Folliculitis is an infection involving hair follicles. The infection occurs when bacteria enter the skin and cause inflammation in the follicle. Symptoms of folliculitis include small white pus filled abscess pockets that resemble tiny pimples at the base of the hair, according to the Merck Manuals. Risk factors for developing folliculitis include a suppressed immune system, obesity and exposure to poorly chlorinated water in hot tubs. Without proper treatment, folliculitis may cause scarring, permanent hair loss or a bacterial infection in the tissue surrounding the hair follicles. Individuals with mild cases of folliculitis may spontaneously recover without treatment.
Step 1
Visit a physician for proper diagnosis of the folliculitis. Discuss possible treatment options with the physician and obtain a prescription for antibiotics.
Step 2
Wash the affected area with an antibacterial soap and warm water twice daily, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Apply antibiotic cream directly to the skin or take oral antibiotics to treat the infection. Follow the dosage and frequency schedule as directed by the physician or pharmacist. Large areas of the body affected by folliculitis most likely require oral antibiotics, according to the Merck Manuals.
Step 4
Apply a hot, wet compress, such as a washcloth, to the affected area several times a day. The heat helps drain the infection from the hair follicles, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Adding white vinegar to the water may help relieve the painful symptoms.
Step 5
Shave with an electric razor if the folliculitis occurs in the beard area. This can help reduce irritation because an electric razor does not shave as close to the skin as a regular razor. Shaving with gel instead of cream and shaving in the direction of the hair growth rather than against it can help reduce irritation as well, according to MayoClinic.com. If possible, it is best to avoid shaving areas affected with folliculitis until healed.
Step 6
Take antifungal medications or use antifungal cream on the affected area for folliculitis caused by a fungus rather than bacteria. Antibiotics will worsen the hair follicle infection, if caused by a fungus.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- White vinegar
- Antibiotic cream
- Oral antibiotics
- Antibacterial soap
- Antifungal medication
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