Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN), also known as ‘Acne Keloidalis’ or ‘Folliculitis Keloidalis’, is common among black men aged 13 to 25. Often confused with razor bumps, keloids or ingrown hairs, it is none of those things. It is generally an inherited condition.
This disease almost exclusively develops on the back of the head, presenting as bumps and scars on the skin that can be irritated during shaving. The condition affects primarily black men due to the tightly coiled nature of the hair follicle. It can cause hair loss because of the scarring, and symptoms often include pain, irritation and itchiness. Hair in the affected areas often breaks of or becomes ingrown. In more severe cases, permanent hair loss results from the inflammation, as does abscesses, and oozing puss and blood.
There are several treatment options available. Dr. Umar has wide experience treating this condition.