Stop shaving, waxing, or plucking the area until it heals
Wash the area gently with warm water and mild soap
Apply a warm compress for 10 to 15 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day
Gently exfoliate the skin with a soft washcloth or mild exfoliant
Do not pick, squeeze, or dig at the ingrown hair
Wear loose, breathable underwear and clothing
Use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream if the skin is irritated
Use an over-the-counter acne product with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide if appropriate for the skin
Use a sterile needle or tweezers only if the hair tip is clearly visible above the skin
Clean the area and tools with alcohol before and after touching it
Seek medical care if there is increasing redness, swelling, pus, severe pain, fever, or repeated ingrown hairs
See a clinician if the bump does not improve within a few days or keeps coming back