The barbershop has always been a safe haven for men. But it’s also a nasty undercover germ factory.
1. Folliculitis
“Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicle caused primarily by a bacterial infection,” says Anthony M. Rossi, MD, dermatologist at Dermatologic, Mohs, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery. “It looks like little white (pus-filled) pustules.”
It is usually caused by staph bacteria, which can be transmitted through combs, scissors, or razors.
2. Barber’s itch
If you’ve ever seen your hairdresser dip a comb or razor in a liquid solution, that’s a good sign that they are properly sterilizing their tools. If they don’t, you can get the “barber’s itch.”
“Barber itch is a form of folliculitis that develops in the beard area or scalp after it is infected with an unsterilized instrument,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a dermatologist at Mount Sinai Hospital. “The bacteria invade the hair follicles, causing red bumps and pimples of pus that can cause itching.”
In mild cases, the barber’s itch can be effectively treated with a topical antibiotic; in more severe cases, it may require oral antibiotic treatment.
3. Tinea capitis
“Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp that can take the form of ringworm or may appear to be a red, scaly itchy patch,” says Rossi. In the barbershop, it can be spread through towels or combs with poor hygiene and, in severe cases, can cause permanent scarring and hair loss.
Tinea capitis often needs to be treated with an oral antifungal medication. The fungus penetrates deep into the hair follicles, so it can be difficult to deal with just topics, Zeichner says.
4. Impetigo
Impetigo is a bacterial infection caused mainly by staphylococci or streptococcal bacteria. Although it is more common among children, it can be acquired at any age, and is generally spread through skin-to-skin contact, clothing or towels (something to keep in mind if you wash your hair at the barbershop).
“Patients develop yellow or honey-colored scabs (on the skin). It is important to treat them because it is very contagious,” says Dr. Zeichner. Fortunately, it can be easily treated with a topical antibiotic ointment.
5. Lice
While it is quite rare for lice to be acquired from regular washing and cutting, it is also not unheard of. It is possible to purchase lice from a comb or other item shared with someone who has lice. It is common on the scalp, but can also occur on the beard.
“The most common symptom is significant itching in the affected area. In addition to adult louse, it is common to find nits, which are eggs in the hair as well,” says Dr. Zeichner.
There are a variety of ways to treat lice, the most common being to apply a topical lice medication to your hair to kill them. You may also need to remove nits from your hair individually.
6. Tetanus
When you think of tetanus, you probably think of stepping on a rusty clamp. But the same can happen if you are treated with rusty barber tools.
“Tetanus is a bacterial infection that usually occurs after a cut on the skin. It can come from bacteria in the soil, but it can also be acquired from dirty, rusty instruments,” says Dr. Rossi.
7. Herpes
Interested in trying hair removal? If you intend to use wax, this may be something to be careful of. “There have been incidents of transmission of herpes or bacterial infections by waxing. Make sure the sticks of any applicator are not being submerged in the epilator or rolled wax that has been used with another person is used,” says Dr. Rossi.