Pseudofolliculitis barbae and related disorders

Pseudofolliculitis barbae, although not a serious medical problem, is certainly a distressing one for the affected patient. Its pathogenesis lies in an ingrown hair arising from the curved hair and follicle common in black men and women. Improper shaving techniques cause ingrown hairs through both transfollicular and extrafollicular mechanisms. Various treatment modalities exist, but there is no cure. Treatment must be individualized, as not all regimens will work for each patient. With diligence, pseudofolliculitis barbae can in many instances be controlled. Dermatitis papillaris capillitii is related to pseudofolliculitis barbae because its pathogenesis also lies in a curved hair and follicle. The treatment differs, however. Mild to moderately severe cases can be kept under good control with intralesional injections of steroid and a topical chloramphenicol and steroid cream mixture. Scarred or keloidal lesions may require surgery.