Pseudofolliculitis Barbae

Key Points
Type of Folliculitis affecting areas which are shaved regularly
Most cases are due to infectious organisms, usually bacteria
Consists of pustules located on hair follicles, often pink or red in color, and may be painful when the entire follicle becomes involved

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a skin condition in which hair follicles become inflamed or infected and hairs become ingrown after shaving. It consists of pustules located on the affected follicle, and will be surrounding by inflamed tissue that is pink or red in color. Mild cases will be tender and itchy, but in severe cases where the entire follicle becomes involved, lesions may become painful. Lesions may erupt and form scabs. Pseudofolliculitis barbae forms in areas where shaving is common (face in men, legs, underarms, groin in women).

All age, gender and ethnic groups can develop pseudofolliculitis barbae. It is commonly due to an infection of the skin by bacteria. Men are more likely to develop the condition, as are persons with curly hair.

Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)
Acne Vulgaris
Folliculitis
Sarcoidosis
Tinea Barbae

Diagnosis
Key Points
Diagnosis based on skin appearance
No other testing is typically necessary

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is generally diagnosed based on appearance. No other testing is typically necessary.

Treatment
Self care measure are recommended to reduce the severity of the condition
*In severe cases, more aggressive treatment may be pursued by health care professionals
OTC Options: lotions containing glycolic acid

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is typically treated with self-care measures. Health care professionals recommend ceasing shaving to allow lesions to resolve. Additionally, use of proper skin care such as moisturizing shaving creams, lotions which contain glycolic acid, and use of single-bladed razors will assist in preventing new lesions. In severe cases, health care professionals may prescribe certain Antibiotics or recommend laser hair removal, which may be very effective in some cases. However, pseudofolliculitis barbae does not always respond to treatment and the affected person may be forced to allow hair to grow in the area without shaving.