Treating an infected hair follicle includes keeping the skin clean and free from bacteria. In addition, topical antibiotics and anti-infectives are also effective in reducing bacteria on the skin, thereby promoting healing. An infected hair follicle is frequently the result of shaving with a dull razor, which causes the hair to turn inwards and grow back into the skin. The follicle then becomes inflamed, red, and sometimes painful. Infections and ingrown hairs can occur on the face, legs, or on the bikini area.

Generally, an infected hair follicle can be gently removed with a sterilized tweezers so that the area can be adequately cleaned and treated with the topical medication. Exfoliation of the skin during a bath or shower with a loofah pad can keep the skin smooth and reduce the incidence of infected ingrown hairs. In addition, consuming a healthy diet that is rich in antioxidants can boost the immune system and lessen the possibility of infection in the event of an ingrown hair. Daily exercise can also promote wellness and decrease the rate of infections.

If infected hair follicles cause a system infection, the physician might recommend an oral antibiotic. It is important for the patient to complete the entire regimen of antibiotics for his infected hair follicle, because failure to do so might result in the return of the infection. Hot compresses applied to the affected area throughout the day is also a proven method of resolving an infected hair follicle. The warmth of the compress can help draw out the infection, while reducing inflammation, redness, and discomfort.

Shaving with a dull razor not only is abrasive and irritating to the skin, it can promote the occurrence of an infected hair follicle. When a razor begins to lose its ability to effectively remove hair, it should be replaced with a clean, new one. In addition, razors that are still sharp, but old, can harbor significant amounts of bacteria that can turn a non-infected hair follicle into an infected hair follicle.

Although treating infected hair follicles at home is frequently all that is needed to eradicate the infection, it is advised that the patient seek prompt medical attention when the hair follicle exhibits drainage or a strong odor. This can indicate a severe infection that will need medical intervention. Although oral antibiotics are generally effective in treating simple infected ingrown hairs, when severe infection is present, intravenous (IV) antibiotics may be the treatment of choice to completely resolve the infection.