Which skin type is particularly susceptible to ingrown hairs?

Curly and coarse hair types are particularly susceptible to ingrown hairs because of the way the hair grows and its structural characteristics. When curly hair grows, it can easily bend back into the skin or grow sideways instead of straight out of the follicle. This tendency can result in the hair becoming trapped beneath the skin, leading to inflammation and irritation, which are the hallmarks of ingrown hairs. Coarse hair often has a thicker shaft, which can exacerbate this problem as it may be more likely to pierce the skin rather than growing smoothly out of it.

This susceptibility is heightened in individuals with curly hair types as the hair’s natural curling can create more opportunities for the hair to grow back into the skin rather than outward. In contrast, fine and straight hair types usually have a smoother growth pattern that allows them to exit the follicle more easily, making them less likely to become ingrown. Hence, individuals with curly and coarse hair should take precautions, especially while shaving or waxing, to minimize this risk.