Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) or shaving bumps is a foreign body inflammatory reaction involving papules and pustules. It primarily affects curly haired males who shave.
Pseudofolliculitis pubis is a similar condition occurring after pubic hair is shaved or waxed
Mechanism
Three mechanisms are involved in pseudofolliculitis barbae or Pseudofolliculitis pubis:
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Extrafollicular penetration occurs when a curly hair reenters the skin, because hair are generally curved. The sharp pointed hair from a recent shave briefly surfaces from the skin and reenters a short distance away.
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Transfollicular penetration occurs when the sharp tip of a growing hair pierces the follicle wall. Close shave results in a sharp tip below the skin surface, which is then more likely to pierce the follicular wall.
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Folliculitis is an infection and inflammation of the hair follicles. The condition occurs with waxing and, may be superficial or deep within the follicles. The weak end of the hair is having a hard time coming out to the surface and grows inside the follicle, the hair follicle becomes red and irritated, and pus-filled pimples form.
What can you do?
- Change you shaving method: several methods of close shaving result in a hair cut below the surface. (including pulling the skin taut while shaving, shaving against the grain, and using double- or triple-bladed razors)
- Shave or wax following the hair growth
- Exfoliate the skin surface to help the hair stay out of the skin ( PFB Vanish)
- If your skin is sensitive combine exfoliation AND hydration (Ducray Ikeriane)
- Treat the inflamed follicle with anti inflammatory and antiseptic product (Hexomedine Transcutanee)
