What are the common causes of a painful lump on the thigh. How can you identify the symptoms of a thigh lump. When should you seek medical attention for a thigh lump. What are the treatment options for painful thigh lumps.

Understanding Painful Lumps on the Thigh

Discovering a painful lump on your thigh can be concerning, but it’s essential to understand that most thigh lumps are not serious and can be easily treated. These lumps can vary in size, texture, and mobility, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, tenderness, or fever. Let’s explore the common characteristics and causes of painful thigh lumps to help you better understand your condition.

Common Characteristics of Painful Thigh Lumps

• Size: Can range from small to large
• Texture: May be soft or firm
• Mobility: Can be mobile (moves when touched) or fixed (stuck in place)
• Location: Often found on the inner thigh

What are the typical accompanying symptoms of a painful thigh lump? In addition to the lump itself, you may experience:

• Redness around the affected area
• Pain or tenderness when touched
• Numbness in the surrounding skin
• Warmth or heat in the area of the lump
• Fever (in some cases)

Common Causes of Painful Thigh Lumps

Understanding the potential causes of a painful thigh lump can help you determine whether your condition requires medical attention. Here are some of the most common reasons for developing a painful lump on your thigh:

1. Ingrown Hair Cysts

Ingrown hair cysts occur when hair grows back into the skin instead of emerging from the surface. This can lead to inflammation and the formation of a painful, fluid-filled cyst. These cysts are particularly common in areas where hair is frequently removed, such as the thighs.

2. Skin Abscesses

A skin abscess is a collection of pus that forms under the skin due to a bacterial infection. These can develop anywhere on the body, including the thigh, and often appear as a painful, swollen lump that may be warm to the touch.

3. Lipomas

Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors composed of fat cells. While they are typically painless, they can sometimes cause discomfort if they press on nearby nerves or if they grow large enough to create tension in the surrounding tissues.

4. Dermatofibromas

Dermatofibromas are small, firm growths that develop in the deeper layers of the skin. They are usually harmless but can be tender or painful when pressed.

5. Enlarged Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes in the groin area can become swollen and painful due to infections or other inflammatory conditions affecting the lower body.

Diagnosing the Cause of Your Thigh Lump

How can you determine the cause of your painful thigh lump? While a definitive diagnosis often requires professional medical evaluation, there are some factors you can consider:

• Duration: Is the lump short-term (lasting a few days) or persistent (lasting a week or more)?
• Growth: Has the lump remained the same size, or has it grown over time?
• Associated symptoms: Are you experiencing fever, severe pain, or spreading redness?

If you’re unsure about the cause or severity of your thigh lump, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many thigh lumps resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. When should you see a doctor for a painful thigh lump?

• If you’re experiencing a fever alongside the lump
• If the pain and swelling are severe or worsening
• If you notice redness spreading from the lump
• If you experience sudden loss of sensation in the area
• If the lump is large, growing, and feels fixed in place
• If you have persistent pain, redness, or numbness that doesn’t improve

It’s important to remember that early intervention can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

Treatment Options for Painful Thigh Lumps

The treatment for a painful thigh lump depends on its underlying cause. What are some common treatment approaches for thigh lumps?

At-Home Remedies

For minor cases, you can try the following at-home treatments:

• Applying warm compresses to promote drainage and reduce inflammation
• Using cold compresses to alleviate pain and swelling
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen
• Keeping the area clean and dry to prevent infection

Medical Treatments

If at-home remedies don’t provide relief or if the lump is more severe, medical treatments may include:

• Incision and drainage of abscesses or cysts
• Prescription antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Surgical removal of persistent or concerning lumps
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation

Your healthcare provider will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the specific cause and severity of your thigh lump.

Preventing Painful Thigh Lumps

While not all thigh lumps can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing certain types. How can you prevent painful thigh lumps?

• Practice good hygiene, especially when shaving or waxing the thigh area
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction and irritation
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support overall skin health
• Avoid picking at or squeezing existing bumps or ingrown hairs
• Use proper hair removal techniques to minimize the risk of ingrown hairs

By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of developing painful thigh lumps caused by common issues like ingrown hairs or minor skin infections.

Understanding Different Types of Thigh Lumps

Not all thigh lumps are created equal. Let’s explore some specific types of lumps you might encounter and their unique characteristics:

Boils

What exactly is a boil? A boil is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms under the skin due to a bacterial infection of a hair follicle. Boils on the thigh can be particularly uncomfortable due to friction from clothing or movement. They typically start as a small, red bump and can grow larger and more painful over time.

Cysts

How do cysts differ from other thigh lumps? Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop under the skin. Unlike boils, cysts are not typically caused by infection. They can vary in size and may or may not be painful. Some common types of cysts that can occur on the thigh include:

• Epidermoid cysts: Slow-growing bumps filled with keratin
• Sebaceous cysts: Formed when sebaceous glands become clogged
• Ganglion cysts: Fluid-filled lumps that often occur near joints or tendons

Hematomas

What causes a hematoma on the thigh? A hematoma is a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, usually caused by injury or trauma to the thigh. This can result in a painful, swollen lump that may change color over time as the blood is reabsorbed by the body.

