What does folliculitis mean in medical terms?
Folliculitis means an inflamed hair follicle due to any cause. The result is a tender red spot, often with a surface pustule. Folliculitis may be superficial or deep. It can affect anywhere there are hairs, including chest, back, buttocks, arms, and legs.
Why do I get folliculitis on my hair?
Here are a few common causes and things you can do to prevent getting folliculitis: Wear loose clothing when it’s hot and humid. Tight clothing tends to rub against your skin. When it’s hot and humid, the constant rubbing can injure your hair follicles, causing folliculitis.
How can I reduce the risk of folliculitis?
Some people develop folliculitis when they apply medication, such as coal tar, to their skin. You may reduce the risk of developing folliculitis by: Applying the medication in the same direction in which your hair grows. Not covering the treated area with a bandage or clothing, when possible.
Can you get folliculitis on your back?
Folliculitis may be superficial or deep. It can affect anywhere there are hairs, including chest, back, buttocks, arms, and legs. Acne and its variants are also types of folliculitis. See more images of folliculitis. What causes folliculitis?
What should I do if I have chronic folliculitis?
If all conventional treatment fails, your doctor may suggest laser hair removal. You should not remove hair by waxing, plucking, or shaving before your treatment. This is because allowing your hair to grow helps to heal your follicles. In the case of chronic folliculitis, your doctor may suggest hair growth for up to three months.
What does folliculitis look like in a hot tub?
Folliculitis can appear anywhere on the skin, except for our palms and soles. What does folliculitis look like? It usually looks like a sudden acne breakout. Each spot may have a red ring around it, which is a sign of the infection. Folliculitis caused by sitting in a hot tub. What are the symptoms of folliculitis? Symptoms can vary.
How can you tell if you have bacterial folliculitis?
Bacterial folliculitis is usually diagnosed clinically but can be confirmed by bacterial swabs sent for microscopy, culture and sensitivity. Blood count may reveal neutrophil leucocytosis when folliculitis is widespread. Skin biopsy is rarely necessary.
Can a dermatologist tell if you have folliculitis?
While the acne-like breakouts of folliculitis tend to go away on their own, it can feel unsettling to suddenly see these appear on your skin. A board-certified dermatologist can tell you whether you have folliculitis and help you feel more comfortable.