Folliculitis is a condition characterized by infection of hair follicles. Staphylococcus aureus is a bacteria that commonly causes folliculitis, but this condition can be caused by other bacteria. Severe cases of folliculitis can cause permanent hair loss or scarring. The first sign of folliculitis is the development of small, white-headed bumps around one or more hair follicles. Symptoms of folliculitis include itching and pain. Folliculitis does usually clear up on its own in a few days but there are steps patients can take to treat the symptoms.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are used to treat at least two forms of folliculitis, gram-negative and staphylococcal folliculitis. These antibiotics may be administered in a pill, or a topical cream that can be applied as a treatment to the scalp. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dicloxacillin is a commonly prescribed oral antibiotic and mupirocin is a commonly prescribed topical antibiotic. Similar to other conditions, regardless of the type, antibiotics are prescribed for a specific period of time and must be taken for the duration specified to fully treat the condition and prevent a relapse.
Warm Treatment
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends using warm compresses on the affected area to reduce inflammation of the hair follicles, promote drainage and relieve pain and itching. Patients can create a warm compress by saturating a clean towel with water and warming it in the microwave. Patients should apply the warm towel to the affected area until the towel cools. This process can be repeated as often as necessary until the condition clears up.
Lifestyle Modifications
Folliculitis can occur in any area on the body where hair grows. As a result of hair removal methods and the likelihood of ingrown hair, folliculitis commonly occurs in areas that are shaved such as the face, pubic area or underarms. While suffering from folliculitis, the Mayo Clinic recommends using an alternative hair removal method instead of shaving. After the infection clears up, patients should consider using an electric razor because it provides a closer shave and reduces the risk of ingrown hairs or inflammation of the follicles. If a patient wishes to use a standard razor, he should use a clean razor each time and use a shaving gel instead of a shaving cream to help reduce inflammation of the skin during a shave.
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