Ingrown hair on the head: treatment and care

A trapped or curved hair can irritate the follicle, causing a tender bump, itch, redness, or a small amount of pus. On the scalp, friction from hats, helmets, tight hairstyles, or close shaving may keep the area inflamed. Similar-looking bumps can also be folliculitis or another scalp condition, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, then apply a warm, clean compress for several minutes. Do not dig, squeeze, scratch, or pull at a hair buried under the skin. Pause shaving, clipping very close, and products that sting the area. Keep pillowcases, hats, and hair tools clean, and reduce rubbing while the bump heals. A clinician can advise whether a topical treatment or careful removal is suitable; do not put strong products near the eyes or on broken skin.

Arrange medical advice if pain, warmth, swelling, or drainage is increasing, if redness is spreading, or if several bumps keep returning. Prompt assessment is sensible for fever, a rapidly enlarging lump, severe tenderness, or swelling near the eye. A clinician may check for infection, a cyst, or a different scalp problem and choose treatment that avoids scarring.

Ask whether the bump is an ingrown hair or folliculitis, whether any product should be stopped, and how to remove hair without triggering more bumps. Discuss whether recurrent scalp lesions need examination or a longer-term option such as Laser Hair Removal.