dermatologic disorders
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
Introduction
Pseudofolliculitis barbae is irritation of the skin due to hairs that penetrate the skin before leaving the hair follicle or that leave the follicle and curve back into the skin, causing a foreign-body reaction. Pseudofolliculitis barbae predominantly affects Black men. Risk factors include tightly curled hairs and certain keratin gene variations (KRT75,K6hf). It typically results from shaving. Pseudofolliculitis barbae is most problematic around the beard and neck, hence the term "barbae," which refers to the beard. However, pseudofolliculitis can occur in women who shave, especially in the groin area, and anywhere hair is shaved or plucked. It causes small papules and pustules that can be confused with bacterial Folliculitis . Scarring can eventually result. 