Chronic Ingrown Facial Hairs

For as long as I can remember I have always had a problem with ingrown hairs in my mustache area. Not the kind of ingrown hairs that hurt or have bumps, but the ones where the just lie below the surface. I have tried many ingrown hair products and none of them seemed to work. Also, I have tried growing my mustache out (one month) and then shaved and they are still there right after the shave. It is like they never come up, so I always have a “dirty” looking mustache even after a clean shave. Any ideas?

P.S. I also have a condition under my chin where hairs grow out of hundreds of white bumps. However, 10% benzoyl peroxide each day is helping clear them up.    

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
You seem to be having folliculitis and ingrown hair. Cleanse the area thoroughly and apply a good mild exfoliating scrub on that. For folliculitis , please keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.