Diagnostic Procedures for Thigh Lumps

When you visit a healthcare provider for a painful thigh lump, they may perform various diagnostic procedures to determine the cause. What are some common diagnostic methods used for thigh lumps?

• Physical examination: The doctor will visually inspect and palpate the lump to assess its size, texture, and mobility.
• Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging technique can help visualize the internal structure of the lump.
• MRI or CT scan: These advanced imaging methods may be used for more complex cases or when a more detailed view is necessary.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of tissue may be taken from the lump for laboratory analysis.
• Blood tests: These can help identify any underlying infections or inflammatory conditions.

The specific diagnostic approach will depend on the characteristics of your thigh lump and your overall health history.

Long-Term Management of Recurrent Thigh Lumps

For some individuals, painful thigh lumps may be a recurring issue. How can you manage chronic or recurrent thigh lumps?

1. Identify triggers: Keep a journal to track potential factors that may contribute to the development of lumps, such as certain activities or clothing choices.
2. Maintain good skin hygiene: Regular cleansing and exfoliation can help prevent ingrown hairs and minor skin infections.
3. Consider hair removal alternatives: If shaving or waxing seems to trigger lumps, explore other hair removal methods or consider leaving the hair natural.
4. Manage underlying conditions: Some medical conditions, such as hidradenitis suppurativa, can cause recurrent painful lumps. Work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively.
5. Follow-up care: Attend regular check-ups with your dermatologist or primary care physician to monitor your skin health and address any concerns promptly.

By implementing these strategies, you can minimize the frequency and severity of painful thigh lumps and improve your overall quality of life.

Emotional Impact of Painful Thigh Lumps

While the physical aspects of painful thigh lumps are often the primary concern, it’s important to acknowledge the potential emotional impact as well. How can thigh lumps affect your mental well-being?

• Body image concerns: Visible lumps may cause self-consciousness or affect body image.
• Anxiety: Worrying about the cause or potential seriousness of the lump can lead to anxiety.
• Discomfort in social situations: Pain or visibility of the lump may make some individuals hesitant to participate in certain activities.
• Frustration with recurrent issues: For those experiencing chronic or recurrent lumps, there may be feelings of frustration or helplessness.

If you find that thigh lumps are significantly impacting your emotional well-being, don’t hesitate to discuss these concerns with your healthcare provider. They may be able to offer additional support or referrals to mental health professionals if needed.

Remember, while painful thigh lumps can be bothersome, most are benign and treatable. By staying informed, practicing good skin care, and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can effectively manage this common skin concern and maintain your overall health and well-being.

Painful Lump on Thigh | What You Need to Know & How to Treat

A painful bump or lump on the thigh can also appear red, small or large, and often be located on the inner thigh. Most commonly, bumps on the inner thigh are caused by infected ingrown hairs, boils, cysts, or a swollen lymph node. Other causes include trauma to the thigh or abnormal cell growth like lipoma.

5 most common causes

Skin Abscess

Illustration of a person thinking with cross bandaids.

Skin cyst

Illustration of a health care worker swabbing an individual.

Lipoma

Dermatofibroma

Illustration of a person thinking with cross bandaids.

Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin

Painful thigh lump quiz

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Most common questions

There are several potential causes of a painful thigh lump, including a muscle strain, abscess, cyst, tumor, hematoma, or lymph node swelling, among others. It is best to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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Having a painful thigh lump is not necessarily an emergency, but if you are also experiencing a fever, severe or worsening pain and swelling, redness that is spreading, or sudden loss of sensation, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention. If there is mild redness, pain, numbness that does not seem to be resolving, or the lump is growing and doesn’t move you should be seen by a medical professional.

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If the painful thigh lump is small and resolves on its own, it is typically not serious and does not require a visit to the doctor. However, if the lump is large, associated with redness, pain, and numbness that does not seem to be resolving, or if it is growing and feels fixed, it should be evaluated by a medical professional.

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At-home remedies such as warm and cold compresses and over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs can help alleviate symptoms. However, if the lump does not resolve or worsens, medical treatment may be necessary, including incision and drainage, antibiotics, or surgery. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if there is severe or worsening pain and swelling, redness that is spreading, fever, or sudden loss of sensation.

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Painful lump on thigh symptoms

It’s not uncommon to notice lumps and bumps on different parts of your body, but finding a new lump, especially a painful one, can be alarming. However, there are many potential causes for painful thigh lumps; while most causes are not serious and easily treatable, some require medication or the advice of a medical professional.

Common characteristics of a painful thigh lump

A lump or swelling located just under the skin in your thigh can be:

• Large or small
• Soft or firm
• Mobile: This means it moves when you touch or press it.
• Fixed: This means it feels stuck in its location.

