We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Skin & Hair Products The 12 Best Ingrown Hair Treatments and Prevention Products These dermatologist-recommended products exfoliate and soothe your skin. By Steven Rowe Updated on May 01, 2024 Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD Fact checked by Rich Scherr Print Verywell Health / Amelia Manley Ingrown hairs can be irritating, frustrating, and even painful. When new hairs grow back, especially after a close shave or waxing, they can sometimes get caught under the skin or under a layer of dead skin cells. This can result in painful bumps and redness that can be hard to treat. Utilizing exfoliants is a great way to treat, soothe, and prevent ingrown hairs. Regularly applying an exfoliant, whether it utilizes chemical or natural ingredients, to the areas where you frequently develop ingrown hairs can clear away that troublesome layer of dead skin and prevent new ingrown hairs from forming. We talked with experts and dermatologists to find out which ingrown hair treatments work best and are kindest on your skin. Then, we created this list of products that you can start using right away to cool down your skin and get rid of those irritating bumps. We assessed products based on effectiveness and value. Ingredients to Look for and Avoid in Ingrown Hair Treatments The key ingredients in an ingrown hair treatment typically serve one of two purposes—either as an exfoliant or an agent that soothes or nourishes irritated or damaged skin: Physical exfoliants: They literally scrub the area to lift dead skin cells, like sugar crystals or the volcanic rocks found in the Manscaped Crop Exfoliator. Chemical exfoliants: They're found in most treatments on this list and can remove dead skin cells without any scrubbing. Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and published author, notes that using lotions and products that contain glycolic acid lowers the chances of hair growing into the skin. Soothing ingredients: One of the best ways to manage ingrown hairs is to choose an effective exfoliant that includes ingredients, like green tea and oats, that can soothe irritation and minimize razor bumps. One of the biggest things to note before choosing your ingrown hair treatment is to verify that it can be worn outside in direct sunlight. Many of these treatments containing glycolic acid can make your skin more susceptible to sunburns and cause sun damage if not used properly and worn with sunscreen. Treating Ingrowns in Sensitive Areas Some treatments contain coarse ingredients that work as physical exfoliants, like sugar crystals. These work great for removing the top layer of dead skin cells but might be too abrasive for sensitive areas like the inner thighs and underarms. Hence, it’s important to consider how your skin reacts to those ingredients, especially in sensitive areas like the pubic area and underarms. If you are treating a sensitive part of the body, consider a product that utilizes a chemical exfoliant. When to Consult a Dermatologist If OTC treatments aren’t helping reduce the frequency of ingrown hairs, it may be time to meet with a dermatologist or expert familiar with treating difficult cases of ingrown hairs. If left untreated, it can cause pain and even develop into an infection. Our Top Picks Best Ingrown Hair Treatments: Tend Skin Tend Skin Solution at Amazon ($27) Jump to Review Best for Sensitive Skin: First Aid Beauty Ingrown Hair Pads at Amazon ($20) Jump to Review Best for Face: Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment at Amazon ($34) Jump to Review Best for Body: Estetist Razor Bump Stopper Solution at Amazon ($19) Jump to Review Best for Pubic Area: Manscaped Crop Exfoliator at Amazon ($13) Jump to Review Best Preventative Treatment: European Wax Center Ingrown Hair Serum at Amazon ($32) Jump to Review Best for Razor Bumps: Bliss Ingrown Hair & Razor Bump Eliminating Solution at Blissworld.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Post-Shave Treatment: Bevel Essentials Post Shave Bump Control at Amazon ($12) Jump to Review Best Oil: Fur Ingrown Concentrate at Amazon ($32) Jump to Review Best Scrub: Ouai Scalp and Body Scrub at Amazon ($40) Jump to Review In This Article Expand Ingredients to Look for and Avoid in Ingrown Hair Treatments Treating Ingrowns in Sensitive Areas Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For Our Experts FAQ Why Trust Verywell Health Best Ingrown Hair Treatments Tend Skin Tend Skin Solution Amazon View On Amazon $27 View On Walmart $19 View On Target $20 Pros Designed for body, face, and genital areas Cruelty-free Easy application Cons May dry out skin and