White spots after shaving intimate areas – causes
Purulent spots after shaving the bikini area may be the result of:
- Bacterial infection of hair follicles. It is natural that numerous bacteria live on the surface of our skin. They are not always dangerous to us, but when the skin provides them with good conditions for excessive multiplication and imbalance of microbiota, inflammation in hair follicles may occur. Another factor that significantly increases the risk of purulent pimples is skin irritation (for example, as a result of improper shaving). This causes the epidermal barrier to be breached and the aforementioned microorganisms and their metabolites to enter the epidermis, which also results in a whole cascade of inflammatory processes and unsightly, purulent skin eruptions.
- Ingrown hairs - there can be many causes of their formation. A common cause is improper shaving , but some people are genetically predisposed to this condition. If the hair is too weak to penetrate the upper layers of the skin, it bends just below the epidermis and changes the direction of growth, which results in inflammation and the collection of pus.
How to prevent purulent pimples after shaving?
First of all, think about how often you moisturize and exfoliate your skin. Many people skip the intimate areas during such treatments, and that's a big mistake!
- Exfoliation before shaving will help you “lift” the hair and remove excess dead skin cells. I have specially emphasized the word “before” – exfoliating after removing the hair can irritate the skin, which is then particularly delicate and needs hydration. And before you start exfoliating, read our text: “ Exfoliation – are you doing it right? ”
- What do you shave with? Remember that razor blades can become dull very easily if they are clogged with hair and skin. They are also not good for them if they are stored in a place where the razor is exposed to moisture and water.
- Make sure to moisturize! Both before and after epilation . Before the razor starts, cover the body part with a moisturizing cream that will protect the skin and allow the blades to slide smoothly over it. In turn, after the procedure, treat it with a moisturizing oil that will envelop it and allow for quick regeneration.
Proper care is the key to success – however, there are situations when the problem lies deeper and requires consultation with a dermatologist.
How to get rid of purulent lesions?
Try to refrain from squeezing , pressing or picking at any skin lesions yourself. It is very easy to cause secondary infection of the lesion and worsen the inflammation.
If you are bothered by white bumps after shaving your intimate areas and groin, first make sure that your underwear is comfortable and made of "breathable" materials (e.g. cotton). Minimize the risk of rubbing and discomfort, precisely so as not to irritate the skin even more.
Remember that it is worth consulting a dermatologist - especially if white spots after shaving are a recurring problem or if neither solid preparation for shaving nor any of the possible "home" methods help you. In some cases, local antibiotic therapy may be necessary .
- Acne-like breakouts could be folliculitis , "American Academy of Dermatology Association", https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/az/folliculitis [accessed on April 20, 2022].
- Folliculitis , "American Osteopathic College of Dermatology", https://www.aocd.org/page/Folliculitis [accessed 20/02/2022].
Created at: 15/08/2022
Updated at: 15/08/2022
