Folliculitis is a common skin disease characterized by the inflammation of hair follicles. This condition can range from mild to severe and may cause symptoms such as itching, tenderness, or discomfort. At SkinPerfected, our healthcare providers offer laser hair removal to address this skin concern.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of folliculitis include the following:
- Itching or uncomfortable sensations
- Pain or tenderness around hair follicles
- Clusters of small red bumps or white-headed pimples
Causes
Understanding the various causes of folliculitis is essential for implementing preventative measures and selecting appropriate treatment options to address the underlying factors contributing to the condition. Folliculitis can arise from various causes, including:
- Shaving often
- Using an oral antibiotic for a long period of time.
- Being overweight or obese
- Having a history of diabetes
- Doing activities that make you sweat a lot and not fully cleaning off afterward
- Spending time in a hot tub (this is often called hot tub folliculitis or hot tub rash) or sauna that isn’t properly cleaned
- Blockage of hair follicles by oils, sweat, or cosmetic products
Types of Folliculitis
There are several different forms of folliculitis, including the following:
Staphylococcus aureus folliculitis
This is a bacterial infection of the hair follicle with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and is one of the most common causes of folliculitis. Small red or white pus-filled pimples show up on the skin. The affected area often gets better within a few days and can be cared for at home.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa folliculitis
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacteria that lives in heated, moving water. It can infect the hair follicle and cause a rash. Hot tub folliculitis occurs one to two days after exposure and typically fades on its own within a couple of days.
Malassezia folliculitis
Malassezia is a type of yeast that is normally found on the skin. Sometimes, when the Malassezia gets into the hair follicles, it can cause what looks like an acne breakout. It usually occurs on the upper chest and back. This form of folliculitis is made worse by sweat.
Gram-negative folliculitis
Gram-negative folliculitis can happen after prolonged antibiotics. Over time, resistant bacteria grow and multiply.
This bacterial folliculitis can lead to the acne getting worse and requires treatment from a healthcare provider.
Our Providers
Meet The Team
Our founding team is composed of dermatology expert providers and managers that have been active participants in the dermatology and aesthetic medical industry for over 20 years each.
Treatments
The main treatment we use for folliculitis is laser hair removal. By removing the hair and damaging the hair follicle, we address the problem where it starts. With the help of a laser handpiece, we’ll apply laser energy to the treatment area, removing the hair and addressing the underlying condition.
Consulting with SkinPerfected will help determine the most suitable cosmetic treatment plan tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Schedule A Consultation
Dealing with folliculitis? SkinPerfected provides comprehensive solutions designed to assist you. Our skilled skincare professionals will assess the condition of your skin, listen to your worries and aspirations, and craft a personalized treatment regimen to support you in achieving the results you desire. To explore your eligibility further, reach out to us online or drop by our facility in Naperville, IL to schedule a consultation.
Folliculitis FAQs
What causes folliculitis?Bacterial or yeast overgrowth, ingrown hairs, friction from tight clothing, excessive sweating, or irritation from shaving and waxing can cause folliculitis. Identifying the trigger is key to preventing recurrence. How do you get rid of folliculitis?Treatment for folliculitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Some milder cases can be resolved with at-home treatments and care. However, in more severe cases, in-office treatments such as laser hair removal may be necessary to address recurrent folliculitis. What can be mistaken for folliculitis?Conditions such as acne, eczema, contact dermatitis, and razor bumps share common features with folliculitis, including redness, itching, and small bumps on the skin. Proper diagnosis by SkinPerfected is essential to distinguish folliculitis from other skin conditions and determine the appropriate treatment plan. What do folliculitis spots look like?The appearance of folliculitis spots can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition– the affected area may be itchy, tender, or painful, and in some cases, the bumps may contain pus. What triggers folliculitis?Folliculitis can be triggered by various factors, including bacterial or fungal infections, friction or irritation, ingrown hairs, “hot tub” folliculitis, and various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, or dermatitis. Does folliculitis smell?In some cases, folliculitis may produce a foul odor, particularly if there is a secondary bacterial or fungal infection present. Proper hygiene, along with targeted treatment of the underlying infection, can help alleviate the odor associated with folliculitis. What types of folliculitis exist?There are several types of folliculitis, including bacterial folliculitis (often caused by Staphylococcus bacteria), fungal folliculitis (often caused by yeast), pseudofolliculitis barbae (commonly known as razor bumps), and eosinophilic folliculitis (often seen in individuals with compromised immune systems). Each type may require different treatment approaches. Can folliculitis be contagious?Bacterial and fungal forms of folliculitis can be contagious. Bacterial folliculitis may spread through direct skin contact or by sharing personal items like towels or razors. However, fungal folliculitis is not transmitted through physical contact but can occur in environments like poorly maintained pools or hot tubs. How can I prevent folliculitis from recurring?To prevent recurrence, maintain good hygiene by keeping the skin clean and dry, avoid tight clothing that may irritate hair follicles, use non-comedogenic skincare products, and avoid sharing personal items. For those prone to razor bumps, consider changing shaving techniques or better yet get laser hair removal. If we get rid of the hair we get rid of the problem! What complications can arise from untreated folliculitis?If left untreated, folliculitis can lead to complications such as deep infections (boils or carbuncles), scarring, permanent hair loss in the affected area, and cellulitis, which is a more serious skin infection that can spread to the bloodstream. Is there a specific diet that can help manage folliculitis?While there is no specific diet proven to prevent or treat folliculitis directly, maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can support overall skin health. Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods may also help reduce inflammation in the body. Can folliculitis go away on its own?Mild cases may resolve with improved hygiene and avoidance of triggers. However, persistent or recurring folliculitis often benefits from professional treatment to address the underlying cause. Is laser hair removal effective for folliculitis?By reducing hair growth and preventing ingrown hairs, laser hair removal is one of the most effective long-term solutions for folliculitis related to shaving or waxing. Can Hydrafacial Body help with folliculitis?Hydrafacial Body can help by deeply cleansing pores, removing dead skin buildup, and soothing inflamed skin, supporting clearer, healthier-looking skin over time. How long does it take to see results?Results vary depending on the treatment and severity of the condition. Some patients notice improvements after a few sessions, while others achieve the best results through a customized combination approach. |