By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Ingrown Hair
Herbal creams for ingrown hair are topical treatments made from natural ingredients that help prevent and soothe ingrown hairs.
They typically contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with ingrown hairs. Examples of herbal creams that help with ingrown hair include tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile.
These creams improve lives by providing relief from ingrown hair discomfort, promoting healthy skin, and reducing the risk of infection.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for ingrown hair, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Echinacea purpurea
- 4. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Helianthus annuus
- 7. Matricaria chamomilla
- 8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 9. Plantago major
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for ingrown hair?
- What ailments similar to ingrown hair are treated with herbal creams?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds that calm and reduce redness in the affected area, making it ideal for treating ingrown hairs. The antimicrobial properties of aloe vera creams prevent bacterial growth and promote healing, helping to alleviate ingrown hair pain and discomfort.
Additionally, aloe vera creams help to soften and hydrate the skin, reducing irritation and promoting a smooth, even skin texture.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a type of anthraquinone, helps to prevent ingrown hair by reducing inflammation and promoting the breakdown of ingrown hair follicles.
- Lupeol: Lupeol, a triterpenoid, has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hair, promoting a faster healing process.
- Aloin: Aloin, a type of anthraquinone, acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent that helps to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hair and promoting a smooth skin texture.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Aloe vera gel extracted from the leaves is commonly used due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and inflammation associated with ingrown hairs.
- Gel from the leaves: The gel has anti-bacterial properties which help prevent infections and aid in healing ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for ingrown hair.
- Melt 1 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler at low heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Mix 1/2 cup of pure aloe vera gel with 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil in a separate bowl.
- Combine the melted coconut oil with the aloe vera gel mixture in a blender and blend for 2 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter to the blender and blend for another minute.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and solidify for 30-40 minutes.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The cream soothes and calms the skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs. Calendula's antiseptic properties prevent bacterial infection, which can exacerbate ingrown hair conditions. Additionally, its moisturizing properties help to keep the skin hydrated, reducing friction and irritation that can lead to ingrown hairs.
Regular application of Calendula cream can help prevent ingrown hair and promote healthy skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Carotenoids: These pigmented compounds help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the skin, thereby preventing ingrown hairs from becoming infected or forming painful bumps.
- Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage, which can contribute to ingrown hair formation, and also help to reduce inflammation and promote collagen production.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce redness, swelling, and bacterial growth associated with ingrown hairs, promoting a faster and more comfortable healing process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds that help soothe and heal skin irritations.
- Leaves: Leaves are also used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce redness and prevent infection in ingrown hair.
- Roots: While less commonly used than flowers and leaves, roots of Calendula officinalis are still used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in skin regeneration and healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for ingrown hair.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the fresh flowers at 40°c for 2 hours using a food dehydrator.
- Infuse 100g of dried flowers in 1l of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
- Strain the infused oil after 2 weeks and discard the solids.
- Mix 200g of the infused oil with 100g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter.
3. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to stimulate collagen production.
The cream's soothing and calming effects can help reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs, making it easier to remove the affected hair. Additionally, the cream's antiseptic properties can help prevent infection and promote healing, allowing the skin to recover from ingrown hair more efficiently.
This can lead to smoother and healthier skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with ingrown hairs, promoting a faster recovery.
- Caffeic acid: As a phenolic compound, caffeic acid exhibits antimicrobial properties that prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.
- Alkylamides: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate redness, swelling, and discomfort caused by ingrown hairs, allowing the skin to heal faster.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Roots: Rich in isobutyl amide, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and prevent ingrown hairs.
- Flowers: Contain alkaloids and glycosides that may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and prevent ingrown hairs.
- Leaves: Have been found to contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for ingrown hair.
- Harvest the roots of echinacea purpurea plants at the end of the growing season when the tops have turned yellow and died back.
- Dry the roots in a warm dry place for 2 weeks at a temperature of 35 degrees celsius.
- Grind 10 grams of dried echinacea roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 20 grams of shea butter 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of the echinacea powder in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture until the beeswax and shea butter have melted and the mixture has cooled to a temperature of 40 degrees celsius.
4. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea tree oil in these creams reduces bacteria and inflammation, which can help to prevent ingrown hairs from becoming infected. Additionally, the oil's astringent properties help to reduce the size of pores, making it easier for ingrown hairs to break through the skin's surface.
