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Folliculitis
Mild
Folliculitis is inflammation of one or more hair follicles that can cause small red bumps, pimples, pustules, itching, tenderness, or discomfort. It can occur on many areas of the body, including the scalp, beard area, neck, groin, buttocks, and thighs. Folliculitis may result from irritation or blockage of follicles and may sometimes involve bacterial or fungal infection.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Folliculitis is usually mild, but medical assessment is appropriate when bumps are widespread, painful, recurrent, or worsening. Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, significant swelling, pus, fever, or increasing pain because a deeper skin infection may be developing.
Symptoms
2
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Folliculitis is inflammation of one or more hair follicles that can cause small red bumps, pimples, pustules, itching, tenderness, or discomfort. It can occur on many areas of the body, including the scalp, beard area, neck, groin, buttocks, and thighs. Folliculitis may result from irritation or blockage of follicles and may sometimes involve bacterial or fungal infection.
Symptoms 2
Hair Loss
Sudden Vision Loss
Causes 1
Folliculitis can develop when hair follicles are damaged, blocked, or irritated. Friction from clothing, shaving, sweating, and repeated skin irritation can damage follicles. Bacterial infection, particularly with staphylococci, is a common cause of infectious folliculitis. Fungal infections can cause some forms, while ingrown hairs may produce inflammation without a bacterial infection.
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk increases with shaving, friction from clothing or equipment, sweating, prolonged moisture, and activities that repeatedly irritate the skin. People with curly hair may be more prone to ingrown hairs after shaving. Certain skin conditions, weakened immunity, or exposure to contaminated water can also increase the likelihood of some forms of folliculitis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Folliculitis is usually diagnosed by examining the skin and identifying the characteristic bumps or pustules around hair follicles. The healthcare professional may ask about shaving, friction, recent exposures, medicines, and previous episodes. When infection is suspected or symptoms are recurrent or severe, a sample from an affected follicle may be tested to identify bacteria or fungi and guide treatment.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Reducing friction and avoiding unnecessary damage to hair follicles can help prevent folliculitis
Avoid shaving affected areas when possible
when shaving is necessary, use a clean razor and avoid cutting hairs excessively close to the skin
Wear breathable clothing, keep sweaty skin clean and dry, and avoid sharing razors or personal grooming items
Recurrent infections should be evaluated for an underlying cause
Prevention Guidance
Reducing friction and avoiding unnecessary damage to hair follicles can help prevent folliculitis. Avoid shaving affected areas when possible; when shaving is necessary, use a clean razor and avoid cutting hairs excessively close to the skin. Wear breathable clothing, keep sweaty skin clean and dry, and avoid sharing razors or personal grooming items. Recurrent infections should be evaluated for an underlying cause.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh fruits
Support healing
Vegetables
Support immunity
Protein-rich foods
Tissue repair
Foods to Avoid
Sugary foods
May worsen infection
Processed foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Inflammation of hair follicles.
Bacteria, fungi, or irritation.
Small red bumps and itching.
Yes, shaving may trigger it.
Maintain hygiene and avoid irritation.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.