New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the common name for pseudofolliculitis?

1. In-grown hairs

2. Razor bumps

3. Acne scars

4. Skin irritation

The correct answer is: Razor bumps

Pseudofolliculitis is most commonly known as razor bumps. This condition occurs when hair curls back into the skin after shaving, causing inflammation and irritation. It typically appears as small, red, inflamed bumps on the skin, often after shaving areas like the neck or face. Razor bumps are particularly prevalent among individuals with curly or coarse hair, and they can be mistaken for acne or other skin irritations due to their appearance. The term highlights the association with shaving, which is the primary cause of this skin condition, making it a widely recognized expression for this issue. The other options refer to related but distinct concepts: ingrown hairs can occur as a result of the same process but do not encompass the broader inflammatory aspect associated with razor bumps; acne scars refer specifically to the aftermath of acne lesions and their healing process; and skin irritation could relate to various factors such as allergies or reactions but does not specifically denote the condition of pseudofolliculitis.