Finding a sore or tender bump in your genital area can definitely be scary, especially when you’re not sure what it is. For many people, half a dozen possibilities run through their minds from simple pimples or boils to MRSA infections and STIs. After all, some of the appearances and symptoms of those issues are very similar, so telling them apart can be difficult.
That’s certainly the case with ingrown hairs and herpes sores. While the former is generally harmless, the latter is fairly serious and requires medical attention. Understanding the differences between them can help you determine which one you might be dealing with. Here, we’ll explain what to look for when you’re concerned about ingrown hair vs herpes.
Ingrown Hairs
An ingrown hair happens when a hair grows back into the skin rather than up and out of the follicle the way it should. They can crop up anywhere hair grows, but they’re particularly common in areas where people shave or wax. That includes the legs, armpits, bikini line, and pubic area.
Ingrown hairs can cause raised red bumps that are often tender. Those bumps can get infected and fill with pus as well, which makes them even more sore and painful. They usually heal on their own. Keeping the area clean will help minimize the risk of infection to an extent. You can also apply antibiotic ointment or cream to them to speed healing.
Herpes
Herpes is an infection. It’s caused by the herpes simplex virus. HSV-1 is a common infection, and an estimated 67 percent of people carry this virus in their system. It causes cold sores around the mouth, but it can be spread to the genitals. HSV-2 is the virus that causes genital herpes.
Genital herpes causes small, painful blisters that may break open and turn into sores. Those sores can be painful, and they may burn or tingle. They also tend to come in clusters rather than single blisters or sores. Many people experience flu-like symptoms during their first outbreak as well. Those might include swollen lymph nodes, fevers, body aches, and fatigue.
Spotting the Differences Between Ingrown Hairs and Herpes
Though herpes and ingrown hairs can look similar at a glance, there are several differences between the two. Ingrown hairs usually go away fairly quickly whereas herpes sores linger for a bit. Bumps from herpes develop into blisters. Then, they burst and crust over. That doesn’t happen with ingrown hairs.
Tenderness can also be a clue. Though ingrown hairs may be sensitive and uncomfortable, especially if they get infected, herpes sores are usually more painful. They often start with slight swelling, burning, and tingling even before bumps appear. After the blisters burst, they’re even more uncomfortable. As mentioned, herpes sores often appear in clusters while ingrown hairs usually happen one at a time.
Reaching Out for Help If You Need It
Herpes and ingrown hairs can look a bit similar, so many people aren’t quite sure which one they’re dealing with when they have unusual bumps or sores appear in their genital area. There are noticeable differences that set the two apart. If you have a bump or sore that you’re uncertain about, though, it’s always best to reach out to a doctor. They can examine the sore, test for herpes, and provide treatment if needed. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.