Common accompanying symptoms of a painful thigh lump

These lumps can also be associated with:

• Redness
• Pain or tenderness
• Numbness
• Skin that feels hot to the touch in the area of the lump
• Fever

Duration of symptoms

A thigh lump may be a short- or long-term occurrence depending on the cause.

• A thigh lump may last for only a few days before resolving on its own or you may notice it persist for a week or more.
• You may notice that a thigh lump that is persistent seems to grow over time as well.

Are painful thigh lumps serious?

Painful thigh lumps can vary in severity and can be evaluated by the following.

• If it is self-resolving: A small thigh lump that resolves on its own is typically not serious.
• If you also have a fever: A large lump that is associated with redness, pain, and numbness that does not seem to be resolving should be seen by a medical professional, especially if you also have a fever.
• If it is growing or fixed: Lumps that are growing and feel fixed should be evaluated by a medical professional.

What causes a painful lump or knot on the thigh?

There are many potential causes for painful thigh lumps. Typically, these are due to certain skin conditions. Less commonly, thigh lumps can be a symptom of abnormal growths. How serious the painful thigh lump is is dependent on the cause.

Infections

There are many parts of the superficial skin that can become infected, causing a painful thigh lump, as well as the possibility of an infection within your body, fought by lymph nodes.

• Infected hair follicles: The areas where each of your hair strands grow out of your skin are called follicles. When a follicle gets infected, usually due to a bacterial or fungal cause, it can lead to folliculitis, defined by areas of red, painful, swollen skin.
• Cellulitis: This is a condition in which an open cut (visible or not) on your skin becomes infected due to exposure.
• Abscess: A skin infection can eventually turn into an abscess which is a pocket of pus.
• Lymph node enlargement: Your lymph nodes are small glands where the cells that fight off infections live. In reaction to the infection in and around your thigh area, they can grow in size and appear as a thigh lump.

Trauma

Painful thigh lumps can also be caused by trauma. If you remember bumping your thigh into something, being bitten by an insect, or coming into contact with a sharp object, your thigh lump may be your body’s reaction to the trauma.

Abnormal cell growth

Your body is made up of many cells that are constantly growing and dividing. Usually, your body is good at making sure the cells are growing normally, but sometimes you might develop abnormal growths. Thigh lumps can be due to the following types of abnormal cell growth:

• Abnormal fat cell growth
• Abnormal bone, cartilage, muscle or tendon cell growth
• Abnormal skin and hair follicle cell growth

This list does not constitute medical advice and may not accurately represent what you have.

Skin abscess

A skin abscess is a large pocket of pus that has formed just beneath the skin. It is caused by bacteria getting under the skin, usually through a small cut or scratch, and beginning to multiply. The body fights the invasion with white blood cells, which kill some of the infected tissue but form pus within the cavity that remains.

Symptoms include a large, red, swollen, painful lump of pus anywhere on the body beneath the skin. There may be fever, chills, and body aches from the infection.

If not treated, there is the risk of an abscess enlarging, spreading, and causing serious illness.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination.

A small abscess may heal on its own, through the body’s immune system. But some will need to be drained or lanced in a medical provider’s office so that the pus can be cleaned out. Antibiotics are usually prescribed.

Keeping the skin clean, and using only clean clothes and towels, will help to make sure that the abscess does not recur.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: rash with bumps or blisters, red rash, red skin bump larger than 1/2 cm in diameter, pus-filled rash, rash

Symptoms that always occur with skin abscess: rash with bumps or blisters

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Skin cyst

A cyst is a small sac or lump, filled with fluid, air, fat, or other material, that begins to grow somewhere in the body for no apparent reason. A skin cyst is one that forms just beneath the skin.

It’s believed that skin cysts form around trapped keratin cells – the cells that form the relatively tough outer layer of the skin.

These cysts are not contagious.

Anyone can get a skin cyst, but they are most common in those who are over age 18, have acne, or have injured the skin.

Symptoms include the appearance of a small, rounded lump under the skin. Cysts are normally painless unless infected, when they will be reddened and sore and contain pus.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination. A small cyst can be left alone, though if it is unsightly or large enough to interfere with movement it can be removed in a simple procedure done in a doctor’s office. An infected cyst must be treated so that the infection does not spread.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: skin-colored armpit bump, marble sized armpit lump, small armpit lump

Symptoms that always occur with skin cyst: skin-colored armpit bump

Urgency: Wait and watch

Severe skin abscess

A skin abscess is an infection of the deeper skin that’s typically due to bacteria seen on the skin. Recently, infections are more frequently caused by Staph. Aureus (puts the “staph” in “staph infections”). If the infection begins to spread, urgent treatment is required.

You should head to the nearest ER by car since your infection seems like it might be spreading. It is likely that you will be prescribed antibiotics. Surgery may be required to get rid of the whole abscess after the inflammation has died down. Do not drain the abscess yourself.

