Folliculitis
Superficial Folliculitis affects the upper part of the hair follicle and can cause clusters of red bumps, pus-filled blisters, red and/or inflamed skin, as well as itchiness or tenderness.
Deep Folliculitis is a more serious type of folliculitis that starts deeper in the skin surrounding the hair follicle and thus can infect the whole hair follicle. Deep folliculitis can manifest as a large swollen bump and pus-filled blisters and can cause pain and possible scarring once the infection has disappeared.
If you're dealing with the discomfort of folliculitis, our trusted Dermatology Affiliates providers offer specialized care, providing effective solutions to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence. Schedule an appointment at Dermatology Affiliates for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized folliculitis management to promote healthy skin.
Examples of Folliculitis
What are the Symptoms of Folliculitis?
- Itchy and or painful bumps in and around your hair follicles.
- Clusters of red bumps, pus-filled blisters, red and/or inflamed skin.
- Itchiness or tenderness.
- Possible scarring once the infection has disappeared.
- Folliculitis occurs in damaged follicles, and while you have the greatest number of follicles on your head, the condition can occur virtually anywhere.
Causes of Folliculitis
- Shaving.
- Tight clothing friction.
- Excessive sweating.
- Skin inflammation from conditions.
- Skin injuries.
- Non-breathable materials like adhesive tape on the skin.
- Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
How to Prevent Folliculitis
Here are key recommendations:
- Gentle Shaving Techniques: We advise using a sharp, clean razor and incorporating gentle shaving techniques to minimize irritation. Shaving in the direction of hair growth and avoiding excessive pressure can reduce the risk of folliculitis.
- Maintaining Skin Hygiene: Regular cleansing with mild, fragrance-free soap helps to keep the skin clean and free from potential irritants that can contribute to folliculitis.
- Avoiding Tight Clothing: Our team of skin experts recommends wearing loose, breathable clothing to reduce friction and allow the skin to breathe, minimizing the risk of folliculitis associated with tight clothing.
- Proper Wound Care: Prompt and proper care of any skin injuries, cuts, or wounds is crucial to prevent bacterial entry and subsequent folliculitis.
- Hydration and Moisturization: Keeping the skin well-hydrated and moisturized is essential. Our providers can recommend suitable moisturizers to maintain the skin barrier.
Folliculitis FAQs
Your dermatologist can diagnose folliculitis by examining the affected area. Sometimes, they may perform a culture or other tests to identify the specific microorganism causing the issue.
Folliculitis itself is usually not contagious, but the microorganisms responsible can be transmitted through direct contact. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding the sharing of personal items can help prevent the spread of infection.
Yes, specific activities or jobs that involve extended exposure to hot and humid conditions, friction, or contact with contaminated surfaces can elevate the risk of developing folliculitis. Athletes, frequent shavers, and individuals in certain occupations may be more prone to this condition.
Yes, folliculitis can develop on any area of the body that has hair follicles. Commonly affected regions include the face, neck, chest, back, buttocks, and thighs. The location and severity of folliculitis can differ from person to person, depending on factors like skin type, hair texture, and exposure to irritants.
Moisturizers can help manage folliculitis, especially if dry or irritated skin is a contributing factor. Using a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer can maintain skin hydration, reduce irritation, and support the skin's barrier function, potentially easing symptoms. However, moisturizers may not treat the underlying cause, particularly if folliculitis is due to a bacterial or fungal infection, in which case specific treatments prescribed by a dermatologist are necessary. Opt for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic products to minimize further irritation, and consult with a dermatologist for a tailored treatment plan.
From our QualDerm Family of Brands: Skin Moisturizing Tips
Folliculitis Treatment
Common treatment modalities include:
- Topical Antibiotics or Antifungals: For mild cases, our providers may prescribe topical antibiotics or antifungal creams to address bacterial or fungal infections causing folliculitis.
- Oral Medications: In more severe or recurrent cases, oral antibiotics or antifungal medications may be recommended to target the infection from within.
- Corticosteroids: Topical or oral corticosteroids can alleviate inflammation and reduce redness and itching associated with folliculitis.
- Laser Therapy: Dermatologists may utilize laser therapy to target and destroy hair follicles affected by chronic or recurrent folliculitis.
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