How to Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs for Good

We all love being smooth and hair free but some can develop ingrown hairs from shaving and hair removal services such as waxing or sugaring.

How Do They Develop

Ingrown are caused with irritation and too much buildup of dead skin in the pore where the hair is trying to regrow and push back out of the pore. Some experience these from a bad razor or as the hair is starting to grow back after a wax so around 2 weeks post wax.

How Do I Prevent Them

EXFOLIATE! Exfoliation is going to be your best friend. I recommend two types of exfoliation; chemical and physical. Everyone should own a exfoliation glove (not a washcloth or sponge these harbor too much bacteria). Use this 3x a week in the shower this will help the hair grow back through and not get blocked by dead skin and causing an ingrown hair.
A chemical exfoliation would be a serum or product made to help with ingrown hairs. These usually contain an AHA (Glycolic acid or Salicylic) these work by going deep in the pore and cleaning it as the hair grows back through. I personally recommend Serious Serum - this product was produced by an esthetician and is calming while exfoliating containing glycolic acid, chamomile and willow tree bark.

Hydration & Body Washes

Sometimes we are looking to heal this on our own and learn some fun Ideas from Pinterest on at home care. Here are the ones that I typically hear of and please don’t do this to your skin, you will only make it worse;
- Any type of scrub created at home (sugar, coffee grounds, etc.) these are harsh and cause micro-tears in the skin causing more irritation
-Any hydration oil that can clog your pores or lotions that contain too much fragrance (coconut oil)

What Not To Do Post Wax

You can be causing more harm than good if you are doing the following after your wax:

• working out (before 24 hours)

• wearing tight clothing post-wax

• wearing lacy underwear (if you are struggling with bikini line ingrowns this could be the culprit)

• going to a hot tub or sitting in unclean water (24 hours)

In conclusion…

When getting waxed it does take some extra effort to keep your skin beautiful and smooth but it will work in the long run and keep your enjoying your wax without the painful and unsightly look of ingrown hairs.

The 3 types of Chemical Peels - Which is right for You?

Many of you have heard me talk about on social the different types of peels, but do you know what they are made out of and how they benefit your skin?

Enzymatic Peels

First, let’s talk enzymatic peels. These are typically based with fruit enzymes and other additives that can be used to target your skin concern.

These peels don’t result always in intense peeling but will leave your skin glowing with a boost of hydration and even texture.

Resurfacer:

Second, is a resurfacer. I personally love using these for those who can handle some minor flaking while getting an amazing result. These can be infused with more intensive enzymes, vitamin c, stem cells, and acids to focus on your skin concerns. These are great for those looking to start a peel series to prep your skin for deeper peels as well as those looking to brighten pigmentation or treat acne.

These peels are known as superficial meaning they go to the 3rd layer of skin and will result in minor flaking/peeling with up to 3 days downtime.

Chemical Peel:

Lastly is your actual chemical peel, depending on which peel you use and how many layers you apply your downtime can be anywhere from 5-14 days.

Most of these peels are made of up the following acids:

·         Glycolic (alpha hydroxy peel) – this is the most common peel use for many and reduces fine lines, increases cell turnover, removes dead skin and brightens your overall appearance.

·         Salicylic (beta hydroxy peel) – penetrates deeper and controls moderate acne, removes blackheads, reduces pore size

·         Lactic (jessners peel) – typically less irritating peel that helps even skin tone, lighten pigmentation and reduce wrinkles, age spots & melasma

·         TCA (trichloroacetic peel) – a very strong peel used typically for mature skin, sun damage, or pigmentation. Treats sagging skin, crows feet, acne scars, sun damage, large pores, stretch marks & skin tags

I personally love to cocktail different peels based on your concern and create a series plan combining most of the above. Questions on which type of peel is right for you? Message me and we will find the right treatment plan to reach your skincare goals.