Lasers in the Treatment of Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
May 1999
in “
Dermatologic Surgery
”
TLDR Lasers can effectively treat pseudofolliculitis barbae, but insurance often doesn't cover it, possibly due to racial bias.
The document discussed the use of lasers for treating pseudofolliculitis barbae, highlighting its effectiveness and potential for insurance reimbursement when recurrent infection or scarring occurred. However, it noted that most insurance companies were resistant to covering the procedure, possibly due to its novelty and unfamiliarity with the functional issues involved. The author raised concerns about potential racial bias in insurance coverage decisions, as pseudofolliculitis barbae is more common in certain races. The letter aimed to initiate a dialogue on this issue.