How is pseudofolliculitis barbae treated?

Clearly, the definitive treatment is growth of a beard; however, if this is not an option, several techniques may decrease the number of inflamed papules. The beard should be shaved in the direction of growth with a single-edged razor. The skin should not be stretched while shaving. Hairs that have clearly recurved into the skin should be released with a sterile needle, but such hairs should not be plucked. Some men with this condition may use clippers that purposefully leave short stubble. Others may obtain good results with chemical depilatories. If inflammation is severe, short-term treatment with a low-potency topical corticosteroid may be effective. Laser hair removal or topical eflornithine represent emerging treatment options for those with intractable disease and a requisite need to maintain a clean shaven appearance.

Schulze R, Meehan KJ, Lopez A, et al: Low-fluence 1,064-nm laser hair reduction for pseudofolliculitis barbae in skin types IV, V, VI, Dermatol Surg 34:98–107, 2009.

Garcia-Zuazaga J: Pseudofolliculitis barbae: review and update on new treatment modalities, Mil Med 168:561– 564, 2003.