The medical and surgical therapy of pseudofolliculitis barbae.
Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is a common, chronic, inflammatory skin disorder seen mainly in individuals with curly hair. This condition is seen most frequently in black men who shave their beards but may also be seen in women of all races who wax or shave the axillary and pubic skin. The etiology of PFB is multifactorial, and heretofore a cure has been considered impossible for those desiring a clean-shaven face. The following article serves to discuss the current medical and surgical therapies available for this condition. Medical treatments for this condition include various combinations of topical antibiotics, corticosteroids, and retinoids. In the surgical arena, laser therapy has revolutionized the treatment of PFB and has enabled cure for the first time for those plagued by this disorder and for whom a beardless face is acceptable.
Bridgeman-Shah
Sharon
S
Department of Dermatology, Howard University College of Medicine, 2041 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20060, USA. sbridgeman-shah@howard.edu
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D044383:Black People; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005499:Folliculitis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000235:genetics / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006204:Hair Removal; D006801:Humans; D007641:Keratolytic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy; D012176:Retinoids / Q000008:administration & dosage
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D007641:Keratolytic Agents; D012176:Retinoids