This can help to alleviate the discomfort and irritation associated with ingrown hairs, promoting healthy and smooth skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Cineole: As a natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent, cineole helps reduce inflammation and prevent infection in ingrown hair, promoting healing and preventing further irritation.
- Linalool: This terpene has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help combat bacterial infections that can cause ingrown hair to become inflamed and painful, thereby promoting a faster healing process.
- Catechin: Catechin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with ingrown hair, allowing the skin to heal faster and minimizing the risk of scarring.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Leaves are widely used due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent infection associated with ingrown hairs.
- Seeds: Seeds are used for their oil, which has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm irritated skin and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.
- Stems: Stems are sometimes used to extract the oil, which is used in creams to prevent ingrown hairs by reducing inflammation and fighting off bacterial infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 20 fresh leaves of melaleuca alternifolia at peak potency when in flower for maximum oil content.
- Steam distill the leaves to release essential oil for 2 hours with 3 liters of water at 100 degrees celsius.
- Combine 50 grams of beeswax with 50 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler for melting.
- Mix 20 grams of melaleuca alternifolia essential oil with 10 grams of vitamin e oil in a separate container.
- Blend the essential oil mixture with the melted beeswax and coconut oil mixture for 5 minutes.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The calming effects of the lavender oil can reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs. Its antiseptic properties also help to prevent infection and promote healing, allowing the skin to recover faster.
Additionally, the moisturizing properties of the cream can help to keep the skin hydrated and reduce the friction that can cause ingrown hairs, making it a popular choice for individuals prone to ingrown hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Linalool: This terpene helps reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritation caused by ingrown hairs, promoting a more comfortable healing process.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help prevent infection and promote the healing of ingrown hair follicles.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation associated with ingrown hairs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help soothe and calm the skin, reducing irritation associated with ingrown hairs.
- Flowers: Known for their calming and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and promote healing of ingrown hair affected skin.
- Roots: Contain antiseptic and antifungal properties, which help to combat bacterial and fungal infections often caused by ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 1 pound of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning after dew has evaporated.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids.
- Mix 1 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter.
- Heat the mixture over low heat and whip until it thickens and cools into a cream.
6. Helianthus annuus
Helianthus annuus, also known as sunflower, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The cream's ability to soothe and calm irritated skin reduces redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs. Additionally, the cream's antiseptic properties prevent infection and promote the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Helianthus annuus creams can effectively alleviate discomfort and promote the resolution of ingrown hair issues, promoting smooth and healthy skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Helianthus annuus creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Squalene: Helps with ingrown hair by preventing inflammation and promoting the removal of dead skin cells, thereby reducing the likelihood of hair follicles becoming clogged.
- Tocopherols: Contributes to the prevention of ingrown hair by acting as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals, and promoting collagen synthesis to improve skin elasticity.
- Fatty acids: Helps with ingrown hair by moisturizing the skin, reducing irritation, and promoting the normalization of skin pH, which can help prevent hair follicles from becoming clogged and inflamed.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sunflower used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Seeds: They are used due to their high content of unsaturated fatty acids, which help to soften and moisturize the skin, reducing inflammation associated with ingrown hairs.
- Flowers: The flower petals are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation caused by ingrown hairs.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their astringent properties, which help to reduce inflammation and tighten the skin, preventing ingrown hairs from becoming infected or inflamed.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sunflower for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 20 helianthus annuus flowers when in full bloom for their intense yellow color and medicinal properties.
- Dry the helianthus annuus flowers in a single layer at 35 degrees celsius for 7 hours.
- Steep 20 grams of dried helianthus annuus flowers in 500 ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 60 degrees celsius for 6 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Mix the infused oil with a humectant like honey or glycerin and a preservative like phenonip in a ratio of 10:1:1 by weight to create a smooth cream.
7. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The soothing effects of chamomile calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs. Its ability to promote skin healing and prevent infection also helps to alleviate discomfort and promote healthy hair growth.
Additionally, chamomile's gentle and non-irritating nature makes it an ideal ingredient for sensitive skin, allowing it to work effectively without causing further irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, preventing further irritation and promoting healing around ingrown hair follicles.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin helps alleviate redness and swelling associated with ingrown hair, while also promoting skin health and preventing infection.
- Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone acts as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent, helping to calm and protect the skin around ingrown hair, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm the skin and reduce inflammation associated with ingrown hair.
- Leaves: They are used because of their astringent properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the skin.
- Seeds: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help to prevent infection and promote healing of the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 500g of dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla and sift them through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any debris.
