What is folliculitis?
Folliculitis is a common skin condition in which hair follicles become inflamed.
It's usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.
The condition isn't life-threatening, but it can be itchy, sore and embarrassing.
Severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.
If you have a mild case, it'll likely clear in a few days with basic self-care measures. For more serious or recurring folliculitis, you may need to see a doctor for prescription medicine.
Symptoms
Folliculitis signs and symptoms include:
- Clusters of small red bumps or white-headed pimples that develop around hair follicles
- Pus-filled blisters that break open and crust over
- Itchy, burning skin
- Painful, tender skin
- A large swollen bump or mass
Causes
Folliculitis is most often caused by an infection of hair follicles with Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria.
Folliculitis may also be caused by viruses, fungi and even an inflammation from ingrown hairs.
Anyone can develop folliculitis. But certain factors make you more susceptible to the condition, including:
- Having a medical condition that reduces your resistance to infection, such as diabetes, chronic leukemia and HIV/AIDS
- Having acne or dermatitis
- Taking some medications
- Being a male with curly hair who shaves
- Regularly wearing clothing that traps heat and sweat
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/folliculitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20361634