sting upon application Why We Recommend It We picked the Tend Skin Solution as our top pick for treating ingrown hairs because it’s formulated for use all over the body, including the face and sensitive genital areas. The product contains isopropyl alcohol and can also be used before shaving as a facial cleanser. It can also be applied after any hair removal method, including irritation from waxing. It is recommended that you use it on dry skin, and it can be easily applied with a cotton ball once or twice a day if needed. After only a few uses, you should see a reduction in post-shaving redness and razor bumps. Keep in Mind It may be drying to the skin and sting upon application. Key Specs: Form: Liquid solution | Key Ingredients: Isopropyl alcohol, propylene glycol | Size: 4 ounces | Instructions: Use a small amount after shaving or waxing Best for Sensitive Skin First Aid Beauty Ingrown Hair Pads Sephora View On Amazon $20 View On Walmart $17 View On Skinstore.com $20 Pros Alcohol-free Designed for sensitive skin and sensitive areas Can brighten the skin and lighten dark spots Cons Best to use one day after shaving May require multiple pads Why We Recommend It The First Aid Beauty Ingrown Hair Pads utilize witch hazel and aloe to soothe and soften your skin, along with glycolic acid to chemically lift dead skin cells. This formula is non-irritating due to the lack of alcohol and artificial fragrances that could dry out the skin. Each container holds 28 individual pads that are pretreated to help prevent ingrown hairs and are ready for use right out of the package. These pads can be used daily or as needed. Keep in Mind Depending on the size of the impacted area, you may need to use more than one pad to fully cover the area experiencing ingrown hairs. These pads also shouldn’t be used right after shaving, so it’s recommended that you apply the treatment the day after you shave. Key Specs: Form: Treated Pads | Key Ingredients: Glycolic and salicylic acid, Witch Hazel | Size: 28 pads | Instructions: Use pads 12 to 24 hours after shaving Best for Face Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment Amazon View On Amazon $34 View On Walmart $34 View On Smallflower.com Pros Easy to apply gel Exfoliates skin without needing to scrub Cons Can irritate sensitive skin Why We Recommend It Using a blend of glycolic, salicylic, and phytic acids, the Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment for Men is a gel treatment that exfoliates and lifts dead skin cells without using an abrasive scrub. Apply a small amount of the gel to the affected area in the morning and evening to help prevent and treat ingrown hairs. The instructions also recommended applying a moisturizer after use because the ingredients can dry out your skin over time. The treatment contains lavender and willowherb, which help soothe your skin and give the gel a very pleasant scent. Keep in Mind This may not be the best option for people with sensitive skin types as it can cause irritation. It shouldn’t be used before prolonged exposure to direct sunlight without also applying sunscreen. Key Specs: Form: Gel | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lavender, willowherb | Size: 3 ounces | Instructions: Use twice per day Best for Body Estetist Razor Bump Stopper Solution Amazon View On Amazon $19 Pros Easy roll on applicator Anti-aging properties Cruelty-free Cons May sting after application Can cause skin sensitivity to direct sunlight Why We Recommend It What makes this particular treatment one of our favorites for the body is how easy it is to apply—there is no need for cotton balls or scrubs. The Razor Bump Stopper Solution comes in a bottle with a built-in roll-on applicator, so you can easily reach any part of your body that frequently has ingrown hairs. Designed for all genders, this ingrown hair treatment can help brighten dark spots and calm irritated skin and razor bumps that can develop after shaving or waxing. This formula uses glycolic acid to exfoliate the affected area and vitamin E to repair the skin that may have been damaged from a close shave. Keep in Mind It may sting after application and can cause skin sensitivity to direct sunlight. Key Specs: Form: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Glycolic and salicylic acid, vitamin E, camphor | Size: 3 ounces | Instructions: Use daily after shaving Best for Pubic Area Manscaped Crop Exfoliator Amazon View On Amazon $13 View On Manscaped.com View On Target $13 Pros Designed specifically for the pubic area Vegan Dermatologist tested Cons May be too abrasive for some Why We Recommend It Manscaped offers a Crop Exfoliator Cleansing Gel that uses glycolic