Defining Pseudofolliculitis Barbae in 2001: A Review of the Literature and Current Trends
February 2002
in “
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
”
pseudofolliculitis barbae PFB chronic inflammatory condition tightly curled hair shave tweeze hair follicle hyperpigmented papules beard area prevention early intervention treatment options surgical methods Skin of Color Center PFB shaving tweezing hair follicle dark spots beard area prevention early intervention treatment options surgical methods
TLDR Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a chronic skin condition affecting mainly African American and Hispanic individuals, caused by shaving tightly curled hair, and managed by prevention and treatment but not curable.
In 2002, pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) was recognized as a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affected African American and Hispanic individuals with tightly curled hair who shave or tweeze frequently. The condition is caused by a combination of factors including the shape and direction of hair growth and the hair follicle's structure, leading to painful and sometimes hyperpigmented papules in the beard area. The condition, which can be emotionally distressing due to its cosmetic impact, is diagnosed clinically and managed through prevention and early intervention, with various treatments available but none offering a complete cure. The review covered the history, incidence, pathogenesis, clinical features, dermatopathology, prevention, and treatment options for PFB, including surgical methods, and introduced new data from the Skin of Color Center.
