As a skin therapist, I am very often asked the following question online (and in the treatment room):
"Why do I always get those annoying bumps after shaving?"
Or: "Help! Those ingrown hairs are causing dark spots on my bikini line, what can I do?"
If you recognize yourself in this – especially if you have dark skin – then read on. This blog is written especially for you.
What exactly are ingrown hairs?
An ingrown hair is simply a hair that does not grow straight up, but curls back into the skin. Your body reacts to this with an inflammation: redness, a bump, sometimes pus... and as the icing on the cake, a dark spot often remains. Not fun.
In people with curly or frizzy hair (like many people with dark skin) this happens much faster. These hairs naturally grow in an arc – and can therefore shoot back into the skin more easily.
Why is this extra important for dark skin?
Dark skin (Fitzpatrick skin type 4 to 6) is beautiful – but also sensitive to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation . This means that after an inflammation (such as an ingrown hair) dark spots can quickly appear. And these spots sometimes remain visible for weeks to months. Your skin therefore heals differently – and also deserves different care.
My best tips against ingrown hairs
Use a trimmer instead of shaving with a blade
Shaving against the grain? A big no-no if you’re prone to ingrown hairs. Instead, use a trimmer that cuts the hair just above the skin. Less chance of curling back = less misery.
Exfoliate gently but regularly
Use an exfoliant with glycolic or salicylic acid (2-3x per week) to remove dead skin cells and keep pores clear. No harsh scrubs – they can actually be damaging to darker skin types.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Well-hydrated skin is more flexible and less likely to get irritated. Choose a fragrance-free, soothing cream. Bonus points if it contains niacinamide!
Stop picking (I know... hard!)
Picking or squeezing ingrown hairs? That will only make it worse. You increase the chance of scarring and dark spots. Instead, use a warm compress and leave your skin alone.
What if you already have dark spots?
Don't panic - you can do something about that too. Choose products with ingredients that soothe and restore the skin and help fade pigment spots, such as:
Niacinamide – helps to even out the skin, soothes redness and works well against hyperpigmentation.
Witch Hazel – a gentle hydrolate that helps strengthen and refresh the skin without drying it out.
Centella Asiatica (Cica) – a top ingredient if your skin is irritated or sensitive. It supports recovery and soothes inflammation.
And don't forget: sun protection is really key! Even (or especially) for dark skin. UV light only makes pigment spots more stubborn - so using an SPF every morning is not a luxury, but a necessity. ☀️🧴
Are you experiencing this problem and would you like personal advice?
Send me a message (advies@skincare-innovations.com) or book an online intake . Follow me on socials (via Instagram) for more tips and product advice.
Together we ensure that your skin shines again - without bumps or spots ✨