how to get rid of ingrown hairs

We’ve all been there. A seemingly smooth shave session ends with a stubborn, irritating, sometimes painful unintended consequence: ingrown hairs. Those puny, pesky bumps that appear when a hair grows back into the skin instead of rising up and out. They can show up anywhere you shave—legs, underarms, bikini line, or face—and often come with redness, itchiness, or inflammation. But why exactly do we get them, and how can we avoid them?

what causes ingrown hairs when shaving?

Everyone gets ingrown hairs for different reasons, but you can get to the bottom of it by first examining the state of your skin when shaving. Understanding the root cause is key to preventing them long-term, not just treating them after they appear.

Exfoliation: Is the skin in need of exfoliation? Dead skin cells can build up and block hair follicles. When a new hair can’t break through the surface, it may grow sideways under the skin instead. This is one of the most common and preventable causes of ingrown hairs.

Shaving Too Close: Sometimes, ingrown hair is present because of shaving too close. When you shave very close to the skin, especially with multi-blade razors, the hair can be cut below the skin’s surface. As it grows back, it may curl inward rather than pushing straight out, becoming trapped under the skin. This is especially common in areas where hair grows at an angle.

Dull Razor: The freshness of your razor also makes a world of difference. A dull blade tugs at hair instead of cleanly cutting it, which can leave behind sharp, uneven hair tips that are more likely to pierce the skin as they grow back. Dirty razors can also introduce bacteria, worsening irritation. Swapping blades regularly is a small change that can make a big difference.

Hair Texture: Hair texture can also contribute to ingrown hair. They’re more common amongst people with curly or tightly coiled hair, as these tighter textures tend to bend back into the skin after shaving. This makes proper prep and post-shave care even more important.

how to get rid of & prevent ingrown hairs

The good news? With the right routine, ingrown hairs are totally manageable—and often avoidable altogether.

step 1: prep skin to prevent ingrown hairs

Start with warm water in the shower or bath to soften hair and open pores, then exfoliate the skin. Exfoliating before shaving removes dead skin cells that can block hair follicles and helps hair grow straight out instead of sideways. Gentle exfoliation is key—think smooth, not scrubbed raw.

step 2: shave the right way

When shaving, patience is just as important as the products you use. First, slather a moisturizing shave cream or oil onto wet skin. Take a clean, sharp razor and shave with the grain, using light pressure and short strokes. Rinse your blade often to avoid buildup and irritation. Avoid going over the same area repeatedly, which can increase friction and sensitivity.

step 3: soothe skin after shaving

After shaving, rinse with cool water to calm the skin. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer that is hydrating and nourishing but won’t clog pores. This helps restore the skin barrier and reduces the chance of post-shave redness or bumps.

step 4: maintain smooth skin between shaves

Keep skin soft and clear by exfoliating a few times a week and moisturizing daily. This prevents dead skin buildup and gives new hair a clear path to grow out, not in. Consistency is everything—your between-shave routine matters just as much as shave day itself.

eos Products that support ingrown-hair free shaving

These skin-loving formulas support smooth skin before, during, and after shaving, from ultra-moisturizing shave creams that provide slip and cushion to fast-absorbing body lotions that hydrate without heaviness. Each step works together to help minimize irritation and support healthy-looking skin.

Shave Cream
Provides rich, cushiony lather for a close, comfortable shave without dryness.

Shave Oil
Delivers lightweight slip and visibility for precise shaving, especially in sensitive areas.

Pre-Shave Scrub
Gently exfoliates to smooth skin and clear the way for hairs to grow out—not in.

Shave Butter
Deeply moisturizing with extra glide to help reduce friction and razor drag.

Body Lotion
Locks in moisture and helps soothe freshly shaved skin for a soft, smooth finish.

When shaving supports your skin instead of stressing it, ingrown hairs are easier to prevent and even easier to forget about.