Can Laser Hair Removal Help with Ingrown Hairs?

Ingrown hairs are frustrating and often painful for many Australians, particularly those with curly or coarse hair. 

These trapped hairs can lead to red, inflamed skin, bumps, and infections. Traditional hair removal methods like shaving and waxing often worsen the problem, but laser hair removal offers a long-term solution.

Laser treatments targeting hair at the root reduce hair growth over time and minimise the chances of hair curling back into the skin. But does laser hair removal effectively treat ingrown hairs? 

This article will explain how laser hair removal works, its benefits, and why it’s the best treatment for ingrown hairs.

Let’s Get Straight to the Point

If you’re short on time, here’s what you need to know:

• Laser hair removal significantly reduces ingrown hairs by destroying hair follicles, preventing hair from growing back incorrectly.
• It’s a permanent solution for ingrown hairs with lasers, reducing hair growth over multiple sessions.
• It’s especially beneficial for problem areas like the bikini line, where ingrown hairs are common.
• Unlike shaving and waxing, laser hair removal minimises skin irritation and inflammation.
• Some people may initially experience ingrown hairs after laser hair removal, but this is temporary.

Now, let’s break down everything in detail.

How Laser Hair Removal Reduces Ingrown Hairs

1. What Causes Ingrown Hairs?

Ingrown hairs occur when a hair curls back into the skin instead of growing outward. This is especially common in areas where hair is coarse or thick, such as:

• Bikini line
• Underarms
• Legs
• Face (for men who shave)
• Chest and back

These areas are more prone to ingrown hairs because they experience more friction, irritation, and regular hair removal. Shaving, waxing, and plucking can increase the risk of ingrown hairs because they cut or remove hair unevenly, making it more likely to grow back incorrectly.

2. How Does Laser Hair Removal Help with Skin Bumps?

Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target melanin (pigment) in hair follicles. This heat destroys the follicle, reducing hair regrowth over time. By eliminating the hair at its source, the treatment prevents the sharp, regrowing hairs that often cause irritation and skin bumps.

Many people also suffer from pseudofolliculitis barbae, a condition where clusters of ingrown hairs cause itchy, red, and inflamed skin. Laser hair removal can be highly effective in treating this condition by preventing the formation of new ingrown hairs.

With fewer hairs, they are less likely to become trapped under the skin, making laser hair removal for ingrown hair prevention an excellent choice for smoother skin.

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal for Bikini Line Ingrown Hairs

1. Why the Bikini Line is Prone to Ingrown Hairs

The bikini area is one of the most common places for ingrown hairs due to a combination of factors:

• Thicker, coarse hair that is more likely to curl back into the skin.
• High levels of friction from tight clothing, underwear, and swimwear.
• Frequent hair removal through shaving and waxing, which increases the risk of irritation.
• Increased moisture levels, which can make it easier for bacteria to cause infections.

2. How Laser Treatments Improve Bikini Line Skin Health

Many Australians suffer from persistent ingrown hairs in the bikini area, making swimming, exercise, and wearing fitted clothing uncomfortable. Laser hair removal offers a long-term solution by:

• Destroying hair at the root, preventing future ingrown hairs.
• Reducing redness and inflammation, leading to smoother skin.
• Eliminating the need for daily shaving, which aggravates the skin.
• Making regrown hairs finer and softer, reducing irritation.

A smooth bikini line looks great and helps prevent discomfort caused by recurring ingrown hairs.

Laser Hair Removal for Folliculitis and Ingrown Hairs

1. What is Folliculitis?

Folliculitis is when hair follicles become inflamed due to bacteria, fungus, or irritation. It often appears as red, itchy bumps and can be worsened by shaving or waxing.

Common triggers include:

• Shaving too closely, causing small cuts that let bacteria in.
• Using old razors, which can spread bacteria across the skin.
• Waxing improperly, leading to damaged follicles.
• Sweating excessively, particularly in hot Australian summers.

2. Can Laser Hair Removal Help?

Yes! By removing hair at the root, laser hair removal helps prevent follicle blockages, one of the main causes of folliculitis. With fewer hairs, there’s less chance for bacteria and dead skin cells to clog the follicles.

Studies have shown that laser hair removal can significantly reduce recurring folliculitis in individuals who struggle with persistent skin irritation.

Does Laser Hair Removal Treat Ingrown Hairs Permanently?

1. How Many Sessions Are Needed for Permanent Results?

Laser hair removal reduces hair growth, but multiple sessions are required for optimal results. The number of treatments depends on factors like hair type, skin tone, and the treatment area.

