Folliculitis
Diseases
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about folliculitis.
What is folliculitis?
- Folliculitis, also known as inflammation of the hair follicles, shaving rash, or hot tub rash, is a common and usually benign skin condition in which the hair follicles become infected or inflamed. This leads to the appearance of pimples on areas of the skin covered with hair. While the condition is not life-threatening, it can be challenging for people with weakened immune systems and may develop into more serious conditions in some cases. It usually appears due to infection or irritation of the hair follicles and may resemble acne. It can be itchy or uncomfortable, and often has a social or psychological impact due to its appearance. It can result from daily activities such as shaving, bathing in hot tubs, excessive sweating from exercise, or working outdoors.
- What are the types of folliculitis?
- Bacterial folliculitis (caused by Staphylococcus): Appears as red or white pimples. Usually clears up in a few days, but severe cases need medical attention.
- Hot tub folliculitis (caused by Pseudomonas bacteria): Typically disappears within a few days, but some cases may need treatment.
- Malassezia folliculitis (fungal): Causes itching and acne-like bumps that increase with sweating. Anti-dandruff shampoo can help.
- Post-shaving folliculitis: Caused by ingrown hairs, especially in people with curly hair. Avoiding shaving or using scissors can help.
- Bacterial folliculitis due to long-term antibiotic use: Requires treatment by a dermatologist.
Boils: Painful ,and may cause scarring, and often need medical treatment.
- Eosinophilic folliculitis: Common in children or people with weakened immune systems. It may go away on its own ,but can return.
What are the symptoms of folliculitis?
In most cases, folliculitis causes clusters of red bumps that resemble pimples, some of which may have white heads or pus. They may release fluid or become crusty. It can cause rash, itching, and discomfort. Many people feel the urge to scratch, but it is best to avoid this to prevent opening the bumps and worsening the infection.
What are the causes of folliculitis?
Folliculitis often occurs due to infection of the hair follicles, either superficial or deep. It can result from unclean shaving tools or contaminated water in public pools and hot tubs. Long-term antibiotic use may also contribute to the condition. In some cases, it may be caused by fungi or viruses, and sometimes it is not contagious.
How is folliculitis diagnosed?
The doctor will take the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional tests may be ordered if needed, such as:
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation
Skin biopsy
How is folliculitis treated?
In most cases, no specific treatment is needed, and the condition heals on its own. Antibacterial products and anti-itch creams may help. In more serious cases, antibiotics, antifungal, or antiparasitic treatments may be used. It is important to keep the area clean, apply warm compresses several times a day for 15 minutes, and avoid shaving or scratching the area to prevent irritation or spreading of the infection.
How can folliculitis be prevented?
You can often prevent folliculitis by making changes to your daily habits. Since the condition usually involves bacteria or fungi entering hair follicles, consider the following:
Keep your skin clean.
Reduce shaving.
Check chemical levels in hot tubs and pools before use. The hotter the water, the faster the chemicals break down, making them less effective.
Shower and remove swimwear after leaving a hot tub or pool.
Wear breathable clothing to prevent sweat from building up between the skin and clothing.
What are the complications of folliculitis?
In some cases, it can develop into more serious skin conditions such as cellulitis or abscesses.
- When should you see a doctor?
- Usually, folliculitis goes away with basic self-care at home. However, see a doctor if you have:
- Painful, deep bumps
- Pus
- Fever
Chills
A rash that disappears ,then returns or worsens
Frequently asked questions
What does folliculitis look like?
It usually appears as a sudden acne-like outbreak. Each bump may have a red ring around it, which is a sign of infection.
