Folliculitis. Treatment, Types, Causes

You must have heard about folliculitis. But what does folliculitis really mean? Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles that often leads to painful pimples, such as boils or pustules. Folliculitis can be caused by a bacterial infection, such as staphylococcus aureus, but also by fungi or viruses. Folliculitis often occurs after epilation, when the hairs left under the skin become infected.

In this article you will discover all the information related to folliculitis, inguinal folliculitis, scalp folliculitis, leg folliculitis. For example, we will analyze the causes that can be the basis of this condition, from minor trauma to the hair follicle to skin diseases such as acne, atopic dermatitis or eczema. This article will cover the entire spectrum of folliculitis: types, causes and risk factors, symptoms and methods of diagnosis. We will also discuss effective treatments, such as antibiotic or salicylic acid creams , as well as advice on prevention and potential complications.

What Is Folliculitis?

Definition and symptoms

Folliculitis is a common skin condition in which some hair follicles become inflamed, often due to a bacterial infection. Folliculitis can cause small swellings, pus-filled blisters, itching and pain. Mild cases of folliculitis may heal on their own, but more severe or recurring cases may require prescription treatment to prevent complications such as permanent scarring or hair loss. If you think about how to get rid of folliculitis quickly, this depends a lot on the type of folliculitis, the severity of the situation, but also the area where the folliculitis appeared.

Most people face folliculitis in the following areas:

• Inguinal folliculitis

Inguinal or genital folliculitis is a skin condition that affects the hair follicles in the groin, pubic or genital area. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including cutting or twisting hair, tight clothing, or excessive perspiration in the groin area. Symptoms may include itching, burning, redness, and the appearance of small pustules or pimples around the affected hairs. A treatment for inguinal folliculitis may involve using inguinal folliculitis cream, antibacterial or anti-inflammatory lotions, and avoiding factors that may aggravate the condition.

• Folliculitis of the scalp

Scalp folliculitis is a skin condition that affects the hair follicles on the scalp. This can be caused by bacteria, fungi or other irritants that infect the hair follicles. Symptoms may include itching, tenderness, redness, and the appearance of pustules or pimples on the scalp. Often, scalp folliculitis can be associated with dandruff or other scalp problems. Treatment may involve using medicated shampoos or other anti-fungal or anti-bacterial products to clean and treat the affected scalp.

• Folliculitis legs

Folliculitis of the legs is a skin condition that affects the hair follicles on the legs and adjacent areas such as the thighs or buttocks. This can be caused by cutting or twisting hair, tight clothing or excessive sweating in these areas. Symptoms may include itching, burning, redness, and the appearance of small pustules or pimples around the affected hairs. Treatment may involve the use of antibacterial or anti-inflammatory folliculitis lotions or creams, body scrubs , and avoiding factors that may aggravate the condition.

Types of Folliculitis

There are several types of folliculitis, including:

• Bacterial folliculitis

• Rash from the swimming pool (pseudomonas folliculitis)

• Pimples after shaving (pseudofolliculitis barbae)

• Pityrosporum folliculitis

• Gram-negative folliculitis

• Eosinophilic folliculitis

Folliculitis is a skin condition caused by an infected or inflamed hair follicle, which can resemble acne and cause red bumps, irritation and itching.

Main Types of Folliculitis

1. Staphylococcal folliculitis:

Caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, causing small red or white pimples filled with pus. Bacterial folliculitis is a type of folliculitis characterized by a rash with pus-filled bumps, caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (staphylococcus). These red and painful pimples appear when bacteria enter the hair follicles and cause an infection.

2. Folliculitis pseudomonica ("from the pool"):

It is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which causes an eruption similar to staphylococcal folliculitis. Pool rash, or pseudomonic folliculitis, is a type of folliculitis that causes an itchy round rash due to the Pseudomonas bacteria. This infection is associated with water from swimming pools, hot tubs or lakes.