Typically:

• Face & underarms: 6–8 sessions
• Bikini line: 6–10 sessions
• Legs & arms: 8–12 sessions

While some fine hair may regrow, it’s much lighter and softer, reducing the chances of ingrown hairs.

2. Are Ingrown Hairs After Laser Hair Removal Possible?

In some cases, people experience temporary ingrown hairs after laser hair removal. This is usually due to the body pushing out dead hairs. However, once these hairs are shed, the risk of future ingrown hairs is significantly reduced.

Laser Hair Removal vs Shaving for Ingrown Hairs

1. Why Shaving Causes More Ingrown Hairs

Shaving is one of the most common hair removal methods but is also a major cause of ingrown hairs. When you shave, the razor cuts the hair at the skin’s surface, leaving a sharp edge. 

Hair can curl back and pierce the skin as it regrows, leading to painful, red bumps. This problem is especially common in areas with coarse or curly hair, such as the bikini line, underarms, and face.

Aside from causing ingrown hairs, shaving also has other downsides:

• Disrupts the skin barrier – Shaving removes a thin layer of skin along with the hair, leaving the skin more vulnerable to irritation and dryness. This can lead to flakiness and sensitivity over time.
• Can cause razor burn – Many people experience redness, itchiness, and tiny bumps after shaving, particularly if they use dull blades or shave without proper lubrication.
• Requires frequent maintenance – Since shaving only removes hair at the surface, it needs to be repeated every 1–3 days, making it a time-consuming and frustrating routine.
• Increases the risk of infection – Small cuts from shaving can allow bacteria to enter the skin, leading to inflammation and even folliculitis, a condition where hair follicles become infected.

Switching to a longer-term hair removal method, such as laser treatment, can greatly improve the condition of those who struggle with recurring ingrown hairs.

2. Why Laser Hair Removal is the Best Hair Removal for Ingrown Hairs

Unlike shaving, which temporarily cuts the hair, laser hair removal targets the root of the hair follicle, preventing regrowth over time. This makes it one of the most effective solutions for ingrown hair prevention.

Here’s why more people are choosing laser hair removal:

Prevents hair from regrowing, significantly reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.

Doesn’t scrape or irritate the skin, unlike razors that can cause sensitivity and inflammation.

Improves overall skin texture, helping to reduce redness, skin bumps, and irritation caused by shaving.

Eliminates the need for frequent hair removal, saving time and money in the long run.

Many Australians are switching to laser hair removal because it provides long-lasting relief from ingrown hairs without the constant need for shaving or waxing. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term benefits of smoother, irritation-free skin make it a worthwhile choice.

Conclusion

Laser hair removal offers a reliable and lasting solution for Australians struggling with ingrown hairs. Permanently reducing hair growth prevents future ingrown hairs, improves skin health, and eliminates the need for constant shaving or waxing.

If you’re considering treatment, consult a professional to determine the best plan for your skin and hair type. With consistent sessions, you can achieve smoother, irritation-free skin—without the hassle of ingrown hairs.

Would you like to say goodbye to ingrown hairs for good? Laser hair removal might be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take For Laser Hair Removal To Stop Ingrown Hairs?

Most people notice fewer ingrown hairs after 2–3 laser sessions, but full results take 6–10 treatments. As hair growth reduces, the risk of ingrown hairs decreases significantly.

Does Laser Hair Removal Treat Ingrown Hairs Permanently?

Yes, laser hair removal offers a permanent solution for ingrown hairs with lasers by destroying hair follicles. While some fine hair may regrow over time, it’s much softer and less likely to become ingrown.

Can You Get Ingrown Hairs After Laser Hair Removal?

Some people experience ingrown hairs after laser hair removal in the first few weeks as the body sheds dead hairs. This is temporary, and regular exfoliation can help speed up the process.

Is Laser Hair Removal Better Than Shaving For Ingrown Hairs?

Yes, laser hair removal vs shaving for ingrown hairs is a clear win for laser treatments. Unlike shaving, which can cause sharp regrowing hairs, laser removal stops hair growth at the root, preventing ingrown hairs from forming.

Can Laser Hair Removal Help With Folliculitis And Skin Bumps?

Absolutely! Laser hair removal for folliculitis and ingrown hairs reduces hair growth, prevents clogged follicles, and minimises skin irritation. Many people with sensitive skin find it improves skin texture and reduces breakouts.