washcloth to your skin after you shave to soothe your skin.

You can also try other hair removal methods that are less likely to lead to ingrown hairs. Those include creams that dissolve hair and a laser or electric current (electrolysis) to remove the hair follicle for good.

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Ingrown hair: Treatment and prevention

Ingrown hairs can be painful and a nuisance. They typically affect people with thick, curly hair, and can become infected if left untreated. But, how should they be treated and can they be prevented?

Preventing ingrown hairs can often be managed at home, though there are times when a visit to the doctor may be appropriate.

This article explores ways to treat and prevent ingrown hairs, to reduce discomfort for people who experience them.

Share on PinterestIngrown hairs can appear anywhere on the body and may become infected if they are not treated.

An ingrown hair is a hair that has curled back into the skin instead of growing out of the skin’s surface. It is most common in people with thick, coarse, or curly hair types. Medically an ingrown hair is known as “pseudofolliculitis barbae.”

An ingrown hair can occur anywhere on the body. Ingrown hairs commonly occur in areas where the skin is shaved or subject to a lot of friction, including:

• beard
• legs
• underarms
• chest
• pubic area

Signs and symptoms of an ingrown hair are:

• itching skin or irritation surrounding the hair
• rashes
• razor burn

The site of the ingrown hair will form into a raised bump on the skin that may begin to look like a pimple. The bump will often turn reddish, become irritated and sensitive, and may fill with pus.

Anything that does not let the hair grow normally can cause ingrown hairs, and it is usually for one of the following reasons:

Improper hair removal

The most common cause of ingrown hairs is an improper shaving technique. Cutting hair very close to the skin creates a very sharp tip on the end of each of the hairs.

Most of these hairs will grow back out without a problem. However, some hairs can curl back on themselves and grow into the skin. When this happens, the body responds to the hair as if it were an intruder, causing inflammation, which is the typical symptom of an ingrown hair.

Shaving is not the only way ingrown hairs occur. Waxing and plucking hairs out also commonly cause ingrown hairs.

Plucked hair grows back through the follicle. As such, it may not make it all the way to the surface of the skin before turning and clogging the follicle.

Clogged follicles

It is also possible for hair follicles to become clogged by:

• dead skin
• dirt and debris.

When this happens, the hair in the follicle can become stuck or grow sideways into the skin, causing an ingrown hair. In some cases, the hair can be seen growing under the surface of the skin.

Friction

Friction caused by wearing tight clothing for extended periods of time can also cause ingrown hairs.

The friction caused by body movement throughout the day can also rub hairs against the skin continuously. This causes the hairs to turn around and push back into the follicle.

Ingrown hairs are irritating, but most of the time they can easily be treated in the home.

Using a warm washcloth or soft toothbrush

Share on PinterestApplying a warm washcloth to the ingrown hair and rubbing in a circular motion may help to uncurl the hair.

If waiting it out is not an option, there are other methods people may want to try. Hairs that have grown back into the follicle can be gently coaxed out using a warm washcloth and soft toothbrush.

After soaking a washcloth in warm water, apply it to the ingrown hair to warm and relax the pores and follicles. Rubbing the washcloth in a gentle circular motion may help uncurl the hair.

If this does not work, rubbing a very soft toothbrush in a similar motion over the area may help unclog the follicle and release the trapped hair.

Avoiding irritation

The first step to treating an ingrown hair is to stop doing things that may irritate it. People may need to stop shaving, waxing, or plucking the area around the ingrown hair.

Scratching an itchy ingrowing hair should also be avoided. Also, people should wear loose clothing on areas surrounding the hair to avoid friction.

These simple practices are often enough to make the ingrown hairs go away on their own. When a hair grows to about 10 millimeters in length, it will usually release itself from the follicle.

Using tweezers

Once any part of the hair appears above the skin line, a sterile needle or tweezers can be used to pull the hair straight.

Only do this once the hair is above the skin. Digging into the skin to pull the hair out can cause an infection.

It is also important not to pluck the hair out, as this increases the chance that the hair will be ingrown again as it grows back. The inflamed area surrounding the hair needs time to heal completely before removing the hair again.

Use gentle soaps to clean areas around the ingrown hair and prevent infection. Using natural exfoliates around the hair can also help remove dead skin cells. Exfoliating also helps clear the inflamed and irritated skin around the hair.

Sometimes ingrown hairs are irritating to deal with or become a regular problem. When this happens, some people stop removing hair in the problem area altogether.

Individuals who get ingrown hairs on their necks from shaving may switch to trimming instead. Problematic pubic hairs can be cut short instead of removed entirely to help prevent ingrown hairs. There are also a few products and treatments available to prevent these ingrown hairs.