3. Malassezia folliculitis:

Caused by the Malassezia fungus that penetrates the hair follicles, leading to an acne-like condition, usually on the chest and back. Pityrosporum folliculitis is a type of folliculitis that causes a rash with pus-filled bumps due to an infection with fungi of the genus Pityrosporum. This condition is common in areas of the body often exposed to perspiration, such as the chest or back.

4. Pseudofolliculitis barbae ("pimples after shaving"):

It appears in the beard area when the hairs cut too short return to the skin, causing irritation, being more common in people with curly hair. Pseudofolliculitis barbae, also known as post-shave pimples, is a type of folliculitis caused by ingrown hairs under the skin, not by an infection of the follicles. This frequently occurs in people with curly or thick hair, after shaving or trimming.

5. Gram-negative folliculitis

Gram-negative folliculitis mainly affects the pus-filled swellings around the nostrils and mouth. This form of folliculitis is caused by gram-negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

6. Eosinophilic folliculitis

Eosinophilic folliculitis is characterized by intense itching and the recurrent appearance of spots with swelling and pimples. The name comes from the presence of eosinophil cells in skin lesions.

7. Sycosis barbae

Sycosis barbae is a type of folliculitis that affects people who shave frequently. This causes painful swelling, itching and scabs in the beard area.

Sometimes, folliculitis can be similar to acne and that's why a dermatological control is necessary, in order to receive a specialized treatment.

Folliculitis. Causes and risk factors

Folliculitis can be caused by a wide range of factors, including bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic infections, as well as physical damage to the hair follicles. The most common cause is infection with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (staphylococcus).

Folliculitis case

Infections:

• Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus

• Viruses

• Mushrooms

• parasite

Physical damage to hair follicles:

• Tight clothing that blocks sweat

• Frequent scraping

• Waxing or hair pulling

• Certain hairdressing practices

Medicines and medical conditions:

• Prolonged use of corticosteroid creams

• Treatment with prednisone or long-term antibiotics

• Chemotherapy

• Diabetes mellitus

• HIV/AIDS

• Other diseases that weaken the immune system

Folliculitis and risk factors

Therefore, avoiding the risk factors for folliculitis, such as poor hygiene, damage to the follicles and habits that block sweating can significantly reduce the risk of developing folliculitis.

Folliculitis. Symptoms and manifestations

Cutaneous manifestations

Folliculitis is manifested by the following skin symptoms:

1. Cysts or small pimples - They appear grouped around the hair follicles, having the appearance of small swellings or pimples.

2. Pus-filled blisters - These blisters or blisters can break and crust over.

3. Red and inflamed skin - The affected areas show redness and painful swelling.

4. Itching and burning sensation - Folliculitis can cause intense itching and burning sensation in the skin.

5. Boils - Represents hair follicles deeply infected with staphylococcal bacteria, forming painful abscesses.

General symptoms

In addition to skin manifestations, folliculitis can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

1. Fever - In severe cases, fever may appear as the body's response to the infection.

2. Swollen lymph nodes - Nodes near the affected area may become swollen and painful.

3. Fatigue - Severe infections can lead to fatigue and lack of energy.

The severity of symptoms varies depending on the type and severity of folliculitis. Mild cases may present only small cysts or pimples, while severe forms may involve painful boils, fever and altered general condition.

Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any skin or general symptoms that could indicate folliculitis and consult a doctor for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis of Folliculitis

For an optimal diagnosis and treatment of folliculitis, an interdisciplinary approach involving several branches of healthcare is recommended. Family doctors can manage mild cases, but for persistent forms or those that present the risk of scarring, consultation with a dermatologist is indicated.

