Stop shaving, waxing, or plucking the area until it heals
Wash the area gently with mild soap and warm 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 hydrocortisone cream for short-term inflammation relief
Use an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment if the skin is broken
Keep the area clean and dry
Wear loose clothing to reduce friction
Avoid picking, scratching, or shaving over the bump
Seek medical care if there is increasing pain, redness, swelling, pus, fever, or repeated ingrown hairs