Rarity: Rare

Top Symptoms: fatigue, fever, painful neck lump, marble-size neck lump, pink or red neck bump

Symptoms that always occur with severe skin abscess: pink or red neck bump, red bump

Urgency: Hospital emergency room

Lipoma

Lipoma is a word that translates as “fatty tumor,” but a lipoma is not cancer. It is simply a growth of fat between the muscle layer and the skin above it.

The exact cause is not known. The condition does run in families and is associated with other unusual syndromes such as adiposis dolorosa, which is similar. Lipomas most often appear after age 40.

Symptoms include a soft, easily moveable lump beneath the skin, about two inches across. A lipoma is painless unless its growth is irritating the nerves around it. They are most often found on the back, neck, and abdomen, and sometimes the arms and upper legs.

It is a good idea to have any new or unusual growth checked by a medical provider, just to make certain it is benign.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination, biopsy, and imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan.

Most of the time, treatment is not necessary unless the lipoma is unsightly or is interfering with other structures. It can be removed through surgery or liposuction.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: skin-colored groin bump, marble sized groin lump, small groin lump

Symptoms that always occur with lipoma: skin-colored groin bump

Urgency: Wait and watch

Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin

Enlarged lymph nodes occur when the node becomes larger as it fills with inflammatory cells. This often is a result of an infection but can occur without a known cause.

You should discuss with a health care provider whether or not your lymph node needs to be checked. Enlarged lymph nodes will usually shrink on their own. To speed up the process, try applying a warm, wet compress to the affected area.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: groin lump, movable groin lump

Symptoms that always occur with enlarged lymph nodes in the groin: groin lump

Symptoms that never occur with enlarged lymph nodes in the groin: fever, unintentional weight loss, hard groin lump

Urgency: Phone call or in-person visit

Dermatofibroma

A dermatofibroma is a fairly common skin growth that usually appears on the lower legs, but may appear anywhere on the body. These mole-like growths are benign (noncancerous.)

The cause is not known, though a dermatofibroma may appear after a minor injury. The growths are not contagious.

Dermatofibromas are most common in adults and are rarely found in children.

Symptoms include a hard, raised growth that is red, pink, or brown and less than half an inch across. They are usually painless but may be tender or itchy, and may appear alone or in groups.

Any new growth on the skin should be seen by a medical provider, especially if the growth is very dark in color or changes its shape or appearance quickly.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination and sometimes biopsy.

A dermatofibroma does not require treatment unless it is interfering with clothing or is unsightly. They can be surgically removed, though this will leave a scar and the growth may eventually return.

How to treat a painful lump or knot on the thigh

As long as your pain is not serious, there are several at-home remedies you can try to alleviate symptoms. If those are not effective, you can consult your physician for further medical treatment.

At-home treatments for a painful thigh lump

Certain at-home treatments are available to combat painful thigh lumps.

• Warm and cold compresses: These can help reduce pain and swelling if your thigh lump is due to an infectious cause or trauma.
• Over-the-counter medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil, Motrin, Naproxen and aspirin can help reduce pain, swelling, and redness because they work by reducing inflammation in your body. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can also help with pain and fever but does not treat the inflammation.

Medical treatments for a painful thigh lump

If you do not find relief with the measures above and your thigh lump has not resolved, consult your physician. They may recommend the following measures.

• Incision and drainage: If your thigh lump is caused by an infection that has caused a collection of pus under your skin, a medical professional may need to cut a small hole (incision) in the skin overlying the bump in order to drain the pus collection.
• Antibiotics: You may also be prescribed anantibiotic in a pill or cream/ointment form in order to fight the infection if your thigh lump is due to a bacterial or fungal cause.
• Surgery: If your thigh lump is caused by an abnormal growth of cells, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the lump, assess what kind of cells are causing it, and determine whether the lump is cancerous or not.

When a painful thigh lump is an emergency

Seek immediate medical attention in the emergency room or call 911 for the following:

• Severe or worsening pain and/or swelling
• Redness that is worsening or spreading around the lump
• Fever
• Sudden loss of sensation

FAQs about painful thigh lump

Why is my thigh lump painful?

The pain you’re feeling depends on the cause of the thigh lump. Thigh lumps caused by infection may be painful because the body’s immune response is reacting to the infection, and you feel pain because your body is alerting you that something is wrong. If it does not resolve soon, you should seek medical attention.

Why is my pain still persisting after my injury?

If your thigh lump is due to trauma, the pain you’re feeling is most likely the aftermath of the damage caused to the area in and around the lump. If your pain doesn’t get any better or gets worse, seek the attention of a medical provider.

Will my thigh lump go away on its own?

It depends. If your lump is due to abnormal cell growth, it might stay the same, grow or shrink. If it is caused by infection, it might go away on its own as your body fights it, or it might go away with some over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like Advil or Motrin.

Do thigh abscesses ever resolve on their own?

