What is a cystic ingrown hair?

Cystic ingrown hairs can be painful and frustrating to deal with. These types of ingrown hairs occur when hair curls back into the skin, causing inflammation and irritation. In some cases, the ingrown hair can become infected and form a cyst. Cystic ingrown hairs can be difficult to treat, but there are several things you can do to prevent them from occurring in the first place. What is a cystic ingrown hair? A cystic ingrown hair is a type of ingrown hair that becomes infected and forms a cyst. When a hair follicle becomes blocked, hair can start to grow sideways or even back into the skin. This can cause inflammation and irritation, which can lead to the development of a cyst. Cysts are typically small, round lumps that can be red or inflamed. They can be painful to the touch and may be filled with pus. In some cases, cystic ingrown hairs can lead to scarring or hyperpigmentation. Causes of cystic ingrown hairs Cystic ingrown hairs can occur for a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is shaving. When you shave, the hair is cut at an angle, which can cause it to grow back into the skin. This can lead to inflammation and irritation, which can eventually cause a cyst to form. Other causes of cystic ingrown hairs include: Tight clothing that rubs against the skin Dead skin cells that block hair follicles Curly hair that grows back into the skin Hormonal imbalances Genetics