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Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (Razor Bumps)
Pseudofolliculitis barbae, also known as "razor bumps" or ingrown hairs, is a common problem faced by many men. Stiff hair tips either penetrate the skin before leaving the follicle opening, or leave the follicle and curve, reentering nearby skin. This causes small bumps that are more a foreign-body reaction than an infection. This condition has been treated with various aftershave lotions used to minimize inflammation and enhance dead skin cell removal.
Aftershave lotions are used on the face after the wet or dry removal of facial hair with a razor and are rather simplistic, as they contain only a few key ingredients. Allantoin is used to stimulate tissue formation and speed wound healing. Menthol is universally used to produce a cooling effect in the lotion, whereas capsicum is sometimes used to give a sting. An anesthetic, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, is sometimes added to reduce irritation and the minor pain of "razor bumps" as well.
Central Drugs recommends the following formulation for Pseudofolliculitis Barbae:
Allatoin 0.1%/ Menthol 0.3%/ Benzocaine 0.5% Aftershave Lotion |
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