The role of the family doctor

Family doctors play an essential role in the diagnosis and management of folliculitis. They can:

• Evaluate the patient's symptoms and medical history

• Identify possible causes and risk factors

• Perform physical examinations and initial laboratory tests

• Prescribes appropriate treatments for mild cases

• Monitors the evolution of the condition and the response to treatment

• He recommends consulting a dermatologist in severe or recurring cases

Dermatologist consultation

In persistent, severe cases or with a risk of scarring, consulting a dermatologist is essential. Dermatologists can:

• Perform a complete evaluation of the skin lesions

• Request additional investigations, such as bacterial cultures or biopsies

• Establish a precise diagnosis and identify the underlying cause

• Recommends specific treatments, including topical or oral medications

• Monitors the response to the treatment and adjusts the therapeutic scheme according to the case

• Give advice on preventing the recurrence of folliculitis and complications

Folliculitis Treatment

The treatment of folliculitis varies depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the infection. It is essential to establish the correct diagnosis in order to effectively address the condition.

Bacterial folliculitis treatment:

For mild and superficial cases, gels, folliculitis cream or folliculitis antibiotic cream can be used.

Antibiotic for Folliculitis

For severe or recurrent infections, oral antibiotics such as cephalexin or dicloxacillin can be administered.

Antibiotics for topical folliculitis such as mupirocin or clindamycin are effective in treating staphylococcal folliculitis.

Fungal folliculitis treatment:

Folliculitis cream or topical antifungal shampoos are indicated for infections caused by fungi such as Malassezia.

In persistent cases, oral antifungals such as itraconazole or fluconazole can be administered.

Viral folliculitis treatment:

Treatment for viral folliculitis is similar to that for common viral infections, such as herpes or molluscum contagiosum.

Oral antivirals or procedures such as curettage or cryotherapy can be used.

Treatment of eosinophilic folliculitis:

The first-line treatment for eosinophilic folliculitis is antiretroviral therapy for the underlying HIV/AIDS.

Optionally, topical steroids, antihistamines, phototherapy, itraconazole or isotretinoin can be administered.

Treatment Gram-negative folliculitis:

Oral antibiotics that cover bacteria such as Pseudomonas, such as ciprofloxacin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, are recommended for this type of folliculitis.

Treatment Folliculitis pityrosporum (Malassezia):

Systemic antifungal therapy with itraconazole or fluconazole is the treatment of choice.

Additional Folliculitis Treatment and Home Care

In addition to the medicinal treatment of folliculitis, there are other ways to manage the symptoms and speed up the healing of folliculitis:

Warm moist compresses for folliculitis: Applying warm and moist compresses can help reduce inflammation and purulent drainage.

Baking soda for folliculitis : Baking soda has the ability to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and other impurities that can block hair follicles. By removing these deposits from the surface of the skin, baking soda can prevent clogging of hair follicles and reduce the risk of folliculitis.

Antibacterial soaps for folliculitis : Gently washing the affected areas with antibacterial soaps can prevent the infection from spreading.

Moisturizing and emollient folliculitis cream : Using moisturizing and emollient folliculitis creams can soothe itching and skin irritation.

Avoiding irritants : It is recommended to avoid tight clothes, greasy cosmetic products and shaving in the affected areas.

Improving hygiene : Proper hygiene, including regular washing of clothes and bedding, can prevent the spread of infection.

Minor surgical treatments : In the case of large boils, surgical drainage of the pus may be necessary.

For mild cases of folliculitis, these home care measures may be enough for a cure. However, in severe or persistent cases, it is recommended to consult a doctor to receive the appropriate treatment.

Antibiotic cream for folliculitis

Antibiotic for folliculitis - Effective treatment for folliculitis

Antibiotic cream for folliculitis is one of the main therapeutic options for treating bacterial folliculitis. These topically applied creams contain antibiotics that act directly on the skin infection, eliminating the responsible bacteria.

These antibiotic creams are effective in treating bacterial folliculitis, but they must be used according to the doctor's instructions and until the lesions are completely healed. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is necessary to re-evaluate the treatment by a dermatologist.

Salicylic acid for folliculitis

• The role of salicylic acid in the treatment of folliculitis

Salicylic acid is a key ingredient in the treatment of folliculitis. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) with remarkable exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. It is one of the most popular agents used in skin care products due to its ability to unclog pores and effectively remove dead skin cells and excess sebum. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid helps exfoliate the top layer of skin, thus preventing clogged pores and reducing inflammation.

