Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
What is Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB)?
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is a chronic foreign body inflammatory reaction to the hair shaft, predominantly seen in individuals with coarse, curled hair who shave regularly. People of color have a higher risk of PFB as they are genetically predisposed to curly hair and curved hair follicles. Shaving against the grain, close shaving, multiple blade razors, and stretching the skin while shaving can cause a retraction of sharp edged hairs back into the follicle.
What does Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB) look like?
The appearance of PFB can range from mild cases with few to severe papules, pustules, ingrown hairs and widespread inflammation. Often times, scarring and hyperpigmentation may occur. In most cases, PFB is present on the beard area of the face and neck and can also occur on the pubic area, scalp, legs and axilla.