How to Treat Pseudofolliculitis Barbae

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a type of severe razor bump that occurs from shaving. It is more common in African American men. Their curly hair, when shaved, can curl back into the face causing irritated bumps. Pseudofolliculitis barbae, if left untreated, can cause redness, scarring and swelling. The first step in treatment is taking a few days off from shaving; you must allow the skin time to heal. Prevention of pseudofolliculitis barbae includes avoiding close shaves.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Post shave product with salicylic acid
• Non-acnegenic shaving cream
• Microdermabrasion
• Regenerating lotion
• Soft bristle brush
• Facial cleanser

1. Purchase a post-shave product containing salicylic acid from a local drug store. This product clears pores, moisturizes, exfoliates and prevents infection. Apply the product after shaving and allow it to remain on your face all day.

2. Shave with a non-foaming shaving cream that does not contain acnegenic. Shaving creams formulated with lots of lubrication are ideal for soothing skin affected with pseudofolliculitis barbae.

3. Do not use products on your skin that contain alcohol---they can severely dry out your skin further complicating the pseudofolliculitis barbae condition.

4. Scrub your face daily with a microdermabrasion product followed by a regenerating lotion. The gentle exfoliating scrub helps manage ingrown hairs. Find a product that has glycolic and salicylic acid.

5. Dislodge ingrown hairs by brushing your face with a soft bristle brush and a facial cleanser. Use a circular motion to get rid of the dead skin cells blocking the hair follicles.

Tips & Warnings

• Witch hazel, azulene and allantoin reduce swelling and redness.
• Don't pull the skin while you shave to avoid shaving too close.

References

• Razor Bumps (Pseudofolliculitis Barbae)

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