By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Ingrown Hair
Herbal tinctures for ingrown hair are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, herbs, and botanicals that help alleviate the discomfort and appearance of ingrown hairs.
These natural remedies work by reducing inflammation, soothing the skin, and promoting healthy hair growth. For example, tea tree oil tincture has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling, while lavender oil tincture promotes relaxation and calms irritated skin.
By using herbal tinctures for ingrown hair, individuals can say goodbye to painful bumps and hello to smoother, more radiant skin, improving their overall self-confidence and comfort in their own skin.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for ingrown hair, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Urtica dioica
- 3. Plantago major
- 4. Hamamelis virginiana
- 5. Melissa officinalis
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Achillea millefolium
- 9. Echinacea angustifolia
- 10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for ingrown hair?
- What ailments similar to ingrown hair are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The herb's bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenes, work to reduce swelling and redness associated with ingrown hairs, allowing for a faster healing process. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of pot marigold tincture help combat bacterial growth, preventing infection and promoting healthy skin regeneration.
This natural remedy can effectively soothe and resolve ingrown hair issues, leaving skin looking clear and radiant.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce redness and inflammation associated with ingrown hairs.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.
- N-acyl-hexosamine: This compound has been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in inflammation and have antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent and treat ingrown hairs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds that aid in soothing and reducing inflammation associated with ingrown hairs.
- Leaves: The leaves contain similar properties as the flowers and are often used in combination to create a more potent tincture for treating ingrown hair.
- Stems: The stems also possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them a useful addition to tinctures for treating ingrown hair and reducing inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for ingrown hair.
- Gather calendula officinalis flowers in large quantities usually around 1 cup dried flowers per 4 cups liquid.
- Combine the dried flowers with vodka or a high proof spirit at a 1:4 ratio in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking it occasionally.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Label the bottle with the date and ingredients and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
2. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs.
The tincture's antiseptic qualities also help to prevent infection and promote healthy skin growth, allowing for a smoother and more even skin surface. Additionally, stinging nettle's ability to improve circulation may help to reduce the likelihood of hair follicles becoming clogged, which can contribute to ingrown hairs in the first place.
By addressing these underlying causes, stinging nettle tincture can provide effective relief from ingrown hair symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Saponins: These natural surfactants help break down keratin in hair, reducing the likelihood of ingrown hairs by allowing the hair to grow out of the skin more easily.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce inflammation and irritation associated with ingrown hairs, promoting healthy skin and hair growth.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce the risk of infection and promote wound healing in areas prone to ingrown hairs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are commonly used due to their high concentration of compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and prevent ingrown hairs.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are used because they contain similar compounds to the leaves, which aid in reducing inflammation and preventing infection associated with ingrown hairs.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help prevent infection and promote healing of the skin affected by ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for ingrown hair.
- Harvest urtica dioica leaves and stems by cutting them at the base with scissors to prevent damage.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer in a warm well-ventilated area for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area and facilitate extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with a neutral solvent such as ethanol or glycerin in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the container daily to extract the desired compounds.
3. Plantago major
Plantain tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
When applied topically, it reduces redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs, promoting a healthy environment for the skin to heal. Additionally, plantain's natural antibacterial compounds prevent infection and promote the breakdown of dead skin cells, allowing ingrown hairs to clear up quickly.
As a result, regular use of herbal plantain tinctures can help reduce the frequency and severity of ingrown hairs, leaving skin looking smoother and more even-toned.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Saponins: Saponins help to reduce inflammation and irritation associated with ingrown hair by forming a protective barrier on the skin surface and preventing bacterial overgrowth.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and swelling caused by ingrown hair.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent infection and promote wound healing, ultimately reducing the risk of ingrown hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Rich in aloe-like compounds and mucilages, which can help soothe and reduce inflammation.
- Stems: Contain a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, that can aid in skin health and reduce irritation.
- Roots: Used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help prevent and treat ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 25 percent plant material to 75 percent solvent by volume ratio of fresh leaves of major plant.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces and soak in a clean glass jar with solvent for 2 weeks.
- Shake the jar daily for 14 days to ensure even extraction of the plant's medicinal properties.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 4 weeks before use.