If the infection has caused a collection of pus (an abscess) to form, it might go away, but typically this requires draining by a medical professional. Any lump that persists or grows over time should be seen by a medical provider.

Why is my thigh lump growing?

Your thigh lump may be growing due to fluid collecting in and around the area of the lump. If your thigh lump is due to trauma, you can often experience swelling around the injured area, but this swelling should decrease over time. A thigh lump due to infection may grow as pus collects in the lump under the skin or as lymph nodes enlarge in reaction to the infection. A lump can also grow if abnormal cells are building up, and these cells can either be cancerous or non-cancerous. A thigh lump that is growing rapidly in size or persistently grows should be medically evaluated.

Questions your doctor may ask about painful thigh lump

• What color is the bump?
• Any fever today or during the last week?
• Do you have a rash?
• Is there something coming out of the bump?

Self-diagnose with our free Buoy Assistant if you answer yes on any of these questions.

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Dr. Rothschild has been a faculty member at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He currently practices as a hospitalist at Newton Wellesley Hospital. In 1978, Dr. Rothschild received his MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin and trained in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in critical care medicine. He also received an MP…

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Medically reviewed by Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on April 7, 2021

An ingrown hair bump, or cyst, extends from the skin’s surface and deep underneath it. It usually looks like a red pimple with a hair on its surface.

In some instances, an ingrown hair can cause a cyst, resulting in an ingrown hair cyst. Other types of bumps, such as pseudofolliculitis barbae and pimples, may also be mistaken for ingrown hair cysts.

Keep reading to learn what causes these skin conditions to form, plus how to treat them and prevent them from returning.

As the name suggests, ingrown hair cysts start off as ingrown hairs.

At first, you might notice a small pimple-like bump with a hair at its surface. It may also be red in color.

Over time — if the ingrown hair doesn’t go away — the small bump can transform into a much larger one. The resulting bump can be red, white, or yellow. It may also be painful to the touch.

Identifying pseudofolliculitis barbae

Although it’s possible for cysts to develop near ingrown hairs, most bumps that form near ingrown hairs are likely to be caused by pseudofolliculitis barbae, also known as razor bumps.

Razor bumps can occur anywhere on your body, but they’re more likely to develop in areas that are prone to ingrown hairs, including your:

• armpits
• face
• head
• neck
• legs
• pubic region

Identifying cystic acne

Ingrown hair cysts and razor bumps may also resemble cystic acne.

While an infected ingrown hair cyst starts off as a regular ingrown hair, acne cysts are caused by a combination of bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells that accumulate deep under the hair follicle.

Cystic acne can be widespread in one area, such as your back or face. Ingrown hair cysts, on the other hand, are smaller in number and contained — you may just have one.

Improper hair removal techniques may lead to these bumps.

Whether you shave, wax, or tweeze, removing hair isn’t always trouble-free. The process itself can cause swelling, which may irritate your skin and lead to razor bumps and cysts.

Removing a hair can also cause the new hair that grows in its place to grow in incorrectly. The new hair may grow sideways and eventually curl back down.

When this happens, the hair follicle can close over the hair so it becomes stuck, or ingrown. The skin responds by becoming inflamed, treating the curled-back hair as a foreign object.

Razor bumps are most common in Black men and people who shave.

You may also be at greater risk for developing bumps with ingrown hairs if you have naturally curly hair.

In most cases, you won’t need to see a healthcare professional for these types of bumps and cysts. OTC treatments can usually help coax the hair out.

If the bumps or cysts become extremely bothersome — or if they aren’t fading — see a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

They can drain the cyst and remove the ingrown hair. You can book an appointment with a dermatologist in your area using our Healthline FindCare tool.

You should also see a healthcare professional if you suspect an infection. Signs of infection include:

• pus oozing from the bump or cyst
• increased redness
• itchiness
• increased pain
• foul odor
• swelling
• fever

Razor bumps and ingrown hair cysts can take several days or even weeks to fully clear up on their own. Timely treatment can help get rid of them and prevent them from returning.

Cystic acne will likely require prescription acne treatments.

If ingrown hairs continue to form, see a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying causes. They may also recommend more permanent hair removal methods, such as laser hair removal, to help reduce your risk for ingrown hairs and bumps.

The only way you can prevent ingrown hairs from occurring at all is to refrain from hair removal altogether.

Hair removal methods that don’t require shaving are less likely to result in ingrown hairs, but they don’t necessarily get rid of the problem entirely. If you’re prone to getting ingrown hairs, you may still be at mild risk even with some of these methods.

The best way to reduce the incidence of ingrown hairs is to stop tweezing, plucking, and waxing the hairs until the ingrown hair has made its way out by itself or with the help of a professional.

If you do decide to remove the hair yourself, practice smart hair removal to reduce your chance of ingrown hairs.

