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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
shaving and hair follicle irritation
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Dermatology issues, such as: skin rashes, acne, birthmarks, skin infections, rosacea, and general skin care.
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shaving and hair follicle irritation
by shawn57187, Jan 25, 2006 12:00AM
Throughout my teens, I was always fortunate to be clear skinned. However, entering my 20s, my facial hair has begun growing in thicker. Coupled with this increased growth, is what appears to be raised bumps surrounding the hair follicles (sometimes with a hair potruding and sometiimes not). If left alone, they will usually remain the color of the surrounding skin and fade after several weeks.
However, every once in awhile, they will grow to about the size of a pinhead and take on a pink color. Regardless of whether the bump is red or normal skin color, I can usually get quite a bit of solid white material from it when I squeeze them and they never come to a white head.
I've been recently following a regimen where I apply 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel twice daily to my face and use a gentle unmedicated face wash along with skin lotion. It seems to have helped reduce the bumps, but they still persist just underneath the corners of my mouth. I've tried antibiotics, changing razors, and growing a beard but they still persist. Since I've begun my regimen I usually have no more than 5 of these suspect spots on my face.
My question is: Is this something I can have treated or is this part of a normal reaction to shaving one's face? It has never been diagnosed officially, my general practitioner tends to just give out medication without much investigation. Sad as this may seem, I'm not sure I can remember what clear skin looks like and I doubt my clear skinned friends would appreciate me examining their faces.
However, every once in awhile, they will grow to about the size of a pinhead and take on a pink color. Regardless of whether the bump is red or normal skin color, I can usually get quite a bit of solid white material from it when I squeeze them and they never come to a white head.
I've been recently following a regimen where I apply 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel twice daily to my face and use a gentle unmedicated face wash along with skin lotion. It seems to have helped reduce the bumps, but they still persist just underneath the corners of my mouth. I've tried antibiotics, changing razors, and growing a beard but they still persist. Since I've begun my regimen I usually have no more than 5 of these suspect spots on my face.
My question is: Is this something I can have treated or is this part of a normal reaction to shaving one's face? It has never been diagnosed officially, my general practitioner tends to just give out medication without much investigation. Sad as this may seem, I'm not sure I can remember what clear skin looks like and I doubt my clear skinned friends would appreciate me examining their faces.
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Jan 26, 2006 12:00AM
, Jan 26, 2006 12:00AM
It sounds to me like all you are seeing is somewhat prominent follicles. Skin does change in the 20's--pores become larger, skin color and texture become less even, and so forth. Why not see a dermatologist--or even an esthetician--who can confirm that your skin is normal, because I believe it is. If there are ways to even things out a bit, they can suggest some.
Take care.
Dr. Rockoff
Take care.
Dr. Rockoff
One option is the use of depilatory creams or electolysis to curb hair growth but this would destroy the ability for you to grow facial hair.
Ive also heard that using an electric razor reduces the occurance of ingrown hair in some individuals.
Folliculitis is usually caused by bacteria, which sounds much like you described. A similar condition can develop with the fungus mentioned above. Continued facial cleansing as you described should be helpful. Did your doctor try an antifungal previously?
As I mentioned before, there is a theory that if you use a regular razor you cut the hair short and sharp and it might grow at an angle and into surrounding skin. They claim that it occurs less often with electric razors since they do not shave as closely.
thank you.
.janae.