Barber's Itch Apr 2026

"Barber's itch" (Tinea barbae) is a fungal infection of the hair follicles in the beard and mustache area, often caused by dermatophytes (fungi). It is often confused with bacterial folliculitis, but the former is fungal while the latter is bacterial, often due to staph (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria, sometimes called sycosis barbae.

Temporary hair loss, or in severe cases, deep, boggy, crusty patches known as a kerion. barber's itch

Red, ring-shaped, or scaly lesions, frequently with pus-filled pimples around the hair follicles. "Barber's itch" (Tinea barbae) is a fungal infection

Intense itching, soreness, or pain in the beard/mustache area. or in severe cases

Cases range from mild inflammation to severe, deep infection causing scar tissue. Causes and Transmission Tinea Barbae (Barber's Itch) - Dermatology - Merck Manuals