Infected ingrown hair follicle: what to know

A shaved, waxed or plucked hair may curve back into the skin. The trapped hair irritates the follicle, creating a raised spot, and bacteria can enter through small breaks in the skin. Increasing warmth, swelling, tenderness, yellow drainage or a spreading red area suggest infection rather than simple irritation. Folliculitis is the broader term for inflammation around a hair follicle. Razor bumps can look similar, especially after close shaving.

Pause shaving, waxing and plucking the area while it settles. Apply a clean warm, moist compress for short periods, wash gently, and pat dry. Wear loose clothing where friction is involved. Do not lance the bump, pull at a deeply embedded hair, or share towels and razors. A clinician can examine the follicle, release a visible hair safely, and decide whether a prescription treatment is appropriate. Repeated episodes may improve after changing hair-removal technique or discussing laser hair removal.

Arrange prompt medical care if redness is expanding, pain is becoming marked, pus is collecting, or the area feels increasingly hot and swollen. Seek urgent help for fever, chills, red streaks, severe illness, or swelling near the eye. Earlier assessment is sensible when you have reduced immune defenses or a condition that affects wound healing.

Could this be folliculitis or another skin condition? Is there a safe way to remove the trapped hair? Which hair-removal method is least likely to trigger another episode? What changes should prompt a review?