acid and volcanic rock as chemical and physical exfoliants to lift dead skin cells and prepare the area for a close shave. This treatment also includes witch hazel, papaya, and aloe leaf extract to help calm the skin and reduce the risk of razor bumps and redness. You apply this product after a few minutes in the shower but before shaving. Massage it gently into the groin area and then rinse off. While this gel is marketed towards men, all genders would benefit from applying it before shaving to prevent pesky ingrown hairs. The gel is also unscented, so everyone can enjoy the benefits of applying it before shaving despite being targeted at men. Keep in Mind The formula may be too abrasive for some users. Key Specs: Form: Gel | Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, willow bark extract, glycolic and lactic acid, papaya | Size: 3.5 ounces | Instructions: Apply small amount as needed before shaving Best Preventative Treatment European Wax Center Ingrown Hair Serum Amazon View On Amazon $32 View On Waxcenter.com Pros Can improve skin discoloration PH balanced Designed for preventative daily use Cons Could promote in-grown hair growth on some skin textures The scent may not appeal to some Why We Recommend It Not only does this bottle have a sleek and attractive design, but it has also been dermatologist-tested to show its effectiveness in preventing ingrown hairs. The European Wax Center Ingrown Hair Serum is an alcohol-free formula that utilizes glycolic acid as its primary exfoliant. This can help clear away dead skin cells and keep your skin as clean as possible through regular daily use. It can be applied all over the body to any area typically developing ingrown hairs, including the pubic area. This serum includes several popular calming ingredients, such as vitamin E, chamomile, and lavender, to help cool down any irritation or redness. Keep in Mind This serum is more expensive, and while it’s rare, some people have reported slightly worsening ingrown hair conditions after using it. Key Specs: Form: Serum | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, tea tree oil, lavender il | Size: 1.7 ounces | Instructions: Apply daily to help prevent ingrown hairs Best for Razor Bumps Bliss Ingrown Hair & Razor Bump Eliminating Solution Target View On Blissworld.com Pros Reduces irritation and appearance of razor bumps PETA certified Cons Not intended for use on face Why We Recommend It The Bliss Ingrown Hair & Razor Bump Eliminating Solution can be applied daily using a cotton pad to any area where you frequently develop razor bumps. The solution mixes both salicylic and glycolic acids with extracts from green tea and oats to create a blend that can exfoliate and soothe irritated skin. Another added perk is that it is also cruelty-free and PETA-certified. It is worth noting that you should wait about 12 hours (24 hours after waxing) before applying the product though. Keep in Mind This is also a product that can increase skin sensitivity in direct sunlight as well. It also isn't designed for facial use. Key Specs: Form: Liquid solution | Key Ingredients: Salicylic and glycolic acids, oat, and green tea extract | Size: 4 ounces | Instructions: Use daily 12 hours after shaving Best Post-Shave Treatment Bevel Essentials Post Shave Bump Control Amazon View On Amazon $12 View On Getbevel.com View On Target $13 Pros Works best as an aftershave Great for facial hair Light, pleasant scent Cons Thin, liquidy texture May cause a stinging post-shave Why We Recommend It Ingrown hairs commonly develop after shaving facial hair, and effective treatment needs to exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce razor bumps and redness. The Bevel Essentials Post Shave Bump Control ingrown hair treatment comes in a handy 4-ounce bottle that travels well and is formulated specifically for ingrown facial hairs. Similar to many other products on this list, it includes glycolic acid as an exfoliant and witch hazel to soothe your skin after shaving. Keep in Mind The product is a bit more runny than we expected, but it can still be applied with a cotton pad. We recommend using it as an aftershave, and it shouldn’t be worn outside in direct sunlight without sunscreen. Key Specs: Form: Liquid solution | Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, witch hazel, green tea extract | Size: 4 ounces | Instructions: Apply as needed or after shaving Best Oil Fur Ingrown Concentrate Amazon View On Amazon $32 View On Dermstore $32 View On Smallflower.com Pros Reduces redness and irritation Includes finger mitt for easier application Cons Higher pricepoint Why We Recommend It The Fur Ingrown Concentrate, which