Ingrown hair on the vulva: care and treatment

An ingrown hair affects hair-bearing outer vulvar skin, often after shaving, waxing, or friction. It can cause a small itchy, red, or sore bump. A painful lump near the vaginal opening may instead be a blocked gland, while blisters, sores, unusual discharge, or burning can have other causes. The inner vagina does not grow hair, so location matters when describing the problem.

Wash the outer area with lukewarm water and avoid scented washes, douches, and scrubbing. Apply a clean warm compress for several minutes. Wear loose, breathable underwear and pause shaving or waxing while the bump is irritated. Do not squeeze, pierce, or try to dig out a hair, and keep skin products away from the vaginal opening. A healthcare professional can check the bump and choose a suitable treatment if it does not settle.

Arrange medical advice for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, spreading redness, a persistent lump, or repeated bumps. Seek prompt care for fever, feeling unwell, severe swelling, trouble urinating, or rapidly worsening symptoms. New blisters, ulcers, unusual discharge, or significant bleeding also need assessment because they are not typical features of a simple ingrown hair.

Ask whether the bump is on hair-bearing vulvar skin, whether it could be a blocked gland or infection, and which products are safe for the area. If grooming triggers repeated bumps, discuss prevention and whether Laser Hair Removal is appropriate.