However, if the problem is persistent, people should see their doctor for other preventive measures. These methods can include intense pulse light therapy or prescription creams to reduce hair growth. Such preventive measure can help decrease the risk of deeper infections and scarring.

Over the counter products

Share on PinterestDiluted tea tree oil may help to kill the bacteria and bring down the swelling of an ingrown hair.

There are also some over the counter products that may help stop or treat ingrown hairs.

Using creams with salicylic acid can help open the pores and follicles, preventing them from clogging.

Some reports note that diluted tea tree essential oil may help ingrowing hairs by:

• killing bacteria
• reducing redness
• bringing down swelling

Natural exfoliation

Some people regularly use homemade exfoliators to reduce ingrown hairs. Certain ingredients can be scrubbed into the skin to reduce dead skin cells. These products include:

• sugar
• coffee
• salt
• baking soda

Preparing for hair removal

Properly preparing for hair removal can also help prevent ingrown hairs. Before shaving, wash the area thoroughly with a gentle soap. Use a moisturizing shaving cream or gel to reduce friction.

When shaving, use a fresh razor that will make precise cuts. Dull blades leave jagged cuts that may increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Avoiding a close shave can also be helpful.

Alternative hair removal options

Some people turn to other ways of removing hair to avoid the risks of ingrown hairs that come with shaving, waxing, or plucking. These include:

• Laser hair removal: This can be an expensive process, but the results are usually semi-permanent hair loss and no ingrown hairs. Laser hair removal damages the hair follicle at a deep level, preventing hair from growing at all.
• Chemical hair removal: These products are also an option for some.
• Electrolysis: This is another more permanent form of hair removal. It is designed to destroy the root of the hair and requires several sessions.

Any of these methods may irritate the skin and should be and discussed with a dermatologist before use.

In most cases, ingrown hairs are treated at home and do not require medical attention. There are a few times when a doctor may need to be involved.

If the ingrown hair becomes infected, the bumps may continue to grow and fill with more pus. They may be more painful, red, and irritated than ever before. People who experience ingrown hair over large areas may require medical treatment as well.

If an ingrown hair becomes infected, the person may need to visit the doctor for treatment. A doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointments, steroid creams, or medicated washes to use on the area. In severe cases, a doctor may refer a person to a skin specialist.

Use topical treatments on the affected area only, as they can cause dry skin and other side effects. For severe infections, a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics.

Sometimes an ingrown hair is not infected, but it is very persistent. In cases like these, doctors may prescribe retinoids. Retinoids can help remove dead skin cells more quickly than just washing and exfoliating. Retinoids are not for everyone. Every medical treatment option should be discussed with a doctor or dermatologist before use.

How to get rid of ingrown hairs, tips and tricks – Epil Salon

How to get rid of ingrown hairs, tips and tricks – Epil Salon

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Beauty is, first of all, shiny hair, healthy complexion and smooth clear skin. But it is the last component that causes problems for most girls, because this is hard to achieve. Most often, excess hair is removed by shaving. Some people prefer to do waxing at home. From a medical point of view, both methods are far from the safest, since they cause unpleasant consequences: irritation and ingrown hairs.

Why is this happening?

Hair develops in the follicle and breaks out from under the skin. Ingrown hairs, as their name suggests, grow sideways under the skin or curl back down and grow into it. The following factors can prevent normal hair growth:

• rapid renewal of epithelial tissue;
• follicle clogged with dead skin cells;
• presence of infection in it;
• curly and thick hair on the body area;
• wearing tight clothing;
• incorrect hair removal.

Armpit and leg hair prone to ingrown hairs. But it is the pubic area that suffers most from this problem after shaving and bikini waxing at home, since the hair in this area is coarse.

An ingrown hair may look like a small pimple that grows into a large blemish on the body if it becomes infected. In addition, all this can be accompanied by unpleasant sensations – itching and pain.

How to get rid of ingrown hairs

It is better to stay away from using needles and tweezers. They leave wounds on the skin that take a long time to heal. It is more effective to regularly follow the recommendations below:

Advice 1. Before epilating, exfoliate the skin with a hard washcloth or scrub to get rid of dead cells. In this way it is convenient to treat large areas of skin (legs, arms, armpits). To prevent ingrown in sensitive areas of the bikini, it is advisable to use enzyme peels that exclude rough mechanical friction. They should be done the day before a shave or bikini wax is scheduled.

Tip 2. After hair removal, use products that soothe the skin, soften it and slow down hair growth.