In the case of folliculitis, where hair follicles become inflamed due to bacteria or other irritants, salicylic acid can be an effective folliculitis treatment. It helps exfoliate the skin and remove the hairs under the skin that can contribute to folliculitis. Preparations with salicylic acid are available in various forms, such as shampoos, gels, serums or sprays.

• Body cream with salicylic acid

When looking for a salicylic acid body cream to treat folliculitis, it's important to keep a few things in mind:

Concentration of Salicylic Acid : In general, the concentration of salicylic acid in body creams varies between 0.5% and 2%. For the treatment of folliculitis, it is recommended to choose a cream with a higher concentration of salicylic acid, preferably between 1% and 2%. This higher concentration may be more effective at reducing inflammation and clearing pores. In this sense, we recommend the body cream with salicylic acid from Q+A, which is perfect for soothing irritated skin.

Texture and Other Ingredients: Opt for a body cream with a non-greasy texture that easily absorbs into the skin. You can also look for products that contain other skin-beneficial ingredients, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can help further exfoliate skin and improve texture.

Test the Product: As each skin reacts differently to products, it is always recommended to test the product on a small part of the skin before using it on the whole body, to avoid possible allergic reactions or irritation.

• Shower gel with salicylic acid

For the shower gel, we offer you the ideal solution that complements the body cream with salicylic acid. Shower gel with salicylic acid from Q+A is the perfect option when you want to exfoliate your skin and reduce irritation and redness. To get the best results in treating folliculitis with a salicylic acid shower gel, follow these steps:

Wet Your Skin: Start by wetting your skin with warm water to prepare your skin for the shower gel application.

Application: Apply an appropriate amount of salicylic acid shower gel to a bath sponge or hands and gently massage into wet skin, focusing on areas affected by folliculitis.

Rinse: Rinse the shower gel thoroughly with warm water to completely remove the product from the skin.

Moisturize: After drying, apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep skin hydrated and prevent excessive dryness.

Frequency: Use the salicylic acid shower gel regularly, preferably twice a day or as recommended on the product packaging.

• Shampoo with salicylic acid for scalp folliculitis

Salicylic acid shampoos are recommended to treat scalp folliculitis.

Salicylic acid helps to remove layers of dead skin and excessive sebaceous matter, allowing the drainage of infected hair follicles.

Regular use of these shampoos can prevent the recurrence of folliculitis on the scalp.

• Salicylic acid serum or spray

Salicylic acid serums and sprays are indicated for body folliculitis.

These topical products work by exfoliating and disinfecting, helping to heal skin lesions.

It is applied directly to the affected areas, such as folliculitis on the legs, after the skin has been cleaned beforehand.

• Combinations of acids

Some topical preparations contain combinations of acids, such as salicylic acid and glycolic acid.

These combinations offer additional benefits, helping to exfoliate the skin and reduce inflammation.

Although salicylic acid is effective in treating folliculitis, it is important to follow the instructions of the doctor or dermatologist regarding the method and duration of use. It is also essential to maintain proper hygiene and avoid irritants that can aggravate the symptoms.

• Precautions in the use of salicylic acid

While salicylic acid is an effective ingredient in treating folliculitis, it is important to consider certain precautions:

• Avoid excessive exposure to the sun : Salicylic acid can increase the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. Apply adequate sun protection when using products with salicylic acid.

• Avoid areas with irritated or damaged skin : Do not apply products with salicylic acid on cracked, irritated skin or with open wounds, as this can cause additional irritation.

• Monitor adverse reactions : Some people may experience adverse reactions, such as stinging, itching or excessive reddening of the skin. In such cases, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

• Avoid excessive use: Follow the instructions on the product label and do not use excessive amounts of salicylic acid, as this can lead to irritation or adverse effects.

• Precaution during pregnancy and breastfeeding : If you are faced with folliculitis during pregnancy, consult your doctor before using products with salicylic acid during pregnancy or breastfeeding, because some studies suggest that it can be absorbed in small amounts in the body.

