Pseudofolliculitis Barbae: Review and Update on New Treatment Modalities

Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) was a chronic inflammatory condition of the hair follicle caused by ingrown hairs, leading to an inflammatory foreign body reaction. The pathogenesis of PFB was multifactorial, influenced by hair type and growth direction. It posed a significant challenge in the armed forces due to the necessity for servicemen to be clean-shaven for proper gas mask fitting, especially in environments with biological and chemical threats. The article reviewed the etiology, pathogenesis, classification, and new treatment modalities for managing PFB.