Treatment of Ingrown Hair on the Vagina
For an ingrown hair on the vulvar area, avoid shaving and use clipping or trimming instead, combined with warm compresses and gentle exfoliation; if infected, consider topical or oral antibiotics, and for recurrent cases, consider permanent hair removal methods.
Understanding the Problem
Ingrown hairs in the vulvar region occur when hair curls back and grows into the skin, creating inflammation and sometimes infection. This is particularly common in women with curly or coarse hair who shave the pubic area 1.
Immediate Management
Stop Shaving
- If hair removal is necessary, use clipping rather than shaving, as shaving increases the rate of skin complications and ingrown hairs 1
- The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Society explicitly recommends clipping over shaving for vulvar procedures due to lower complication rates 1
Conservative Treatment
- Apply warm compresses to the affected area several times daily to reduce inflammation and help the hair emerge 2, 3
- Gentle exfoliation with a soft washcloth can help release trapped hairs 2, 3
- Avoid squeezing or picking at the ingrown hair, as this increases infection risk 2, 3
When Infection is Present
Signs of Infection
- Increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus formation indicates secondary bacterial infection 2, 3
- Pain that is worsening or spreading beyond the immediate area 2, 3
Antibiotic Treatment
- Topical antibiotics may be sufficient for mild infections 2, 3
- Oral antibiotics are indicated for more extensive infections or cellulitis 2, 3
- Consider incision and drainage if an abscess has formed 2, 3
Long-Term Prevention Strategies
Hair Removal Modifications
- Switch from razors to electric clippers to minimize trauma to the skin and reduce ingrown hair formation 1
- If shaving must continue, shave in the direction of hair growth and use a single-blade razor 2, 3
- Chemical depilatories can be considered but may cause irritation in the sensitive vulvar area 3
Permanent Solutions for Recurrent Cases
- Laser hair removal or electrolysis can be considered for women with recurrent pseudofolliculitis 2, 3
- These methods are particularly effective for patients with curved or coarse hair follicles 2, 3
Important Caveats
Differential Diagnosis
- Ensure the lesion is truly an ingrown hair and not another vulvar condition such as folliculitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, or a sexually transmitted infection 4, 5
- If the lesion does not resolve with conservative management within 1-2 weeks, consider alternative diagnoses 4, 5
Hygiene Considerations
- Use gentle, pH-balanced cleansers for the vulvar area rather than harsh soaps 6
- Avoid douching or internal vaginal products, as these are not indicated for external vulvar conditions 6