Barber's Itch
Barber's Itch Causes
Barber's itch results from damage of hair follicles, which may be caused by: repetitive friction from shaving or wearing tight clothes; excessive perspiration; inflammatory skin diseases; recent injuries to the skin; as well as exposure to coat, pitch, tar, or creosote, as in the case of mechanics, roofers, and oil workers.
Barber's Itch Definition
Barber's itch is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of small, white-headed pimples around one or more hair follicles, usually as a result of infections. Barber's itch is known medically as folliculitis.
Barber's Itch Diagnosis
Barber's itch may be easily diagnosed by looking at the affected individual's skin. If the infected area is resistant to treatment, a physician may analyze skin culture to check for bacteria.
Barber's Itch Symptoms and Signs
The symptoms of barber's itch vary according to the type of infection. If affecting the upper part of the hair follicle (i.e. superficial folliculitis), the condition manifests with: itchiness or tenderness in the affected area; clusters of tiny reddish bumps around the hair follicles; and blisters filled with pus that break open and crust over. In barber's itch affects the deeper layers of the skin surrounding the hair follicle or the entire hair follicle itself, it presents with the following signs: the appearance of enlarged or swollen bumps in the affected area; intense pain; pus-filled blisters; and possible scarring when the infection resolves.
Barber's Itch Treatment
Barber's itch typically disappears without treatment within 2-3 days. In such cases, anti-itch creams are usually applied on the affected areas. However, if the condition persists or recurs, topical creams, antibiotics, and other medications to treat the infection may be recommended.