That pesky condition known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, or PFB, is basically just razor bumps, caused by the hair already shaved as it grows back in.
How do you pronounce pseudofolliculitis barbae?
Pronunciation: SOO-doh-fuh-LIK-yoo-LY-tis BAR-bee
For people with naturally curly or kinky hair, this condition can be problematic. For men, daily shaving can be painful and have a negative impact on appearance. For men in the military, it can be especially difficult.
Because curly hair changes direction and grows back into the skin instead of straight out the follicle, it can lead to an inflammatory reaction. PFB can make the skin look itchy and red, and in some cases, it can even look like pimples. The follicles can become inflamed and pustules can form especially if the area becomes infected.
Donovan’s before photo from 2011; Watch the video to see what he looks like now.
What are the treatments for PFB?
- Let the hair grow. If shaving is causing the problem, the simplest solution is to stop shaving.
- Glycolic-acid peels can help; some studies have shown that the glycolic acid changes the hair so that it grows out straight.
- Hair removal technology including the LP System, which destroys the follicle permanently at the root and cures PFB forever.
Front view of Donovan’s chin and neck before LP System permanent hair removal. Watch the video above to see the “after” results.