Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by curled or coiled hairs growing back into the skin after shaving, leading to painful razor bumps, ingrown hairs, papules, pustules, and hyperpigmentation. It most commonly affects the beard and neck areas, and is especially prevalent among Black men.

Part I: Hair Removal

1. Wash hands

2. Cleanse (Pre-Hair Removal)

Bare minimum:

Gentle cleanser (removes bacteria, sweat, and oil)

Best option:

Exfoliating cleanser (BHA or gentle scrub) helps remove dead skin that can trap hairs

Examples: Gentle face scrubs, salicylic acid wash, enzyme exfoliants

If using depilatories = no exfoliation beforehand, just cleanse + soften (warm water or warm compress), and hydrate barrier deeply afterward

2. Warm Water Rinse or Warm Compress

• Hydrates and softens hair, causes it to swell slightly = less resistance during cutting
• This makes hair less likely to curl back into the skin post-shave

3. Hair Removal

Note: Do not use disposable razors. They cut hair below the skin’s surface, which increases the risk of ingrown hairs and razor bumps. Trimmers, safety razors, and depilatories remove hair at or just above the skin, making them far safer for preventing PFB.

A. Trimmer

B. Safety Razor

Note for both: Always with the grain.

C. Depilatory Cream

• Only every 2-3 days

• Do ½ of face and neck first and wait the specified amount of time (usually 5-10 min). Rinse. Apply to the remainder of the face and neck, wait the specified amount of time. Rinse, pat dry.