Tip 3. Follow the correct hair removal technique. It is in the competent observance of the epilation technique that 70% of success in the fight against ingrown hairs lies. It’s hard to follow it on your own. Therefore, it makes sense to turn to a master who has a technique that has been developed over the years. He knows how to do waxing and how to take care of the client’s skin at home in the future.

Epilation in “Epil Salon” – smoothly and safely!

Find your own comfortable and convenient way to get rid of body hair. And if you want to try to do professional hair removal and compare the result with self-removal, then we will be glad to see you in our salon. Note that even the most painful methods of getting rid of hair are performed by our masters very carefully.

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Skin with hyperkeratosis or goose bumps – how to care

Last updated:

04/19/2023

It is not uncommon for epilators to encounter a problem when clients with hyperkeratosis arrive. It is difficult to work with such skin, the hair is removed worse, multiple ingrown hairs become a big problem.

Let’s see why hyperkeratosis occurs, and how to care for such skin.

Hyperkeratosis is a pathological process of the skin, which is characterized by damage to the mouths of the hair follicles and the formation of keratolytic plugs.

As a result, the stratum corneum of the dermis thickens and acquires an unaesthetic appearance. In the people, hyperkeratosis is called “goose bumps”.

The hair follicle is the “bulb” that contains the hair root. Nearby are the mouths of the sebaceous and sweat glands.

With hyperkeratosis, dead cells of the epidermis accumulate on the surface in excess and clog the mouths of the hair follicles.

Through such a dense skin, it is difficult for a growing hair to break through. As a result, the hair changes direction of growth and may grow down or sideways. In medicine, this condition is called an ingrown hair.

Affected follicles become inflamed, redden, and the skin is covered with small bright red spike-like nodules, dry and rough to the touch. More often, the skin on the face, thighs, forearms or directly in the depilation zone (in the armpits, bikini or lower legs) suffers.

All causes of skin lesions can be divided into 2 groups:

External:

• wearing clothes with coarse seams;
• regular hair removal;
• exposure to chemicals.

Internal:

• presence of other dermatological diseases – ichthyosis, psoriasis;
• circulatory disorders in the extremities – varicose veins, obliterating atherosclerosis;
• deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E.

An important role in the occurrence of pathology is played by heredity.

In a person who does not have a predisposition to hyperkeratosis, exposure to the above factors will not lead to a dermatological problem.

In prone persons, even a slight disturbance of microcirculation and innervation of the dermis activates the processes of cell division of the stratum corneum, leading to an increase in epidermis desquamation and thickening of the skin.

How to care for skin with hyperkeratosis

Skin prone to hyperkeratosis requires special care. It is recommended to apply creams for a long time and daily.

During an exacerbation, hormonal ointments are used. They help to stop the inflammatory process by blocking the action of the main inflammatory mediators – bradykinin, histamine, prostaglandin and others.

Hormonal agents also additionally soften the skin and contribute to the exfoliation of the horny scales of the epidermis.

Creams or ointments containing AHAs and BHAs may be used.

They have a softening and moisturizing effect, and even out the texture of the skin. Unlike hormonal ointments, they need to be used constantly.

Most often, creams with glycolic acid are prescribed. They reduce cohesion between corneocytes and promote deep cleansing of the skin.

The use of glycolic acid is not recommended during the warm season, such as spring or summer.

It increases the photosensitivity of the dermis and increases the risk of hyperpigmentation. In a hot period, it is better to purchase creams with lactic or mandelic acid.

Salicylic acid also has a good effect. Possessing a powerful keratolytic effect, it exfoliates dead epidermal cells and returns the skin to a smooth, shiny appearance.

Experienced dermatologists recommend adding fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E to problem skin care.

The lack of these substances in the body often leads to diseases of the dermis. They do not have a “peeling effect”, unlike acids, but allow dermatocytes to divide more actively and quickly replace the upper layer of the epidermis.

This prevents the accumulation of dead scales, and the aesthetic problem disappears. In addition, vitamins A and E additionally moisturize the skin and mucous membranes.

In the treatment of hyperkeratosis, the appointment of drugs with urea is justified.

Since the main cause of the disease is excessive loss of skin moisture, urea can solve this problem.

It is an excellent moisturizer and keratolytic at the same time, depending on the concentration of the substance: 10% urea saturates the skin with moisture, and 20% exfoliates epidermal cells.

With regular use of urea preparations, a long-term remission of the disease can be achieved.

Lymphatic drainage massage, moderate exposure to ultraviolet radiation and the use of warm salt baths have a good effect.

Article prepared by:

Author: Irina Zaichenko, therapist
Published by: Olesya Smagina, Assistant Director of Beauty Universe Hair Removal Centers

Sources:

1. Dermatovenereology. National leadership. Ed. Yu.K.