Ingrown hair on the scrotum: treatment and safety

A shaved or rubbed hair can grow back into the outer scrotal skin and inflame its follicle. It may look like a small red, itchy, or tender bump. The scrotum can also develop cysts, folliculitis, blocked glands, or other lumps that are not ingrown hairs. A lump within the testicle, sudden testicular pain, or swelling is a different concern and should not be treated as a skin bump at home.

Rinse gently and use a clean warm compress on the outer skin for several minutes. Keep the area dry afterward and wear comfortable, breathable underwear to reduce rubbing. Stop shaving or waxing until the skin recovers. Never squeeze, pierce, or scrape the bump, and do not put harsh antiseptics, fragranced products, or unprescribed creams on sensitive skin. A clinician can examine the lesion and remove a trapped hair or prescribe treatment if needed.

Get prompt medical assessment for rapidly increasing pain or swelling, fever, spreading redness, pus, an open sore, or difficulty passing urine. Sudden severe testicular pain, a testicle sitting unusually high, nausea, or marked swelling needs emergency care. Seek review for any lump that persists, returns, or feels deeper than the skin.

Ask whether the lesion is in the skin or deeper, whether infection is present, and which hair-removal method is safest. If bumps recur after grooming, discuss prevention and whether Laser Hair Removal is suitable for the area.