Pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps) is a common ailment of the beard area. Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) or shaving bumps is a foreign parisitic inflammatory reaction involving papules and pustules. It is occurring in up to 60% African American men and other people with curly hair. It primarily affects curly haired males who shave.

Pseudofolliculitis pubis is a common condition hapening after pubic hair is shaved. Two mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of PFB premery is extrafollicular penetration occurs when a curly hair reenters the skin, and last is transfollicular penetration occurs when the sharp tip of a growing hair pierces the follicle wall.

Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) prevailingly affects black men and most noticeable around the beard and neck. Several measures of close shaving result in a hair cut below the surface. PFB is present mostly in black men. Black men who shave are inclined to this condition due to their tightly curved hair.

It causes small papules and pustules that can be confused with bacterial folliculitis. Americans are genetically inclined to PFB due to curvature of their hair follicles. Improper shaving techniques and the desire for a clean-shaven look can result in grown hairs via extrafollicular or transfollicular penetration.

Symptoms of Pseudofolliculitis Barbae

Common Symptoms of Pseudofolliculitis Barbae

• Irritation.
• Swelling.
• Inflammation.

Treatment of Pseudofolliculitis Barbae

Common Treatment of Pseudofolliculitis Barbae

• Topical combination cream (tretinoin 0.05%, fluocinolone acetonide 0.01%, and hydroquinone 4%) (Triluma) has been shown to provide some benefit by targeting the hyperkeratosis.
• Corticosteroid creams reduce inflammation of papular lesions.
• Dermoscopy has been used to demonstrate the pathophysiology and improve compliance.
• Topical antibiotics may successfully reduce skin bacteria and treat secondary infection.