At-home hair removal tips

• Only use sharp razors. Dull razors may not cut hair straight, which can cause the hairs to curl back into the skin.
• Shave with warm, not hot, water.
• Replace your disposable razor every 6 weeks.
• Always use shaving cream, shaving gel, or some other lubricant.
• Tweeze in the direction of hair growth only.
• Avoid overwaxing. You’ll need to let your hair grow out to be as long as an uncooked grain of rice before you can safely remove it again.
• Apply body lotion after every hair removal session.

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Last medically reviewed on April 7, 2021

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Hair removal. (2016).
  kidshealth.org/en/teens/hair-removal.html
• Ingrown hairs. (2019).
  nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-hairs
• Oakley A, et al. (2016). Folliculitis barbae and pseudofolliculitis barbae.
  dermnetnz.org/topics/folliculitis-barbae
• Pseudofolliculitis barbae. (n.d.).
  aocd.org/page/pseudofolliculitisb

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Apr 7, 2021

Written By

Kristeen Cherney, PhD

Edited By

Ashley Williams

Medically Reviewed By

Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C

Copy Edited By

Stassi Myer – CE

Mar 8, 2019

Written By

Kristeen Cherney, PhD

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Medically reviewed by Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on April 7, 2021

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Ingrown hair – can an ingrown hair happen due to shaving and how is a pilonidal cyst treated?

Ingrown hair on the medical tongue – pilonidal cyst (also known as epithelial coccygeal duct) is a subcutaneous pocket containing sloughing layers of hair and skin.

“Ingrown hair” almost always occurs in the coccyx region, above the dividing line of the buttocks (between the buttocks). However, this does not exclude the risk that ingrown hairs on the leg, arm, and armpit may occur.

As for the common notion that ingrown hairs can happen while shaving, the situation is different. During shaving, it is quite possible to damage the skin layer, and, as a result, infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, the hair root, occurs. Infection can cause purulent inflammation of the hair root, furuncle, or carbuncle, as well as suppuration of the skin and soft tissues, although this is a different phenomenon.

According to scientists, ingrown hair is a congenital pathology that is formed during the process of embryonic development, although even the person who, due to the specifics of work, spends most of the day motionless is not immune from ingrown hair. Pathology has nothing to do with genetics.

According to statistics, pilonidal cysts are most common in men.

Lasha Silogava, head of the proctological department of the National Center of Surgery, oncosurgeon, endoscopist, spoke about the pilonidal cyst.

– Mr. Lasha, what are the symptoms of a pilonidal cyst?

– Despite the fact that the pathology is congenital, patients do not experience any symptoms of this disease for years. As a rule, they go to the doctor when the pathology is in the process of exacerbation, and irritation is caused by trauma, decreased immunity and other diseases.

– What should we know about risk factors for ingrown hairs?

– Risk factors for causing pathology include:

• Trauma to the coccyx-sacral region and perineum;
• Local infectious processes;
• Inflammatory process of various organs or systems that the patient suffered in a severe clinical form;
• Non-compliance with personal hygiene.

– What should you know about ingrown hairs?

– Yes, three forms of “ingrown hair” or pilonidal cyst (epithelial coccygeal tract) are distinguished from each other: acute, chronic and chronically recurrent.

Therefore, the clinical symptoms are directly related to the specific form.

Symptoms of a purulent (acute) pilonidal cyst:

• Severe pain;
• Puffiness;
• Hyperemia, i. e. skin redness;
• Increase in body temperature up to 38-39degrees;
• Chill;
• Signs of intoxication;
• General weakness.

Chronic pilonidal cyst symptoms:

• Periodic pain;
• Periodic swelling and hyperemia with fever;
• Constant dampness, intermittent suppuration;
• Presence of one primary and several secondary passages;
• Irritation of nearby skin in the form of dermatitis;
• Constant discomfort;
• Change in mood, irritability;
• Insomnia;
• Decreased ability to work.

– Based on what data is a pilonidal cyst diagnosed?

– In all three forms of pathology, the diagnosis is based on the following data:

1. Anamnesis;
2. Physical data;
3. Clinical symptoms of the disease.

At the National Center of Surgery, we use both visual, manual and instrumental, as well as laboratory methods of research.

– How do you treat ingrown hairs at the National Center of Surgery?

– All three forms can only be treated with surgery. Medication can only temporarily anesthetize. It is unacceptable to self-medicate at home. As for the rehabilitation process, in both cases, with an exacerbation of an acute or chronic process, after a surgical intervention, the patient stays in the clinic for 1 day.

We wish you good health!

Ingrown Hair

Ingrown Hair Cyst: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

An ingrown hair occurs when a strand of hair grows down instead of up and gets under the skin. Sometimes a cyst can develop if we allow it to progress. This can range from a small, painless bump to a large, infected growth.

If the doctor makes a diagnosis, they can call him. epidermoid or coccygeal cyst . Ingrown hairs are not usually dangerous, but can be very painful if left untreated. If the infection is not treated, it can get worse or get into the blood.

