Can you do IPL over ingrown hairs?

Author: Anahi Mueller  |  Last update: Saturday, October 11, 2025

IPL hair removal is in fact the recommended treatment for ingrown hairs for conditions such as folliculitis and razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae).

Is it OK to get laser hair removal with ingrown hairs?

Does Laser Hair Removal Still Work if I Have Ingrown Hairs? Yes! Laser hair removal still works if you currently have ingrown hairs. The laser technology works by discerning the dark pigment in the skin, called melanin, and delivers heat to destroy the darker area–the hair follicle.

Is it safe to use IPL on razor bumps?

Is it safe or even effective to use over the razor bumps? IPL shouldn't be used over open wounds or irritated skin, as it could slow healing or cause burns. It's best to wait until razor bumps are fully resolved before treating with IPL.

How do you get rid of a deep embedded ingrown hair?

Use warm — not hot — water and small, circular motions to wash your affected areas with a washcloth, exfoliating brush or exfoliating gel or scrub. You can also remove an ingrown hair that has looped or curled back into your skin by gently pulling it out with a sterile needle, pin or tweezers.

Can I use IPL over a pimple?

Intense pulsed light (IPL) has been used for the treatment of facial acne. Modifications of various parameters allow flexibility in treatment, which include energy fluence, pulse duration, and pulse delay.

My laser hair removal experience *down there*

What happens if you laser hair removal over a pimple?

Laser hair removal and active breakouts don't mix well. The laser targets pigment in the hair follicle, but any inflammation or infection around the skin can cause irritation or make the acne worse. It's best to wait until your breakouts have cleared up before starting laser treatments.

Does IPL work for cystic acne?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment is a powerful tool for combating acne, including stubborn cystic acne. By addressing the root causes of acne and promoting overall skin health, IPL offers a comprehensive solution that goes beyond temporary relief.

How to draw out ingrown hair?

Release visible ingrown hairs by inserting a sterile needle under each hair loop and gently lifting the tip that has grown back into the skin. Rinse your skin and apply a cool, wet cloth for a few minutes. Then use a soothing after-shave product.

Why did my ingrown hair turn into a hard lump?

Ingrown hairs can sometimes turn into a hard lump under the skin. An abscess or cyst can form: when an ingrown hair under the skin becomes infected. when a hair follicle becomes blocked.

What can be mistaken for ingrown hair?

Other possible skin conditions

There are many skin conditions that can easily be mistaken for ingrown hairs. These include: keratosis pilaris ('chicken skin') – a common, harmless condition where the skin becomes rough and bumpy, as if covered in permanent goose pimples. acne.

Can you IPL over ingrown hairs?

IPL hair removal is in fact the recommended treatment for ingrown hairs for conditions such as folliculitis and razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae). Firstly, before you undergo IPL hair removal treatment, you must not expose the treated area to the sun or a sunbed.

What happens if you don't shave for IPL?

Not shaving before your laser hair removal session can lead to several issues: Reduced efficacy: Hair above the skin absorbs the laser energy, diverting it from the follicles, leading to diminished results. Skin irritation: Unshaved hair can cause post-laser redness, inflammation, and swelling.

Can I use IPL on my pubes?

That might have left you asking yourself, “Can I use IPL for pubic hair?” You sure can, but there are a few important steps to take to ensure you get the best results. Trim existing hair: First, shave, epilate, or wax your intimate area.

What's the worst an ingrown hair can do?

Ingrown hair that doesn't clear up can lead to: Bacterial infection (from scratching) Patches of skin that are darker than usual (postinflammatory hyperpigmentation) Raised scars that are darker than surrounding skin (keloids)

Will insurance cover laser hair removal for ingrown hairs?

The cost will vary depending on the body part you want to treat, healthcare professional's fees, geographic location, and other factors. In most cases, laser hair removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance.

Can you do laser hair removal over folliculitis?

Yes, it can be the short answer, however, there are a number of factors that are specific to the individual and its effectiveness. These include the cause of your folliculitis and your suitability for laser hair removal treatment.

Can an ingrown hair turn into staph?

It's not common, but you can develop a staph infection from ingrown hairs if they're not treated.

Is it bad to pluck pubic hair?

Plucking your pubic hair can be painful and takes a long time. Plucking can cause redness, swelling, itching, irritation, and damage to the skin. It can also result in ingrown hairs (where the hair curls backward or sideways under the skin) and infection.

What naturally draws out an ingrown hair?

3 Easy Ways To Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs
  • Exfoliate with Sugar. Sugar scrubs are an all-natural and effective way of exfoliating your skin and helping to get rid of those ingrown hairs. ...
  • Use Black Tea Bags. ...
  • Apply Heat.

Is it OK to pop ingrown hair bumps?

Never Try to Pop an Ingrown Hair Cyst

Pushing on or trying to pop the red bump will not free an ingrown hair. Trying to pop it like a pimple may push the hair deeper under the skin, cause more swelling, and raise the risk of an infection and scarring.

Will peroxide draw out ingrown hair?

Over the counter products containing benzoyl peroxide, as well as exfoliating ingredients such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid, also can help in the treatment and prevention of ingrown hairs.

Can IPL get rid of blackheads?

Thankfully, IPL works to remove the excess oil and dead skin cells that clog pores and contribute to breakouts. If you're suffering from severe or cystic acne, a dermatologist is your best bet. But IPL is a winning weapon to help battle blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.

How do dermatologists get rid of cystic acne?

Cystic acne treatments include: Antibiotic creams, gels solutions and lotions to kill bacteria and decrease inflammation. Azelaic acid (Azelex®, Finacea®) or salicylic acid to kill bacteria and get rid of excess dead skin cells.

How to know if an IPL is working?

You will notice that the hair growth after four weeks of IPL treatment will be lesser and thinner. After completing a session of 12 weeks, the hair growth will reduce completely, providing you with silky, smooth skin for a longer time. However, you may have to continue touch-ups as needed.

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