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 Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
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Definition:
Pseudofolliculitis barbae is the medical term for razor bumps. This condition is called "pseudo" folliculitis because it is caused not by a bacterial infection, but by the regrowth of hair after it has been shaved.
Related Terms
• Follicle
• Folliculitis
This condition occurs most often in people with very curly, kinky hair. After the hair has been shaved, it begins to grow back. Curly hair tends to kink into the skin instead of out the follicle causing a mechanical irritation. The hallmark of this irritation is red or hyperpigmented papules. Sometimes pustules can form especially if the papule gets secondarily infected. The main treatment for razor bumps is to not shave the hair.

Pronunciation: SOO-doh-fuh-LIK-yoo-LY-tis BAR-bee • (noun)

Also Known As: Razor bumps

Related Resources:

Bacterial Infections
Information about all types of bacterial skin infections.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Learn more about this chronic, scarring bacterial infection of the sweat glands.

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From Heather Brannon, MD,
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