Index

• 1 What is an ingrown hair cyst?
  • 1.1 Beard pseudofolliculitis
  • 1.2 cystic acne
  • 1.3 ingrown pubic hair
• 2 How do you know if you are infected?
• 3 Causes of it
• 4 Differences between a cyst and a pimple
• 5 Ingrown hair cyst treatment
  • 5.1 What should not be done?
  • 5.2 Home remedies
• 6 Should I go to the doctor?
• 7 Can an ingrown hair cyst be prevented?
  • 7.1 Prepare area to shave
  • 7.2 Use single blade razor
  • 7.3 Laser epilation to prevent ingrown hairs

What is an ingrown hair cyst?

As the name suggests, ingrown hair cysts start as hairs that get stuck in the skin. At first, you may notice a small pimple on the surface. Although it may be red and not have the appearance of a grain with a head. When a bump appears in an area where there is body hair, it may be because a cyst has formed around the ingrown hair. Look for a small red bump with hair that is slowly growing into a big bump. Many of these cysts develop in itchy areas.

Over time, if the ingrown hair does not go away, the small bump can grow into a much larger one. The resulting lump may be red, white or yellow. It may even be painful to the touch. An ingrown hair cyst looks like a pimple, although it can grow. They can be red, yellow or white. And they can be found anywhere, but they are usually the areas where we shave, such as the face, pubic area, or armpits.

Beard pseudofolliculitis

Although cysts can develop near ingrown hairs, most bumps that form near ingrown hairs are caused by beard pseudofolliculitis, also known as razor bumps. Cysts can occur anywhere on your body, but they are more likely to develop in areas prone to ingrown hairs, such as:

• armpits
• Face
• head
• Neck
• Legs
• pubic area

cystic acne

Ingrown hair cysts and bumps may also resemble cystic acne. While an infected ingrown hair cyst starts out like a normal ingrown hair, acne cysts are caused by a combination of bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells that accumulate deep beneath the hair follicle.

Also, this type of acne can be spread to one area, such as the back or face. Ingrown hair cysts, on the other hand, are smaller and localized; so you can only have one.

Ingrown pubic hair

This happens when your pubic hair grows back into the skin instead of rising to the surface. This can happen when you shave, wax, or shave.

As ingrown hairs develop, you may notice small round bumps called papules. If they contain pus inside, they are called pustules. In some cases, if the skin around an ingrown hair darkens, this is called hyperpigmentation.

There may also be cases of pain or itching around the area of ​​the ingrown hair. Some people may be at higher risk for ingrown hairs. For example, people with thick curly hair are more likely to develop ingrown hairs than people with thin hair. This is especially noticeable in intimate hair as it tends to be thicker than hair on the head or the rest of the body.

How do you know if you are infected?

An ingrown hair infection may start as a red bump. As the infection progresses, we may see the pus and lump increase. The area around an infected ingrown hair may also feel red and irritated, swollen, itchy, or warm to the touch.

Some ingrown hairs occur when there are too many dead cells on the surface of the skin. These cells can inadvertently clog hair follicles. They are most common in hair removal areas such as the face, legs, armpits, and pubic area. They are also more common in men who shave their beards. Shaving and waxing create sharper hairs that tend to get stuck in the skin.

We may even be at greater risk of infections if our hair is naturally thick or curly. This type of hair is more likely to grow back into the skin when it grows back after waxing.

If the infection is mild or infrequent, we can use home remedies. For example, washing and lightly rubbing the area to separate the hair from the follicle and skin, applying tea tree oil to ease an infection, or using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching.

If the infection does not go away with home treatment, we will contact a doctor. They may prescribe medications to treat the infection and remove the hair. For example, prescription steroid creams can reduce inflammation, and prescription antibiotic creams can treat infection.

Causes of it

The only factor causing this skin problem is the wrong hair removal technique. if you shave with the blade, the wax or razor may clump. Hair removal does not always solve problems. The process itself can cause swelling, which can irritate the skin, leading to bumps and cysts.

Hair removal can also cause abnormal growth of new hair that grows in that area. New hair can grow sideways or even curve down. When this happens, the hair follicle can close on the hair so that it becomes clogged or ingrown. As a consequence, the skin becomes inflamed, treating curly hair like a foreign object.

Ingrown hair cysts are more common in black men and people who shave. Although you may also be at a higher risk of developing ingrown hairs if you have naturally curly hair.

Differences between a cyst and a pimple

In many cases, it can be difficult to tell the difference between an ingrown hair cyst and a pimple. If you have a “pimple” that never seems to heal, resist the temptation to pop it because it could be a benign cyst. Many patients seek dermatological care after finding a tumor that can fluctuate in size. Sometimes it gets their attention because the area is inflamed or tender. This growth may be the result of the development of a cyst on the skin.

A cyst is a dome-shaped tumor containing liquid or semi-fluid material in a closed tissue pocket. It may feel firm or oscillating (unstable) and the skin over it stretches and looks like a bump. Ingrown hair cysts are common and are mostly benign (not cancerous).

