Key Takeaways
- Pseudofolliculitis is a common condition caused by ingrown hairs after shaving.
- It is not an infection and does not pose a risk to your overall health.
- Preventative measures include shaving along the direction of hair growth, shaving with a sharp blade, and using soothing emollients after shaving.
- Alternatives such as electric clippers or depilation can provide more long-lasting relief.
- Seek specialist care if bumps become painful, persist, or leave behind dark marks and scarring.
Shaving is quick, convenient, and a part of most people’s personal grooming routine. But it can bring on an undesirable side effect: itchy, painful bumps, or breakouts. While most dismiss these as just irritation, in most instances, the true cause is often a condition called pseudofolliculitis pubis.
At his Harley Street clinic, London, Dr. George Kravvas, Consultant Dermatologist, daily sees patients who are worried about recurring razor bumps in the beard or groin. Fortunately, the problem is benign and curable. With proper care and prevention, you can avoid long-term complications.
What is Pseudofolliculitis?
Pseudofolliculitis is the name given to ingrown hairs, or razor bumps. New cut hair can bend back into the skin when it nicks the hair rather than growing away from the body when shaving. It leads to inflammation that may cause red or dark bumps that are similar to acne or folliculitis.
When this happens in the pubic or groin region, it is referred to as pseudofolliculitis pubis.
- It is not infectious, though bacteria may complicate it.
- It is not sexually transmitted or contagious.
- It occurs more often in curly or wiry-haired individuals, whose hair naturally curves back against the skin.
Learn more about Male Genital Skin Disease Treatment
Symptoms of Pubic Razor Bumps
Typical signs include:
- Small, dark brown, or red bumps on the groin or pubic region
- Shaving tenderness or itchiness
- Hyperpigmentation or scarring upon repeated recurrence
- Infrequently, pus-containing spots may occur if secondary infection occurs
Because pseudofolliculitis pubis may be mimicked by infection, professional evaluation is appropriate if you are in doubt.
Read more on Penis Infection Treatment in Harley Street
Why It Happens in the Pubic Area
Shaving the groin increases the risk of pseudofolliculitis because:
- Pubic hair is usually coarse and curly, and therefore more likely to curl back into the skin
- The skin of the pubic area is thin and sensitive, and more likely to react to trauma from shaving
- Friction and irritation from tight clothing
- The area is warm and humid, which can increase inflammation and allow for bacterial overgrowth
Prevention Tips: How to Shave Without Razor Bumps
If you would rather leave the area hairless, changing your shaving technique can significantly reduce the risk of pseudofolliculitis pubis.
Before shaving
- Trim long hair with scissors or clippers before shaving with a razor
- Wash the area with warm water and a gentle cleanser to soften hair
- Apply a lubricating gel or shaving cream designed for sensitive skin
During shaving
- Always use a clean, sharp blade
- Shave in the direction of hair growth, never against the grain
- Avoid pulling the skin taut, which pushes hairs back into the skin
- Rinse the blade after every few strokes
After shaving
- Apply a calming emollient or aloe vera gel
- Consider a 10-minute warm compress to minimize inflammation
- Avoid perfumed products that sting or irritate the skin
- Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear for the first 24 hours to minimise friction
You may also want to read this blog on Sun Protection Tips
Alternatives to Shaving
For those who experience recurring razor bumps despite excellent technique, shaving alternatives may be a better option.
- Electric trimmers: Shave hair on the surface of the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.
- Laser hair removal: A long-term solution that reduces hair growth.
- Depilatory creams: Can dissolve hair but may irritate sensitive groin skin. Always patch-test first.
- Waxing: Removes hair from the root but can also trigger ingrown hairs, so it is not always a safer alternative.
When to See a Dermatologist
Medical care is required if:
- Bumps hurt, become swollen, or pus-filled
- Symptoms persist for a few weeks despite proper shaving habits
- You see scarring or permanent dark spots on your skin
- You are concerned about distinguishing bumps from a possible infection
Dermatologist-led treatments may include:
- Topical antibiotics or anti-inflammatory cream to soothe flare-ups
- Benzoyl peroxide cleansers or topical retinoids to prevent ingrown hairs and bacterial load
- Oral antibiotics in cases of secondary infection
- Laser hair removal for permanent management
Book a Virtual Dermatology Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
What are pubic razor bumps also called?
The medical term is pseudofolliculitis pubis. They are caused by shaving-induced ingrown hairs.
How do I quickly remove razor bumps in the groin?
Apply a warm compress, calming moisturisers, and do not shave again until the skin has healed. Repeated bumps may need prescription creams.
Is pseudofolliculitis pubis permanent?
The bumps themselves are temporary, though repeated occurrences may be followed by scarring or permanent hyperpigmentation.
Is pseudofolliculitis pubis a sexually transmitted disease?
No. It is a shaving reaction of the skin and is non-contagious, although it can mimic some infections.
Final Word from Harley Street
Razor bumps in the pubic region can be painful and embarrassing, but are not necessarily permanent. With correct shaving technique, preventative measures, and specialist dermatology advice, pseudofolliculitis pubis can be successfully treated.
Discreet, professional male genital and pubic skin conditions treatment is provided by Dr. George Kravvas, Consultant Dermatologist in Harley Street, London, in person or by private virtual consultation.
Schedule your personal consultation today and get answers and solutions tailored to your complexion.
