Sycosis is an inflammation of hair follicles, commonly found in men’s beard and mustache areas. Symptoms include rashes and pus-filled bumps, which can cause hair loss. It is usually caused by bacteria and treated with antibiotics. Preventative measures include proper hygiene and shaving techniques.
Sycosis is an inflammation of the hair follicles. The condition often affects areas where the mustache and beard grow, although sycosis can sometimes occur around the scalp. Symptoms include the appearance of rashes and pus-filled bumps. The disorder is more common in men and is usually treated with antibiotics.
Typically, sycosis begins with small, reddish-colored rashes that appear around the hair follicles. Men may also experience irritation in the affected region. The condition usually progresses gradually and the rashes may look like they are clustered together. Pustules, which are basically pus-filled pimples, can develop, and the area can become crusty.
The condition can cause hair follicles to weaken. The duration of the flare-up varies, and the problem may return after a few months. A severe form of sycosis can cause scarring and considerable damage to the follicles which can lead to hair loss.
Sycosis barbae, or barber’s itch as it’s commonly called, is usually seen on the upper lip, chin, and around the jawline. It is usually caused by the staphylococcus bacterium. The infection could come from bacteria residing inside a person’s nose or from an unhygienic shaving device. Often, the bacteria that trigger inflammation in hair follicles is spread through shaving.
Some people with curly hair have a tendency to develop redness and rashes in the beard area. Although the symptoms appear similar to those seen in sycosis barbae, the inflammation could be due to an ingrown hair. This usually happens when the hair on the shaved side grows back into the skin and causes irritation. Suggested preventative measures for this problem include shaving in the direction of beard growth and shaving not very close to the skin.
Generally, a doctor can diagnose sycosis by the distribution, location, and type of rashes and the extent of inflammation. The most prescribed treatment is the topical application of an antibiotic cream that targets bacterial skin conditions. Additionally, a course of oral antibiotics may be prescribed. In some cases, a cortisone-based preparation may be recommended. Warm salt water compresses can be used to relieve pus-filled rashes.
People with this condition are advised to avoid further irritation to inflamed areas of skin. Several precautions can help prevent a recurrence. These include keeping your shaving devices thoroughly clean and germ-free and washing the shaved area properly.
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