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An ingrown hair is a hair that curls and penetrates the skin with its tip, causing inflammation. This can occur in men and woman anywhere that hair is present. Common areas include beard, chest, bikini line and underarm.
Factors that influence the formation of an ingrown hair:
- Moisture content of skin
- Cell turnover
- Sebaceous flow
- Shaving
- Waxing
- Friction
The most common symptom of an ingrown hair is the inflammation of the skin in the form of red raised bumps, followed by pus formation. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.
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Dead skin cells tend to accumulate at the site of the irritation and the formation of a papule may occur which can also contain pus while the skin heals. In some cases cysts can occur and potential for scarring then exists.
Folliculitis. Otherwise known as Pseudofolliculitis. This is a condition where there is inflammation of the hair follicle, commonly due to friction and the presence of bacteria from sweat.
Folliculitis falls under two categories:
- Superficial
- Deep
It is characterized by follicular papules, vesicles and pustules. It may be crusted, dry and can be itchy. It forms a red and bumpy appearance on the skin and is mainly found on the upper arms bikini, back chest and beard area.
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