Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
FOLLICULITIS
About Your
Diagnosis
Folliculitis is a common skin
infection of the hair follicles (base of the hair). It is usually a mild
infection caused by staphylococcal bacteria after a break in the skin. Certain
bacteria in hot tubs or pools can lead to folliculitis. Pseudofolliculitis
resembles folliculitis but is actually a reaction to shaving with razors, and is
treated differently than folliculitis. A doctor can usually make the diagnosis
with visual inspection of the skin, but sometimes a sample of a pustule is taken
for culture. Mild folliculitis may resolve without treatment, but antibiotics
may be required to quicken the cure. The risk of folliculitis is higher in
patients with diabetes, poor hygiene, and certain chronic illnesses.
Living With Your
Diagnosis
In patients with
folliculitis, there are many small, white, pus-filled bumps (pustules)
surrounded by red or pink skin. Hairs may be seen near or in a pustule.
Folliculitis can occur anywhere on the body. Sometimes the pustules can be
painful. Although there are no long-term effects of folliculitis, recurrences
are
common.
Treatment
Mild
cases are treated with antibiotic creams such as over-the-counter bacitracin or
Burow’s solution. In moderate-to-severe cases, antibiotics by mouth clear
the infection in 1–2 weeks with minimal side
effects.
The
DOs
• Bathe at least once per day
during and after treatment.
• Use an
antibacterial soap.
• Gently remove
crusts or pustules with a washcloth while
bathing.
• After drying off apply
medication.
• Clean and wash clothing
and bedding regularly.
• Replace old
razors. They can worsen the
problem.
• If you are diabetic,
follow your diet carefully and take your
medication.
The
DON’Ts
• Don’t
scratch affected areas. This can cause the infection to spread. Use cool
compresses to help with itching.
•
Don’t shave red, tender, or swollen areas until they are
healed.
• Don’t share towels or
clothing while infected because this can spread infection to
others.
When to Call Your
Doctor
• If fever develops during
treatment.
• If the infection spreads
or a pus pocket develops during
treatment.
• If folliculitis recurs
after treatment.