- Combine 200g of the sifted flowers with 200g of vegetable oil in a double boiler over low heat for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Add 100g of beeswax and 50g of candelilla wax to the mixture and heat until melted and well combined over 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into small glass jars and allow it to cool and solidify completely for 30 minutes to an hour.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The cream's soothing and calming effects help to reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs. The glycosides present in Glycyrrhiza glabra also aid in reducing irritation and itching caused by ingrown hairs.
Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to keep the skin hydrated and smooth, making it easier for ingrown hairs to grow out and reducing the risk of further irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Licorice saponins: Help to reduce inflammation and prevent ingrown hairs by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to ingrown hair formation.
- Flavonoids: Possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing irritation and inflammation caused by ingrown hairs.
- Glycyrrhetic acid: Acts as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent, helping to prevent infection and promote healing in areas affected by ingrown hairs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for ingrown hair due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used in creams to help reduce redness and inflammation caused by ingrown hairs, providing a calming effect.
- Barks: The barks are utilized in creams to help reduce irritation and inflammation, promoting a soothing and comfortable skin environment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for ingrown hair.
- Extract 2 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Combine 1/2 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a double boiler.
- Add the glycyrrhiza glabra extract to the water-oil mixture and heat it gently for 10 minutes.
- Whip the mixture with an electric mixer until it thickens and forms a smooth cream.
9. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The plantain extract contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs. The cream also soothes and calms the skin, reducing irritation and discomfort. Additionally, plantain's astringent properties help to reduce excess oil and bacteria that can clog pores and cause ingrown hairs, promoting a smooth and healthy skin appearance.
This makes plantain creams a popular natural remedy for ingrown hair prevention.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Apolipids: Apolipids in Plantago major creams help with ingrown hair by reducing inflammation and promoting the breakdown of scar tissue, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with ingrown hairs.
- Fatty acids: Fatty acids, especially oleic acid, in Plantago major creams help with ingrown hair by reducing inflammation, promoting the healing of skin lesions, and improving skin hydration to prevent further irritation.
- Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds, such as caffeic acid, in Plantago major creams help with ingrown hair by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce redness, swelling, and irritation associated with ingrown hairs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation caused by ingrown hairs.
- Roots: Used for their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce bacterial growth and inflammation, promoting healing and preventing infection.
- Seeds: Used for their emollient and moisturizing properties, which help to soften and hydrate the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs and promoting overall skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried plantago major leaves and flowers from a clean environment and store them airtight.
- Dry the harvested material in a single layer at 50°c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Combine 20g of dried material with 100g of carrier oil in a double boiler and heat for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids after 30 minutes.
- Whip 20g of beeswax and 100g of shea butter in a separate bowl then add the infused oil mixture.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The cream's active ingredients reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs, promoting healing and soothing the affected area. The antiseptic properties of Taraxacum officinale cream prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for skin regeneration, reducing the risk of further ingrown hairs and promoting smooth skin.
Its natural properties make it an effective and gentle solution for ingrown hair treatment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with ingrown hair.
- Inulin: Inulin is a type of polysaccharide that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hair.
- Fatty acids: Taraxacum officinale contains various fatty acids, including linoleic acid, that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help calm the skin and reduce irritation caused by ingrown hair.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and promote wound healing, making them potentially beneficial for ingrown hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Used in creams due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and calm the skin.
- Roots: Utilized in creams for their potential to reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
- Buds: Employed in creams to take advantage of their antibacterial and antioxidant properties that aid in preventing ingrown hair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for ingrown hair.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh taraxacum officinale flowers at dawn when dew is still present on leaves.
- Dry the taraxacum officinale flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 1 hour to preserve their potency.
- Combine 1 cup of dried taraxacum officinale flowers with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
- Melt the mixture in a double boiler at 160°f for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and allow it to cool to room temperature.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for ingrown hair?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with ingrown hair is a blend of tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile.
Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Aloe vera soothes and calms the skin, reducing redness and itching.
Chamomile cream helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Together, these herbal creams create a powerful combination that not only prevents ingrown hairs but also soothes and calms the skin, promoting overall skin health and well-being.
Regular use can lead to smooth, irritation-free skin.
What ailments similar to ingrown hair are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to ingrown hair that are treated with herbal creams are acne, folliculitis, and razor burn.
These conditions share common symptoms such as redness, inflammation, and painful bumps on the skin.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm these skin irritations, promoting healthy healing and reducing the appearance of blemishes and scars.