Infected ingrown pubic hair: what to know

Pubic hair can curl back into the skin after close shaving, waxing or trimming. Friction from underwear, sweat and scratching may further irritate the follicle. A small bump can become infected when bacteria enter through irritated skin. Look for increasing soreness, warmth, swelling, pus or redness spreading beyond the original spot. A cluster of bumps may also be folliculitis or razor bumps rather than one isolated ingrown hair.

Pause shaving and waxing until the area has healed. Rinse gently, pat dry and use a clean warm compress for comfort. Choose loose, breathable underwear and change out of damp clothing. Keep the bump covered only if rubbing causes discomfort, using a clean dressing. Never squeeze, pierce or tweeze a hair that is buried, and avoid applying fragranced products to broken skin. If episodes keep returning, ask about safer hair-removal options, including laser hair removal.

Arrange prompt assessment if redness spreads, the pain becomes severe, pus continues, or a deep lump develops. Seek urgent care for fever, chills, red streaks, rapidly increasing swelling, or feeling faint or very unwell. A clinician can distinguish a follicle infection from other causes of a genital-area lump and recommend suitable treatment.

Could this be folliculitis or a different type of lump? Can the trapped hair be removed without damaging the skin? Should I stop a particular hair-removal method? How can I reduce friction while it heals?