Sycosis Barbae (Barber's Itch)

Sycosis barbae (barber's itch) is staphylococcal folliculitis of bearded/mustache area, presenting with follicular pustules/crusting/ingrown hairs, recurrent. Treatment: topical antistaphylococcal antibiotics (mupirocin/fusidic acid); oral antibiotics (dicloxacillin/cephalexin/clindamycin) for extensive; warm compresses; hygiene; avoid close shaving/razors; wash razors; treat nasal staph carriage (mupirocin); follow-up dermatology; distinguish from pseudofolliculitis barbae/tinea barbae/herpetic sycosis.

Common Symptoms

Follicular pustules/crusting; beard/mustache area; staph

Causes and Pathogenesis

Staph aureus infection of beard follicles causes sycosis barbae.

Treatment

Topical/oral antistaph antibiotics; warm compresses; hygiene; avoid close shaving

Preventive Measures

Hygiene; clean razors; avoid sharing razors.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.