Hair & Scalp
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
Razor bumps; ingrown hairs
Very common, especially with curly hair
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Manageable; improves with technique changes
What Is It?
Pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps) is a common, irritating rash in the beard area caused by shaved hairs curving back and growing into the skin. It leads to red bumps, pus-filled spots, and sometimes darkening or scarring. It's most common in people with curly or coarse hair.
Signs & Symptoms
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Red bumps and pus-filled spots in the beard area
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Ingrown hairs visible under the skin
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Itching, tenderness, or burning after shaving
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Darkening of the skin over time
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Sometimes firm scars (keloid-like) with chronic irritation
Why Does It Happen?
When curly hair is shaved closely, the sharp tip can curl back and re-enter the skin, causing an inflammatory reaction — like a splinter your body reacts to. Close shaving, coarse or curly hair, and shaving against the grain all make it worse. It is NOT an infection and NOT contagious.
Treatment Options
The most effective step is changing hair-removal technique to stop hairs from re-entering the skin. Medications help calm inflammation and discoloration.
ADJUST SHAVING
Shave less closely, with the grain; consider growing the beard out.
PREP & RELEASE
Warm water, gentle exfoliation, and freeing trapped hairs before shaving.
TOPICAL TREATMENTS
Retinoids, mild steroids, or antibiotics to calm bumps and dark spots.
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
A longer-term solution that reduces the hairs causing the problem.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Shave in the direction hair grows; avoid stretching the skin for a close shave
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Use a single- or double-blade razor, not the closest-shaving multi-blade
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Soften the beard with warm water and use a lubricating gel
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Consider growing the beard out for a few weeks to let skin heal
When to Call Your Provider
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Painful, spreading bumps or signs of infection
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Firm, growing scars (keloids) in the beard area
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Significant dark spots that concern you
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No improvement despite changing shaving technique
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Razor Bumps (Pseudofolliculitis Barbae). https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/prevent-razor-bumps
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Ingrown Hair. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/hair-conditions/ingrown-hair/
DermNet. Pseudofolliculitis Barbae. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/pseudofolliculitis-barbae
MSD/Merck Manual. Pseudofolliculitis Barbae. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/hair-disorders/pseudofolliculitis-barbae
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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