By observing these precautions and by following the instructions of the doctor or dermatologist, salicylic acid can be an effective and safe treatment for folliculitis, contributing to the healing of skin lesions and preventing the recurrence of folliculitis.

Folliculitis. Prevention

Hygiene measures and skin care

The prevention of folliculitis is mainly based on maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding irritants that can damage the hair follicles. Here are some essential measures:

• Regular skin cleansing : Wash your skin with a mild antibacterial soap and rinse well to remove residues and bacteria.

• Avoiding tight clothes : Wear loose clothes, made of materials that allow the skin to breathe, to prevent irritation and blockage of hair follicles.

• Changing bed linen and towels : Use clean bed linen and towels regularly to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and other pathogens.

• Cleaning exercise equipment : Regularly clean and disinfect exercise equipment, such as weight benches or yoga mats, to eliminate bacteria and sweat.

Correct shaving and epilation techniques

Shaving and waxing can increase the risk of folliculitis if not performed properly. Here are some recommendations:

• Use new and clean razor blades : Worn or dirty blades can promote the spread of bacteria and skin irritation.

• Apply a cooling product or a shaving gel: These products help to soften and lift the hairs, facilitating shaving and reducing the risk of irritation.

• Shave in the direction of hair growth: Shaving in the opposite direction can lead to the return of hairs under the skin, favoring the appearance of folliculitis.

• Avoid shaving already irritated or inflamed areas: Shaving can aggravate existing injuries and spread the infection.

• Use appropriate epilation techniques : If you choose epilation, make sure you use quality depilatory wax or creams and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Avoiding exposure to pathogens

Certain environments can increase the risk of developing folliculitis, through exposure to pathogens such as bacteria or fungi. Here are some recommendations:

• Avoid unhygienic swimming pools and hot tubs: These places can be favorable environments for the development of bacteria and fungi.

• Clean and disinfect saunas regularly : These spaces can promote the spread of pathogens due to heat and humidity.

• Avoid contact with people who have active skin infections : Bacteria and fungi can be transmitted through direct contact.

• Maintain proper hygiene in gyms : Clean and disinfect equipment and surfaces after use to prevent the spread of pathogens.

By observing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing folliculitis and the recurrence of this condition. However, if you notice any suspicious symptoms, always consult a doctor for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Exfoliation for the Prevention of Folliculitis on the Legs

Foot folliculitis treatment

Regular exfoliation of the skin of the legs is an essential measure to prevent folliculitis. This practice helps to remove layers of dead skin and embedded hairs, reducing the risk of infection of the hair follicles.

Removal of dead skin and hair:

Dead skin and hair left under the skin can block the hair follicles, creating a favorable environment for the development of bacteria and the appearance of folliculitis on the legs.

Exfoliation removes these debris, allowing the follicles to breathe and reducing the risk of infection.

Prevention of ingrown hairs under the skin:

Ingrown hairs under the skin can cause irritation and inflammation, and folliculitis on the legs can develop.

Exfoliation helps to remove these hairs before they return under the skin.

Improving the circulation and oxygenation of the skin:

By removing layers of dead skin, exfoliation allows better circulation and oxygenation of the skin.

This creates a less favorable environment for the development of bacteria and fungi and prevents folliculitis on the legs from establishing itself.

Exfoliation methods for feet

There are several exfoliation methods that can be used to prevent folliculitis on the legs:

• Bath brushes:

Using a soft-bristled bath brush can help remove dead skin and hair from your feet.

Apply a light circular motion on the skin, avoiding irritating areas or open wounds.

• Exfoliating gels or creams:

Exfoliating gels or creams contain light abrasive particles that help remove dead skin.

Apply the product to your feet and gently massage with circular movements, then rinse well.

• Pumice:

Pumice is a porous volcanic material that can be used to exfoliate the skin.

Gently rub the skin of the feet with the pumice stone after the shower or bath, when the skin is still wet.

