Pseudofolliculitis, often referred to as “razor bumps,” is one of the most common skin conditions affecting veterans especially those required to shave regularly during military service. While it may sound minor, pseudofolliculitis can cause chronic pain, inflammation, scarring, and long-term skin damage that affects daily life, work, and self-confidence.
If you’ve filed a VA disability claim for pseudofolliculitis, you will almost certainly be scheduled for an in-person Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. Understanding what the examiner looks for and how to prepare can significantly influence whether your condition is service-connected and how high your VA rating will be.
Introduction to the VA C&P Exam for Pseudofolliculitis
A C&P exam for pseudofolliculitis is a medical evaluation used by the Department of Veterans Affairs to decide two things:
- whether your condition is related to military service, and
- how severe the condition is for rating purposes.
Because pseudofolliculitis does not have its own diagnostic code, the VA rates it by analogy under the Schedule for Rating Disabilities for skin conditions.
“Skin conditions like pseudofolliculitis are often underestimated, but their long-term impact can be substantial,” explains a VA-accredited medical examiner.
How the VA Rates Pseudofolliculitis?
The VA generally rates pseudofolliculitis under 38 CFR § 4.118, most often by analogy to dermatitis or eczema.
| Rating | Key Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Minimal symptoms, no significant treatment |
| 10% | Intermittent symptoms, limited skin involvement |
| 30% | Moderate symptoms affecting exposed areas or requiring ongoing treatment |
| 60% | Severe symptoms, large areas affected, or systemic therapy |
Ratings depend on:
- Percentage of exposed skin affected (face, neck)
- Frequency and severity of flare-ups
- Type and duration of treatment
- Presence of scarring or disfigurement
Purpose of the C&P Exam for Pseudofolliculitis
The exam focuses on three core issues.
Medical Diagnosis Confirmation
The examiner confirms whether you currently have pseudofolliculitis and documents visible signs such as bumps, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, or scarring.
Nexus for Service Connection
The examiner provides a medical opinion on whether your condition began during service or was aggravated by required shaving or grooming standards.
Severity and Functional Impact
The examiner evaluates how often symptoms occur, how severe they are, and how they affect work, daily routines, and social interactions.
“Severity and exposure area are the biggest drivers of the final rating,” notes a VA disability consultant.
What to Expect During Your Pseudofolliculitis C&P Exam?
Review of Medical History
The examiner reviews:
- Service treatment records
- VA and private dermatology notes
- Prior diagnoses and prescriptions
Discussion of Symptoms
You will be asked when symptoms started, how often flare-ups occur, and whether shaving or grooming triggers worsening symptoms.
Physical Examination
The examiner visually inspects affected areas, commonly:
- Face
- Neck
- Scalp
They document:
- Size and location of lesions
- Presence of scarring or discoloration
- Signs of infection or tissue damage
A dermatoscope may be used to confirm ingrown hairs.
Diagnostic Testing (If Needed)
In rare cases, the examiner may order a biopsy or culture. Most diagnoses are made clinically.
Completion of the Skin Diseases DBQ
All findings are recorded on the Skin Diseases Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), which becomes key evidence in your VA claim.
Common Questions Asked During the Exam
Diagnosis and History
- When did symptoms first appear?
- Were symptoms present during active duty?
Symptoms and Severity
- How often do flare-ups occur?
- Do symptoms include pain, itching, or scarring?
Treatment History
- What treatments have you tried?
- Have you used topical or systemic medications?
Functional Impact
- Does the condition affect work or grooming?
- Have you altered shaving habits?
Scarring and Disfigurement
- Are scars painful or disfiguring?
- Do scars affect exposed areas?
“Specific examples matter more than general descriptions,” advises a former C&P examiner.
How to Prepare for Your VA Pseudofolliculitis C&P Exam?
Gather Medical Records
Bring copies of:
- Dermatology visits
- Prescription records
- Past diagnoses
Track Symptoms in Advance
Keep a symptom diary noting:
- Frequency of flare-ups
- Triggers (shaving, sweating)
- Pain or irritation levels
Document Functional Limitations
Prepare examples of:
- Missed work or grooming restrictions
- Social discomfort or embarrassment
- Sleep disruption due to irritation
Review the Skin Diseases DBQ
Knowing what the examiner must document helps you give clear, relevant answers.
Upload Photos as Evidence
Take clear, dated photos during flare-ups and upload them to VA.gov.
“Photos taken during active flare-ups can strongly support higher ratings,” says a veterans service officer.
Common Mistakes Veterans Make
- Attending the exam during a mild phase
- Minimizing symptoms
- Forgetting to mention scarring
- Not explaining work or social impact
If it’s not documented, it may not count.
Why the Pseudofolliculitis C&P Exam Matters?
Because pseudofolliculitis is rated by analogy, examiner documentation plays a major role in determining your rating. The exam often outweighs written records, especially when flare-ups vary in severity.
Proper preparation ensures your condition is accurately represented and fairly rated.
FAQs
Is pseudofolliculitis a valid VA disability?
Yes, it is commonly service-connected.
Does it have its own diagnostic code?
No, it is rated by analogy under skin condition criteria.
Can scarring increase my rating?
Yes, especially on exposed areas.
Should I attend the exam during a flare-up?
Yes, if possible.
Can photos be submitted as evidence?
Yes, and they are highly recommended.
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