Sycosis vulgaris is a cutaneous condition characterized by a chronic infection of the chin or bearded region.[1]: 252 [2] The irritation is caused by a deep infection of hair follicles, often by species of Staphylococcus or Propionibacterium bacteria.[3] Asymptomatic or painful and tender erythematous papules and pustules may form around coarse hair in the beard (sycosis barbae) or the back of the neck (sycosis nuchae).[citation needed]