mixes tea tree, coconut, and tamanu oils, can calm redness. It is gentle enough on the skin that you can apply it anywhere, especially to more sensitive areas. Only a few drops are required to the affected area as needed, or you can help exfoliate the area with the included finger mitt. The oils' antimicrobial qualities can help cleanse the area and prevent further ingrown hairs from developing. Additionally, where similar treatments can dry out your skin, ingredients in this treatment, like coconut oil, can retain moisture and soften stubborn ingrown hairs. Keep in Mind This is a pricier option. While we find it effective, there are more affordable options on the market just as effective. Key Specs: Form: Oil | Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, tea tree oil, chamomile extract | Size: 0.5 ounces | Instructions: Apply a few drops daily Best Scrub Ouai Scalp and Body Scrub Amazon View On Amazon $40 View On Target $40 View On Spacenk.com Pros Uses sugar crystals as a natural exfoliant Can be used on the scalp Has a lingering floral scent Cons Abrasive on sensitive skin Can potentially dry out your scalp if used too often or without a good conditioner Why We Recommend It The OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub is a floral-scented scrub that uses sugar crystals to clear away dry, dead skin cells and coconut oil to hydrate the area. It can be used in the shower (just before adding conditioner) or applied to damp skin right after getting out of the shower. A quarter-size amount should be applied to the impacted area and rubbed into the skin in a circular motion. Keep in Mind While you should use this product as needed, be aware that overuse (without a moisturizing conditioner) can dry out the scalp. Key Specs: Form: Cream scrub | Key Ingredients: Sugar, glycerin, coconut oil | Size: 8.8 ounces | Instructions: Apply a quarter size amount as needed in or after you shower Best for Legs Truly Beauty Glazed Donut After Shave Oil Amazon View On Amazon $33 View On Trulybeauty.com View On Ulta $33 Pros Hydrates the skin Contains vitamin E Smooth application Cons Scent fades quickly Why We Recommend It Several ingrown hair treatments contain ingredients that can dry your skin out and shouldn’t be worn in direct sunlight. This sweetly scented Truly Beauty Glazed Donut shave oil is quite the opposite with hydrating properties. It uses vitamin E to rejuvenate your skin and is even advertised as a treatment that can be applied poolside under the hot summer sun. This after-shave oil contains coconut to treat and soothe the skin. It also features scent notes of grape, lavender, and passion fruit. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free. After shaving, applying the oil with the included dropper and rubbing it into clean, dry skin to start the hydration process. While we picked this as a great treatment for your legs, it can be used all over the body to help prevent ingrown hairs. Keep in Mind The scent fades quickly, which is good news if you don't like the scent, but the opposite if you do. Key Specs: Form: Oil | Key Ingredients: Coconut, vitamin E | Size: 3.1 ounces | Instructions: Apply a few drops as needed after shaving Best Non-Chemical Dylonic Exfoliating Brush Kit Amazon View On Amazon $8 View On Walmart $11 Pros Includes two different exfoliant brushes Flexible and soft bristles Cons Doesn’t include any soaps or formulated treatments Can cause pain and pulls at the skin Why We Recommend It If you aren’t a fan of chemical solutions, a scrub brush is an effective and typically less expensive method of ingrown hair removal, and it's less likely to irritate the skin. Our favorite natural way to remove ingrown hairs is to use the Dylonic Exfoliating Brush and Precision Tweezers. This three-pack includes two silicone brushes and one stainless steel pair of tweezers. The brushes have an ergonomic, easy-to-hold grip and can be used on different hair textures, ranging from fine and thin to thick, coarse, and curly. The fine bristles are great for wet and dry exfoliation, so you can get rid of razor bumps and ingrown hairs as quickly as possible. The larger brush has larger cleansing bristles attached to an ergonomic handle, while the smaller brush is a flexible facial scrubber with tiny bristles for a gentler and less abrasive feel. Keep in Mind Using this product with body wash is best, as it may cause pain and/or pull at the skin. Key Specs: Form: Brush | Key Ingredients: Silicon | Size: Not listed | Instructions: Use on wet or dry skin in circular motions How We Selected the Best Ingrown Hair Treatments We spoke to experts and used their advice to research and pick the