Tinea barbae is also known as barber's itch. It is a localized inflammatory reaction to a dermatophyte occurring in the beard area of the face and neck. Species of Trichophyton are the most common causative organisms.

The lesions may be deep, kerion-like plaques or superficial patches resembling tinea corporis. The deeper, more inflammatory variants are due to infection with zoophilic species of dermatophyte, such as Trichophyton verrucosum or Microsporum canis acquired from animals such as cattle, horses, dogs, and cats. The more superficial forms are caused by anthropophilic species like Trichophyton rubrum. Involved hairs are often loose and easily removed with tweezers. Regional lymphadenopathy can occur if the infection has been long-standing or is superinfected.

Tinea barbae is more common in warm and humid climates. It has decreased in incidence since the advent of disposable razors. Permanent scarring and alopecia are possible sequelae.

Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype type VII (TMVII) is an emerging strain that is typically spread through close contact, including sexual intercourse. It may lead to tinea of the genital, buttock, and/or beard area as well as tinea corporis.