The most common reason for pain when touching your pubic hair is an ingrown hair.
What is an Ingrown Hair?
An ingrown hair occurs when a hair, after being shaved, waxed, or naturally shedding, curls back or grows sideways into the skin instead of growing outwards. This is particularly common in areas with curly hair, like the pubic region.
Why Does an Ingrown Hair Cause Pain?
When the hair re-enters the skin, it triggers an inflammatory response from your body. This leads to:
- Inflammation: The area around the ingrown hair becomes red, swollen, and tender.
- Pain: The inflammation and the presence of a foreign object (the hair) irritate nerve endings, causing pain or discomfort when touched.
- Itching: The inflamed skin can also become itchy.
- Bump Formation: A small, often painful bump forms around the hair follicle. This bump can be filled with pus if an infection develops.
Other Possible Causes of Pain
While ingrown hairs are the most frequent culprit, other potential reasons for pain in the pubic hair area include:
- Folliculitis: This is an infection or inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacteria, fungi, or irritation from shaving. Folliculitis can cause small, red bumps that are tender to the touch.
- Razor Burn: This is caused by shaving and results in irritated, red, and sometimes bumpy skin.
- Skin Infections: Various skin infections, such as fungal infections or bacterial infections, can affect the pubic area and cause pain.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Some STIs can cause sores or lesions in the pubic region that are painful to touch.
- Contact Dermatitis: This can occur if your skin has a reaction to a product like soap, detergent, or lotion.
What to Do About It
Here's what you can do if you suspect an ingrown hair is the cause of your pain:
- Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to the area for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This can help to soften the skin and encourage the hair to release.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Gently exfoliate the area with a washcloth or soft brush. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as this can further irritate the skin.
- Avoid Picking: Resist the urge to pick or squeeze the bump, as this can increase the risk of infection and scarring.
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help exfoliate the skin and release the ingrown hair.
- See a Doctor: If the pain is severe, the area is significantly inflamed, or you suspect an infection, consult a doctor. They may prescribe an antibiotic cream or, in some cases, remove the hair.
If the pain persists or you suspect another cause, it's important to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