4. Hamamelis virginiana
American witch hazel tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its natural astringent properties, which help to shrink the appearance of pores and reduce inflammation.
The antiseptic and antibacterial compounds in witch hazel also combat acne-causing bacteria, promoting clear skin and preventing infections that can lead to ingrown hairs. Additionally, witch hazel's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort associated with ingrown hair.
By using an herbal American witch hazel tincture, individuals can experience relief from the painful and unsightly symptoms of ingrown hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Hamamelitannin: This polyphenolic compound helps reduce inflammation and itching caused by ingrown hairs, promoting a soothing and calming effect on the skin.
- Tannins: Tannins in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs, while also promoting the healing of affected skin.
- Oleanolic acid: This triterpenoid compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help prevent infection and reduce inflammation caused by ingrown hairs, promoting faster healing and preventing further irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain hamamelitannin, a compound with astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and reduce inflammation caused by ingrown hairs.
- Barks: The barks are used because they contain hamamelitannin as well, which can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with ingrown hairs.
- Roots: The roots are used because they also contain hamamelitannin and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, making them useful in treating ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 1 part of hamamelis virginiana roots and rhizomes fresh in the fall or early spring when it's dry.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material by spreading it out in a single layer for 2 weeks.
- Chop the dried plant material into smaller pieces and combine it with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking it every day for 2 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.
5. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture's active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation associated with ingrown hairs. Additionally, lemon balm's antiseptic properties prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for the hair follicles, allowing them to grow freely without becoming trapped or ingrown.
This natural remedy promotes a smooth, bump-free skin surface.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs.
- Citral: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent bacterial infections that can worsen ingrown hair symptoms.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Leaves are likely used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe and calm the skin affected by ingrown hairs.
- Stems: Stems might be used due to their potential to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can aid in treating ingrown hair symptoms.
- Roots: Roots are possibly used for their ability to promote skin health and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate ingrown hair discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for ingrown hair.
- Harvest melissa officinalis flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested melissa flowers and leaves in a warm place for 1 to 2 weeks to prevent mold.
- Combine 1 part dried melissa flowers and leaves with 2 parts 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and store in a cool dark place.
6. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which reduce swelling and redness associated with ingrown hairs.
The herb's antioxidants also help to soothe and calm the skin, promoting a healthy environment for the growth of new hair.
Additionally, St John's Wort has natural antibacterial properties that prevent infection and promote faster healing, making it an effective natural remedy for reducing the appearance of ingrown hairs.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Hyperforin: This prenylated phenolic compound may help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth associated with ingrown hairs, thus alleviating symptoms of PFB.
- N-acetyltryptophan: As a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, NAT in Hypericum perforatum may help regulate inflammation and modulate the immune system, which can contribute to the development of ingrown hairs.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, quercetin in Hypericum perforatum may help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation associated with ingrown hairs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection associated with ingrown hairs.
- Stems: The stems of Hypericum perforatum are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help to soothe and calm irritated skin caused by ingrown hairs.
- Flowers: The flowers of this plant are known for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for ingrown hair.
- Harvest the fresh flowers of hypericum perforatum at the peak of their fragrance and potency.
- Dry the flowers in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Combine 100 grams of dried flowers with 750 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with ingrown hair because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling, allowing for easier removal of ingrown hairs.
The antioxidants in dandelion also help to soothe the skin, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with ingrown hairs.
Additionally, dandelion's antimicrobial properties help to prevent infection and promote healthy healing, making it an effective natural remedy for preventing and treating ingrown hair.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with ingrown hair by reducing inflammation and promoting the breakdown of scar tissue, making it easier for hair to grow out of the skin.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to prevent infection and reduce inflammation associated with ingrown hair, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Saponins: These plant-derived compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection associated with ingrown hair, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin, which could potentially help reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that might help soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Seeds: The seeds of Taraxacum officinale are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which could potentially help reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 100g of fresh taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Clean and dry the harvested taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves with paper towels within 30 minutes.
