Shaving is painful

For several years I have had a skin condition that basically amounts to having a severe problem with ingrown hairs, mostly on my chin and neck.  I work for the Fire Dept. and as a job requirement I have to be clean shaven. I went to a Dermatologist years ago and was told all I could do is scrub daily and use a product called benzashave.  The shaving cream did nothing but dry my skin out worse and scrubbing has a limited affect.  I end up with ugly scabs and red spots everywhere.  In the last couple months shaving has become increasingly painful and it is impossible to shave without injuring myself.  After shaving my chin and neck burn for what seem like hours.  I am really getting tired of my face hurting all the time.  Any suggestions as to what I can try, or better yet do you know of any possible treatment that works.  I'm sorry but I don't remember the official name that the Derm. gave my condition.  I am not sure he knew exactly what it is anyway.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

David:

The name of your condition is pseudofolliculitis barbae.  The cure is not to shave.  Obviouwsly, for some people, growing a beard is not an option.  Nowadays there is an alternative: laser hair thinning or removal.  Even if this simple and safe procedure doesn't eliminate your hair altogether -- and i assume you wouldn't want it to anyway -- it can thin it out so you won't have to shave as often, and the thinner hairs will irritate les anyway.

Success generally takes 3-5 treatments given at 4-6 week intervals.  Insurance usually does not cover this, even with a medical diagnosis.  Cost is in the $2-300 range (per treatment), though it may be less in your area.

Given your predicament, you may want to check this out with a local dermatologist.  There are several good lasers available.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff