Where is the most likely place for an ingrown hair and how can I avoid it?

Question: Where is the most likely place for an ingrown hair and how can I avoid it?

Answer: Ingrown hairs can be found any where on the body even on the damn nest places. Many years ago when shaving with a straight blade was practiced regularly in salons and barber shops, my clients of African American descent were extremely reluctant to get a close straight blade shave for fear of getting an ingrown hair. The nape of the neck or right below the chin is the most susceptible for an ingrown hair. This is a terrible ordeal especially when you consider how happy these hairs seemed to be trapped in their cubicles deep within the skin, soaking in puss and creating agony with no attempt for coming out for air.

Avoiding ingrown hair tips:

There is a way to avoid getting these little nasty and painful annoyances. Although ingrown hairs can happen to any one for no apparent reason, shaving the wrong way or failing to properly prepare for a shave can up your chances considerably. Follow these tips to help insure a clean cut shave:

• Moisten your skin with a warm steamy face towel for your neck and head area. Place the towel on the area for about two minutes as to let the steam soften the hairs.

• Always use a shaving cream or foam. These products help lift the hairs away from the skin protecting the follicle.

• Never go against the grain of the natural hair growth when shaving. This can be detrimental to the skin causing chronic friction to the hair follicle which can result in the hair getting diverted back into the skin as it continues to grow.

• Use an astringent or a topical antiseptic immediately after shaving, this helps minimize shaving pumps.

• Spread a thin amount of a soothing lotion containing Aloe Vera over the area. Aloe has been proven to promote healing.

• Talcum powder is a good way to reduce friction. Consider using talcum powder when wearing a tight turtle neck, scarf or hat.