Ingrown hairsandHSV 1 or 2(herpes) have much in common.
However, there are key differences between the two conditions.
For example, ingrown hair cysts often appear singularly, whereas herpes blisters grow in clusters.
Evgen_Prozhyrko/ Getty Images
This article discusses the similarities and differences between ingrown hairs and herpes.
They typically clear up within a week.
Herpes lesions can be internal and external, with fluid-filled blisters and sores that often occur in clusters.
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They do not have a dark center and take longer to heal.
Ingrown Hair
Ingrown hairs usually appear afterhair removal, such as shaving, tweezing, or waxing.
Ingrown hair may also be referred to asrazor burnor shaving bumps.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2024.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2024.
Diagnosis: How Do I Know If This Bump Is Herpes or Ingrown Hair?
Schedule a visit to your healthcare provider or local clinic for an official diagnosis.
An ingrown hair is usually large, irritated, red, and painful.
Because of the location, sweat and build-up can cause the clogged follicle to become infected.
This is one key distinction in diagnosing ingrown hair.
The last factor you might consider is the length of time a cyst takes to heal.
Ingrown hairs should begin to clear up within a week.
Herpes outbreaks last two to four weeks.
If you’ve recently been sexually active with a new partner, herpes transmission could have occurred.
For example, do you have a fever?
Does it burn when you pee?
Treatment
Treatments vary drastically between ingrown hairs and herpes, so getting a proper diagnosis is critical.
Ingrown hair usually heals within a week or so.
Speak with a healthcare provider if it looks badly infected or lasts longer than two weeks.
Prescription treatments include oral antivirals that can be used daily to prevent future outbreaks and shedding.
Preventing ingrown hair is a matter of strategic hair removal and grooming.
Preventing the spread or outbreak of herpes is a daily and personal health responsibility.
Dead cells on the skin’s surface can clog hair follicles and cause ingrown hair.
Some people regularly experience ingrown cysts after routine hair removal.
To prevent cysts from developing, consider adding the following to your hair removal routine or look intopermanent removal.
Preventing herpes starts with sexual health education and safer sex practices.
Knowing exactly how and when herpes can be transmitted is key to keeping yourself and others safe.
Get smart about contraception.
Ingrown hair is a temporary skin condition that will clear up in about a week.
Herpes is a chronic STI with no cure.
Diagnosing genital blisters can be tricky.
If you recently waxed, you may rule out herpes.
Either way, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to get tested and officially diagnosed.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About genital herpes.
Sauerbrei A.Herpes genitalis: diagnosis, treatment and prevention.Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd.
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National Health Service.Ingrown hairs.