- Combine 100g of the dried taraxacum officinale material with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking every 2 days.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
8. Achillea millefolium
Yarrow tinctures helps with ingrown hair because it has potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that reduce redness, swelling, and infection.
The tannins in yarrow also help to constrict blood vessels, reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation caused by ingrown hairs.
Additionally, yarrow's ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation can help to prevent future ingrown hairs from forming, promoting healthy skin and a reduced risk of scarring.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Ligustilide: This sesquiterpene lactone may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the skin, preventing ingrown hairs from becoming infected and more severe.
- Cichoriin: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs and promoting overall skin health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in ingrown hair.
- Flowers: Contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and swelling associated with ingrown hair.
- Stems: Rich in saponins and other compounds that help soothe and calm the skin, reducing irritation and promoting healing in ingrown hair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for ingrown hair.
- Harvest fresh achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in the morning to ensure peak potency and quality.
- Chop 1 part of the plant material by weight to 1 quart of 80 proof vodka to create a tincture.
- Combine the chopped plant material with vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow extraction to occur.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove solids.
9. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The tincture's active compounds, including kaempferol and quercetin, work to reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs, promoting a calm and healthy skin environment.
Additionally, the tincture's antimicrobial properties help to combat bacterial growth that can exacerbate ingrown hair issues, ultimately leading to improved skin clarity and reduced inflammation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically echinacoside and isoechinacoside, are found in Echinacea angustifolia and may help reduce inflammation and prevent infection associated with ingrown hair.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, in Echinacea angustifolia may help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the skin, which can help alleviate symptoms of ingrown hair.
- Alkamides: Alkamides, including alkylamides, in Echinacea angustifolia may possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce the severity of ingrown hair and prevent infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Roots: The roots are often used because they are believed to contain the highest concentration of active compounds, such as alkylamides, that help to reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.
- Barks: The barks are used because they contain compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infection and promote healing of ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for ingrown hair.
- Harvest 1:8 ratio of echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plant is dormant for optimal potency.
- Clean and chop the roots into small pieces to release their medicinal properties within 30 minutes.
- Combine 1 part roots with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks.
- Shake the jar daily to ensure even extraction and prevent the roots from settling on the bottom for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids within 30 minutes.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with ingrown hair because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hairs.
The tannins in licorice root also help to tighten the skin, allowing for a smoother passage for hair growth and reducing the likelihood of ingrowth. Additionally, licorice tincture's antiseptic and antimicrobial properties prevent bacterial and fungal infections that can exacerbate ingrown hair conditions, promoting healthy skin and hair growth.
Regular use of herbal licorice tinctures can help to alleviate discomfort and promote a smoother, more even complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with ingrown hair.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with ingrown hair by reducing inflammation and soothing skin irritation, creating a conducive environment for hair growth.
- Licoricidin: A phenolic compound, licoricidin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling associated with ingrown hair, promoting a healthy skin environment.
- Liquiritigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hair and promoting smooth skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for ingrown hair.
- Roots: The root of Glycyrrhiza glabra is the most commonly used part due to its high concentration of glycyrrhizic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection associated with ingrown hairs.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in tinctures because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that can help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation caused by ingrown hairs.
- Barks: The bark of Glycyrrhiza glabra is used in tinctures because it contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection, promoting healthy skin and preventing ingrown hairs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for ingrown hair.
- Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the early morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure optimal quality.
- Clean and dry the roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 to 3 weeks.
- Combine 100 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with 500 milliliters of 45% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking and gentle stirring.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for ingrown hair?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with ingrown hair is Calendula and Tea Tree oil-infused tinctures.
Calendula promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation, while Tea Tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that prevent infection. Additionally, a small amount of Witch Hazel tincture can be added to help reduce redness and soothe the skin. This combination can be used topically, 2-3 times a day, to help alleviate ingrown hair symptoms and promote healing.
It's essential to dilute the tinctures before application.
What ailments similar to ingrown hair are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to ingrown hair that are treated with herbal tinctures are folliculitis, acne, and skin irritations.
Herbal tinctures like tea tree oil, lavender oil, and calendula extract can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and preventing infection.
These natural remedies can also reduce the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation left behind by ingrown hairs.