Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

What is another name for pseudofolliculitis barbae, a common condition related to shaving?

1. Razor bumps

2. Shaving rash

3. Ingrown hairs

4. Folliculitis

The correct answer is: Razor bumps

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is commonly referred to as "razor bumps." This condition occurs when hair that has been shaved grows back into the skin, leading to inflammation, redness, and small, raised bumps. It is particularly prevalent in individuals with curly hair, as the hair often curls back into the skin after being cut. The term "razor bumps" aptly describes the appearance of the skin and the connection to shaving practices. While "shaving rash" might seem related, it typically refers to irritation caused by shaving rather than the specific ingrown hair phenomenon. "Ingrown hairs" describes a broader category of hair issues but doesn’t specifically capture the inflammation and bump appearance associated with pseudofolliculitis barbae. "Folliculitis" is a general term for inflammation of hair follicles, which may not necessarily involve the specific characteristics of pseudofolliculitis barbae that arise from shaving methods. Thus, recognizing razor bumps as the synonym for this condition highlights the role of shaving in its occurrence.