• Professional treatments:

Some beauty salons offer professional treatments to exfoliate the skin of the legs, such as chemical peeling or microdermabrasion.

These treatments can be more effective, but must be performed by qualified professionals.

Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to exfoliate the skin of the legs regularly, but without excessively irritating it. Also, moisturize the skin after exfoliation to prevent excessive drying. By combining exfoliation with other hygiene and prevention measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing folliculitis on the legs.

Folliculitis complications

Although folliculitis is often a minor condition, in some cases serious complications can occur if the infection is not treated properly. Here are some of the most common complications of folliculitis:

Recurrent folliculitis infection:

Folliculitis can come back or spread to other areas of the body if it is not treated completely.

The bacteria left in the hair follicles can cause new outbreaks of infection.

Permanent scarring:

Severe infections caused by folliculitis and untreated can lead to the formation of permanent scars on the skin.

These scars can affect both aesthetically and functionally, affecting mobility in certain areas.

Changes in skin pigmentation:

Folliculitis can cause hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or hypopigmentation (light spots) in the affected areas.

These changes in pigmentation can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the infection.

Permanent hair loss:

In severe cases, the infection can damage the hair follicles, leading to permanent hair loss in the respective areas.

This can have a significant aesthetic impact, especially in the case of scalp folliculitis.

Boils and abscesses:

Staphylococcal folliculitis can progress to the formation of boils (abscesses under the skin) or larger abscesses.

These complications often require surgical drainage and aggressive antibiotic treatment.

Cellulitis or generalized infections:

In cases where personal hygiene is neglected or in people with a weakened immune system, the infection can progress to cellulitis (infection of the subcutaneous tissue) or even generalized infections.

These complications can be life-threatening and require emergency treatment.

To prevent these complications, it is essential to follow the treatment prescribed by the doctor and to carefully monitor the evolution of the symptoms. If you notice the worsening or spread of the infection, seek medical assistance immediately. A prompt and adequate treatment can prevent the occurrence of serious complications of folliculitis.

In conclusion, folliculitis is a fairly common skin condition, which can become complicated if not treated properly. By recognizing the symptoms, consulting the doctor and following an appropriate treatment, folliculitis can be kept under control and cured. Preventive measures such as proper hygiene, avoiding irritants and following the correct shaving or hair removal techniques can significantly reduce the risk of occurrence or recurrence of folliculitis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is folliculitis and what causes it?

Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles, caused by bacteria, fungi, irritants or other factors that infect or irritate the hair follicles.

What are the symptoms of folliculitis?

Symptoms of folliculitis may include itching, redness, swelling, pustules or pimples around the hair shaft, burning sensation and sensitivity to touch.

What are the most common areas of the body affected by folliculitis?

Folliculitis can appear on any part of the body where hair grows, including the scalp, face, neck, back, chest, abdomen, groin and legs.

What factors can increase the risk of folliculitis?

Factors such as excessive sweating, cutting or twisting hair, wearing tight clothes, exposure to bacteria or fungi, as well as inadequate skin care can increase the risk of folliculitis.

What is the recommended treatment for folliculitis?

Treatment for folliculitis may include the use of topical or oral antibiotics, antifungals or anti-inflammatory folliculitis creams, removal of the affected hair, use of warm compresses to soothe inflammation, and avoidance of factors that may aggravate the condition.

How can folliculitis be prevented?

To prevent folliculitis, it is recommended to avoid wearing tight clothes and clothes that retain sweat, avoid cutting or excessive twisting of the hair, use a shaving balm and non-comedogenic skin care products and maintain adequate hygiene.

When should I consult a doctor for folliculitis?

You should consult a doctor or a dermatologist if folliculitis symptoms persist or worsen, if you develop a fever, if signs of severe infection appear, or if folliculitis recurs frequently.

Are there risks or complications associated with folliculitis?

In some cases, folliculitis can lead to complications such as skin abscesses, cellulitis or the spread of infection in other parts of the body, especially in cases of severe or untreated folliculitis.