What should you know about an ingrown hair cyst on the head?

The bump may feel tender, firm, or itchy and can contain trapped hair or inflammatory fluid. It often follows close shaving, clipping, friction from headwear, or repeated scratching. A similar-looking bump can also be folliculitis, a razor-bump condition, or another skin cyst, so appearance alone cannot identify the cause. Do not assume that every lump on the head is an ingrown hair.

Pause close shaving or plucking over the area. Wash gently, use a warm clean compress for short periods, and keep hands and tools away from the bump. Do not pierce, squeeze, or dig for the hair; those actions can push inflammation deeper and leave a dark mark or scar. Once the skin settles, a clinician can discuss prevention, including changing hair-removal technique or whether laser hair removal is suitable.

Arrange medical assessment if the swelling is rapidly enlarging, increasingly painful, hot, draining pus, or surrounded by spreading redness. Seek prompt care if you feel unwell, develop fever, or notice several painful scalp bumps. A persistent or repeatedly returning lump deserves examination because treatment may differ from care for an ingrown hair.

Could this be folliculitis or another type of cyst? Should I stop shaving or trimming this area while it heals? What signs would mean I need a prescription treatment or drainage? How can I reduce recurrence without irritating my scalp?