best-ingrown hair treatments. We picked products based on the following criteria: Effectiveness: First, we noted the type of exfoliant (physical, chemical, or hybrid). Then, we examined the effectiveness of the hair treatments by analyzing the active ingredients and overall performance of the product in preventing and treating ingrown hairs. Comfort: We assessed how comfortable the product was when and after its application. We paid attention to any after-effects, such as drying or skin sensitivity. We also noted any scents or fragrances, whether natural or added.Value: We compared the performance of ingrown hair treatments to their price points to assess if they were worth the financial cost. What to Look for in an Ingrown Hair Treatment Form: The form of treatment will likely depend on your personal preference. Do you prefer a cream that you can rub in or a more liquid option that you can quickly apply with a cotton swab? This list includes several treatment forms to help you choose the best fit for your needs. Application and dosage: It’s also very important to read the manufacturer’s recommendation about dosage and frequency of use. Treatments with less aggressive ingredients can be used multiple times a day, while others should only be used once daily and, in some cases, after a 12 to 24-hour waiting period after shaving. Our Experts To create our list of the best-ingrown hair treatments, we interviewed two dermatologists to learn more about what to look for in a successful ingrown hair treatment plan. We talked with: Ahmad Chaudhry, MBBS, a UK board-certified dermatologist and a consultant dermatologist for Scandinavian Biolabs Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and published author Frequently Asked Questions How do you prevent ingrown hair? Ingrown hairs can develop when growing hairs get trapped under the skin or under a layer of dead skin cells. Dr. Chacon recommends using exfoliating cleansers to remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface and reduce the chances of developing ingrown hairs. She says that chemical exfoliators, like glycolic or salicylic acid, break down the cell connections to the skin's surface. Ingrown hairs can be difficult to prevent entirely, but taking regular steps to keep the affected area clean and free of dead skin cells will noticeably lower the frequency of ingrown hairs. How do you treat ingrown hairs? Look for a product that can physically exfoliate your skin through a coarse scrubbing gel or a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid. Ahmad Chaudhry, MBBS, a UK board-certified dermatologist and a consultant dermatologist for Scandinavian Biolabs, also recommends some easy at-home treatments like applying warm compresses to soothe any inflamed skin and help free the trapped hairs or using over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone creams that can reduce the inflammation that could lead to additional ingrown hairs. What do dermatologists recommend for ingrown hairs? There are several ways to approach ingrown hair treatments and managing the different causes is a great way to prevent further occurrences. Dr. Chacon recommends avoiding excessive shaving, waxing, and tweezing when possible and washing the area with warm water and a cleanser before shaving.If possible, softening the hairs ahead of time with a lotion or lubricating gel can make the hairs easier to shave and reduce the chances of them growing back in underneath your skin. What should you do if an ingrown hair won’t go away? Dr. Chaudhy recommends that if an ingrown hair doesn’t go away, you should avoid picking or squeezing at the area because it can cause an infection and worsen the situation. If you aren’t seeing improvements with at-home treatments after a few weeks, you should discontinue those treatments and consult with a professional. Why Trust Verywell Health Steven Rowe is a freelancer writer and editor who enjoys doing deep dives into health-related topics before he even starts drafting an article. He has written extensively about health and wellness and how to find the perfect product match based on someone’s budget, health concerns, and overall needs. Having recently battled a few pesky ingrown hairs himself, this list helped him better choose an at-home treatment in his price range. The 7 Best Ceramide Moisturizers, Tested and Reviewed By Steven Rowe Steven Rowe is a New York-based health journalist. His work has also been published by Healthline, Psych Central, Greatist, Romper, Inverse, and Bustle, among others. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Medical Expert Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit