Medically reviewed on March 22, 2026 by Jillian Foglesong Stabile, MD, FAAFP. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.
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Table of contents
- What Causes Ingrown Hairs?
- What Causes Genital Warts?
- How To Identify Ingrown Hairs
- How To Identify Genital Warts
- Ingrown Hairs Treatment And Prevention
- Genital Warts Treatment And Prevention
- Next Steps
According to the CDC, as many as 1 in 5 sexually active adults in the US have an STI.[1] Understandably, this can introduce a layer of anxiety when you notice an unusual lump or bump—especially in the genital area.
Ingrown hairs and genital warts are two conditions with very different causes. While ingrown hairs are typically harmless and related to hair growth, genital warts are caused by certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.
Knowing how to tell the difference between genital warts vs. ingrown hairs can help you take the right next steps for your health and peace of mind.
What Causes Ingrown Hairs?
Ingrown hairs occur when a hair curls back into the skin instead of growing outward, leading to inflammation and irritation.
- Hair removal methods – Shaving, waxing, plucking, or threading can increase risk[2]
- Coarse or curly hair – More likely to grow back into the skin[2]
- Tight clothing – Friction can push hair back into the skin[2]
Ingrown Hair Complications
- Infection – Can form pus-filled cysts
- Hyperpigmentation – Dark spots after healing
- Scarring – Especially if irritated or picked
What Causes Genital Warts?
Genital warts are caused by specific strains of HPV, the most common STI in the US.[4]
HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including:
- Vaginal sex
- Anal sex
- Oral sex
- Genital contact
Genital warts are typically linked to HPV strains 6 and 11. While there’s no cure for HPV, the immune system often clears the virus within 1–2 years.[5]
Because HPV is highly contagious, it’s important to seek care if you notice symptoms.
Genital Warts Complications
- Itching or irritation
- Burning sensation
- Mild bleeding
Some HPV strains are linked to cancers such as cervical, penile, and throat cancer.[5]
How To Identify Ingrown Hairs
- Size – Small, usually a few millimeters
- Color – Red, purple, or darker than skin; may have visible hair
- Texture – Smooth and raised
- Pattern – Often isolated or scattered
- Location – Areas where hair is removed (genitals, legs, face)
How To Identify Genital Warts
- Size – Can grow and cluster over time
- Color – Flesh-toned, pink, or darker
- Texture – Rough, smooth, or cauliflower-like
- Pattern – Often grouped
- Location – Genitals, groin, thighs, or mouth (if oral transmission)
Ingrown Hairs Treatment And Prevention
- Warm compress – Helps release trapped hair
- Exfoliating products – Remove dead skin buildup
To prevent ingrown hairs:
- Shave in the direction of hair growth
- Use a sharp blade
- Keep skin hydrated
- Exfoliate regularly
- Wear loose clothing
Genital Warts Treatment And Prevention
- Topical medications – Prescribed creams like Aldara or Condylox
- Removal procedures – Cryotherapy, laser, or surgical removal
To reduce risk:
- Routine pelvic exams and Pap smears
- Use condoms or dental dams
- Communicate with partners
- Limit exposure risk
Regular STI testing remains one of the most effective ways to stay informed and reduce transmission risk.
Next Steps
If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with an ingrown hair or something more serious like genital warts, getting clarity early can help reduce stress and guide your next steps.
You can start with an at-home STD test for convenient screening.
If you have symptoms or need treatment, you can also explore online care options and connect with a licensed provider.
When in doubt, speaking with a healthcare professional can help you better understand what’s going on and move forward with confidence.
Related Content
Genital Herpes vs. Pimple: Symptoms & Treatment
How Long Do Genital Warts Last?
References
- CDC estimates 1 in 5 people in the U.S. have a sexually transmitted infection. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. January 25, 2021. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Professional CC medical. Ingrown hair: What it looks like, causes, treatment & prevention. Cleveland Clinic. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Ingrown hair. Mayo Clinic. May 18, 2022. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Professional CC medical. Genital warts: Causes, symptoms, treatment & prevention. Cleveland Clinic. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- HPV and cancer. National Cancer Institute. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Std Facts - Human papillomavirus (HPV). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April 12, 2022. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Professional CC medical. Genital warts: Causes, symptoms, treatment & prevention. Cleveland Clinic. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Genital warts: Signs and symptoms. American Academy of Dermatology. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Coolicc. How to get an ingrown hair out at home. Cleveland Clinic. May 10, 2022. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Coolicc. How to get an ingrown hair out at home. Cleveland Clinic. May 10, 2022. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
- Genital warts - statpearls - NCBI bookshelf. URL. Accessed October 23, 2023.
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