Pseudofolliculitis barbae: understanding the condition and the role of facial grooming

Pseudofolliculitis barbae ( PFB ) is an inflammatory condition of the beard area, with a high prevalence in men of subequatorial African ancestry and, to a much lesser extent, Indo‐Europeans. But it can affect both men and women of all ethnicities. Invariably reported as being associated with shaving, recent evidence suggests a strong genetic component in patients with persistent PFB . There is a lack of robust clinical evidence to support recommendations to avoid or curtail shaving or to shave with a single‐blade razor. There is recent clinical evidence that PFB is not exacerbated by daily shaving with a multiblade razor as part of a regimen. Further, there is preliminary evidence that a daily shaving regimen, which includes pre‐shave hydration and post‐shave moisturization, may be beneficial. To develop evidence‐based initial management strategies for PFB , there is a requirement for more randomized blinded clinical trials comparing the use of multi‐ and single‐edge razors, different shaving techniques, shaving frequencies and pre‐ and post‐shaving cosmetic products.