Treatment of pseudofolliculitis barbae with topical glycolic acid: a report of two studies

Abstract

Pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps) is a foreign-body inflammatory reaction surrounding ingrown facial hair, which results from shaving. The problem occurs in persons with curly hair, with an incidence of over 50 percent in black men. The objective of the two studies described was to assess the effectiveness of topical glycolic acid in the treatment and prevention of razor bumps. The studies consisted of two placebo-controlled trials in thirty-five adult men. The results showed that glycolic acid lotion was significantly more effective than placebo in treating pseudofolliculitis barbae. There was over a 60 percent reduction in lesions on the treated side, which allowed daily shaving with little irritation. Topical application of glycolic acid lotion is an effective therapy for pseudofolliculitis barbae and allows the patient to resume a daily shaving regimen.