Stop shaving or waxing the area until the ingrown hair clears
Clean the area gently with mild soap and water
Apply a warm compress for 10 to 15 minutes, several times a day
Gently exfoliate the skin with a soft washcloth or mild scrub
Use a sterile needle or tweezers only if the hair tip is visible above the skin
Do not dig into the skin or squeeze the bump
Apply an over-the-counter product with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide
Use a soothing lotion or gel with aloe vera or hydrocortisone if needed
Wear loose clothing to reduce friction
Shave with a clean, sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth
Use shaving cream or gel before shaving
Avoid very close shaving
Consider electric clippers or a different hair removal method
Seek medical care if the area becomes very painful, swollen, warm, or infected
Seek medical care if the ingrown hair keeps returning or does not improve