Pseudofolliculitis

Pseudofolliculitis barbae (also known as barber's itch, folliculitis barbae traumatica, razor bumps, scarring pseudofolliculitis of the beard, and shave bumps) is a medical condition that occurs when hair that has been cut sharp by a razor, or a hair that is growing in a curved hair follicle, re-enters the skin causing inflammation and a foreign body reaction.

Causes

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is caused by shaving, particularly close shaving—because the cut hair may retract beneath the skin surface. It can also be caused by waxing, plucking, threading, and other methods of hair removal.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pseudofolliculitis barbae include inflammation, itching, and the development of papules, also known as razor bumps. These symptoms can occur anywhere hair is temporarily removed, especially in areas where the hair is thick.

Treatment

Treatment of pseudofolliculitis barbae includes letting the beard grow for one month and then keeping the beard cut to a length of 1–2 mm. Other treatments include careful shaving techniques, topical corticosteroids, topical and oral antibiotics, and topical retinoids.

See also

• Folliculitis
• Ingrown hair
• Razor burn

References

Pseudofolliculitis Resources
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