There are many different types of cysts and they can vary in appearance depending on their type and location. Cysts can form anywhere in the body; common locations include the face, scalp, shoulders, and back. Cysts can also develop in the genital area.

Treatment of ingrown hair cysts

The main goal of treatment is to reduce surrounding inflammation and reduce the risk of infection. Possible treatments for ingrown hair cysts include moisturizing the skin and stopping waxing allowing the ingrown hairs to grow.

drugs Over-the-counter medicines that contain benzoyl peroxide or retinoids can reduce inflammation and reduce the size of ingrown hairs or cysts. Prescription acne medications may be needed if over-the-counter methods don’t work for pus-filled pimples or ingrown hair cysts. For example, a healthcare professional may prescribe a steroid cream, such as hydrocortisone, to help reduce redness and pain around a lump or cyst.

Cystic acne is unlikely to go away without the help of prescription medications, but should only be used on the advice of a professional. You need to know the severity and if there are other types of options.

The ultimate goal of treating ingrown hairs is to reduce their appearance by exfoliating and moisturizing the skin. Soaps and body lotions made with mild glycolic acid will help. However, once an ingrown hair cyst becomes inflamed and fluctuates in size, an incision and drainage may be needed to shrink the cyst and remove the ingrown hair.

What should not be done?

Under no circumstances should an ingrown hair cyst be removed as this may increase the risk of infection and scarring. You also shouldn’t try to lift the hair with tweezers as if it were a regular ingrown hair. At this point, the hair is too deeply stuck under the bump or cyst for you to pull it out. In addition, without the necessary surgical material, you again increase the risk of infection.

Instead, you should try to reduce the bumps and cysts by gently rubbing them with a warm washcloth a couple of times a day, working your way up.

At home we will try to let the bump heal on its own. We can help by avoiding shaving, keeping the area moisturized, and applying a warm compress. If these methods do not help, we will go to the doctor to learn about other treatment options and avoid scarring.

Home remedies

Sometimes ingrown hairs are visible above the skin before curling underneath. If so, removing it may speed up healing. Clean tweezers can be used to grab the hair and remove it. This should not be done if the hair is completely under the skin or if digging into the skin is necessary to remove it. Instead, the hair should be left alone.

Other home tricks:

• Always keep the cyst and the area around it clean.
• Avoid shaving around the cyst as this can lead to bacteria and infection.
• Apply warm compresses to the cyst for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This can bring the cyst closer to the surface, allowing it to drain. If the hair gets under the skin, warm compresses can help it grow back.
• Apply an antiseptic solution, such as tea tree oil, to the cyst to prevent infection. Triple antibiotic ointments may also help and can be purchased online.
• Avoid pinching or pushing out the cyst. Cysts develop from a sac under the skin that may be filled with a thick, yellow substance called keratin. Opening the cyst may release fluid but will not remove the sac and the cyst may grow back. Opening a cyst can also allow bacteria to get on the skin, causing an infection or worsening the cyst.

Should I go to the doctor?

In most cases, you do not need to see a doctor for these types of lumps and cysts. Over-the-counter treatments often help remove ingrown hairs. If the bumps or cysts become very troublesome, or if they don’t go away within a few days, see your doctor or dermatologist. Only specialists can drain the cyst and remove ingrown hairs, so don’t do anything crazy at home.

You should also see a doctor if you suspect you have an infection. The most common symptoms of an infection are pus discharge from a lump or cyst, increased redness, itching, increased pain, bad breath, swelling, and fever.

Can an ingrown hair cyst be prevented?

The only way to prevent ingrown hairs is to stop waxing completely. Hair removal that does not require shaving is less likely to cause ingrown hairs, although it does not necessarily eliminate the problem completely. If your body is prone to hair not growing properly, you may be at a small risk with any method.

The best way to reduce ingrown hairs is to stop plucking, plucking and shaving until the ingrown hairs go away on their own or with the help of a professional. If you decide to remove the hair yourself, practice sensible and safe epilation to reduce the chance of ingrown hairs.

However, there are other tips to prevent its occurrence, such as those we will tell you below.

Prepare shaving area

Treating the pubic area before shaving with a razor can reduce the risk of ingrown hairs as the hair grows back. Wash your skin first with mild soap. Apply a lubricating hair removal cream or shaving gel. You can also use one designed for sensitive areas.

When you are done, dry the area well before putting on any clothing. You can even sprinkle it with talcum powder to reduce skin inflammation.

Use a single blade razor

Some razors are designed to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. You can try a specialty razor or just buy a single blade razor.

If your razor has been used several times, consider replacing it with a new one. Dull blades do not make clean, precise cuts and can increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Also, you can put your skin at risk of infection if the blade is rusty or not very clean.

Ingrown hair prevention laser hair removal

Although it is the most expensive hair removal method, laser hair removal is a long-term solution to ingrown hairs.