Ingrown Hairs on the Face

I have seen a Dermatologist and searched online for methods to treat ingrown hairs on my face.  I have found contradictory statements from my Dermatologist and online; therefore, I do not know what to do.  My Dermatologist does not have the time to answer my questions even when I am there for an appointment.

I have let all my hair grow out, including the ingrown hairs.  I used to tweeze some of my hairs and suspect this is the cause of my ingrown hair problem, so I have not done so anymore.  I have two choices and a few subchoices before me:

1) Shave using a 1-blade razor all facial hair and treat the areas with previous ingrown hairs, which still have some redness, applying benzaclin (or differin?) every night indefinitely.
Concerns:  can ingrown hairs continue to cause problems although I let them grown out and plan to only shave them?  what is the difference between differin and benzaclin? Can they cause skin discoloration if used so often?

2) Get laser hair removal on my face.  I have very sensitive skin however.
Concerns:  It seems very risky as I have heard of people, for other reasons, who have gotten laser treatment on there face and have serious permanent scars.  I do not seem to be getting objective advice from Dermatologists about this.  I most certainly do not want a permanent scar, especially because the redness on my face is not overwhelming.  However, the thought of not having to worry about ingrown hairs and not shaving is highly appealing.

I appreciate your advice.  If you know someone I can speak to about this, I would be grateful, as an interactive conversation with an objective Dermatologist for 10 minutes might just let me resolve this issue finally.  Please e-mail me at ***@**** with a name and number if it is possible. I appreciate your advice either way.  Thank you for your help.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Some patients respond to gentle shaving methods and a shaving cream containing benzoyl peroxide (Benzashave.)

For problem cases, laser is an excellent optionm if your skin is brown or black and you have untanned skin.  Laser is fine even for sensitive skin.  The risk of permanent scarring is minuscule, when treatment is done properly.   You need to be skeptical of stroies from friends--what kind of laser treatments were they having?

I advise you to consult one or more laser clinics.  There are likely to be many with lots of experience and good medical supervision.

Since insurance does not reimburse this, you should compare prices as well.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff