Suffering from ingrown hairs?

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae, more commonly known as razor bumps, is a condition that affects many men and women who shave regularly, especially a the back of their necks.

It presents as inflamed, irritated bumps on the skin, that occur when hair curls back into the skin after shaving, leading to red, painful spots.

This condition can be more than just an inconvenience; it can cause significant discomfort and affect one’s self-esteem.

So what can you do about it?

First, what is Pseudofolliculitis Barbae?

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is essentially an inflammatory reaction to ingrown hairs. It typically appears on areas that are shaved, such as the face, neck and legs.

The condition is particularly prevalent among men with curly or coarse hair, as these types of hair are more likely to curl back into the skin.

This can lead to folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles, which manifests as small, red, and sometimes pus-filled bumps.

Red bumps– Small, inflamed bumps that can be itchy or painful.

Dark spots– Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may occur, especially in darker skin tones.

Pustules– In severe cases, the bumps can become filled with pus.

Diagnosis is usually straightforward and is based on the appearance of the skin and a history of shaving.

A dermatologist may be consulted to confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatments.

What causes those pesky bumps?

The primary cause of ingrown hair is the shaving process itself. When hair is cut too short, it can curl back into the skin, leading to irritation and inflammation. Risk factors include:

Men with curly hair are more prone to ingrown hair due to the nature of their hair. Using a razor that cuts hair too close to the skin while shaving increases the likelihood of ingrown hairs.

Additionally, shaving against the grain or using dull blades can further exacerbate the problem.

Prevention is always better than cure

Preventing razor bumps involves changes in shaving practices and skincare routines. Here are some tips:

Use a sharp razor- Always use a sharp, clean razor to avoid tugging on the hair.

Shave with the grain- Shave in the direction of hair growth rather than against it.

Exfoliate regularly- Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and prevents hair from becoming trapped.

Moisturise- Keep the skin hydrated with a soothing, alcohol-free moisturiser to reduce irritation.

Consider alternatives- Electric razors or trimmers may reduce the risk of ingrown hairs compared to traditional razors.

These treatment options may help

If ingrown hairs do occur, various treatments can help alleviate the symptoms:

Topical treatments- Over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone or antibiotics can reduce inflammation and prevent infection.

Warm compresses- Applying warm, moist compresses can help soothe the area and reduce discomfort.

Medical advice- In persistent or severe cases, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger treatments or recommend laser hair removal as a long-term solution.

What if I’m now scarred?

Depending on your skin type and your after-shave regimen, razor bumps can scar and sometimes keloid, messing with your confidence and the overall shape and feel of the affected area. However, Keloids and scars can be treated.

Corticosteroid injections and silicone gel sheets can reduce inflammation and flatten the keloid.

Cryotherapy, which freezes the keloid, and laser therapy, targeting blood vessels, may also help. For severe cases, surgical removal combined with other treatments like radiation therapy can be effective but may risk recurrence.

Home remedies such as silicone-based products and pressure therapy may improve appearance but are less potent than medical treatments.

Though painful, sometimes unsightly and tedious to have to deal with, having ingrown hairs is a common but manageable condition.

With the right shaving techniques and skincare routines, you can greatly reduce the risk of developing razor bumps.

If the condition persists despite these efforts, seeking professional medical advice can provide additional relief and treatment options.