Treatment depends on the cause, whether bacterial, fungal or irritation. Mild folliculitis often settles down with an antiseptic wash. More severe folliculitis might need antibiotic ointment or tablets. If the infection has progressed into a large boil, this may need draining by a doctor.
Aloe Vera Application
Long known as a natural healing solution, aloe vera applied topically to an irritated follicle site can help the skin repair as well as kill off some types of bacteria. The double-benefit has made aloe vera a regular go-to remedy for all types of skin situations, including folliculitis.
Because most folliculitis is caused by S. aureus, treatment with topical mupirocin or topical clindamycin is generally effective. Alternatively, benzoyl peroxide 5% wash may be used for 5 to 7 days when showering.
Sometimes, when Malassezia gets into the hair follicles, it can cause an itchy condition that looks like an acne breakout. It usually occurs on the upper chest and back. This form of folliculitis is made worse (aggravated) by sweat.
Folliculitis starts when hair follicles are damaged or when the follicle is blocked. For example, this may occur from rubbing against clothing or shaving.
Folliculitis signs and symptoms include: Clusters of small bumps or pimples around hair follicles. Pus-filled blisters that break open and crust over. Itchy, burning skin.
Diagnosis of folliculitis
They may take a swab of the infected skin to test for which bacteria or fungus is the cause of the folliculitis. In rare cases, a doctor may order a skin biopsy to exclude the possibility of other causes.
Follicles are the openings in the skin where the hair grows (Picture 1). The rash appears as small red bumps or pus bumps that can itch or be mildly painful. Folliculitis is common on the buttocks, arms and legs - especially the thighs. Most improve in 7 to 10 days.
There isn't a cure for folliculitis decalvans. But treatments can reduce inflammation and prevent scarring and further hair loss. The condition sometimes goes into remission (no symptoms) but can return and cause a flare (active symptoms). Treatment is often an ongoing process.
Tea tree oil is a popular natural treatment for the skin. The essential oil appears to have antimicrobial properties that might help keep the skin clear and kill the bacteria that cause folliculitis.
Non-medical / home treatment
Compresses will likely reduce itching and draw out any pus-filled bumps (drainage). A moistened compress soaked in a saltwater solution (1 teaspoon of salt in 2 cups of water) can help to soothe the skin and promote healing.
These differ between people but often include stress, diet, and other lifestyle factors. The following factors can increase a person's risk of folliculitis: using an improperly maintained hot tub. shaving, plucking, or waxing.
Many small pimples appear on your stomach and sometimes on your arms and legs. You might have a mild fever and have an upset stomach. Most of the time, this kind of folliculitis goes away on its own in 7 to 10 days.
The infection can spread and turn into crusty sores. Mild folliculitis will likely heal without scarring in a few days with basic self-care. More-serious or repeat infections may need prescription medicine. Left untreated, severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.
Antibacterial soap: Use antibacterial bar soaps such as Dial® or Cetaphil®. Use skin washes that contain benzoyl peroxide. If these bumps are bothersome or painful. If they are not improving or continue to appear.
Don't cut, poke, or squeeze the sores. This can be painful and spread infection. Don't scratch the affected area.
Exfoliating will help get rid of dead skin cells, which can help clear any ongoing outbreaks.
Apply the lotion or cream directly over the affected area in a thin layer. Mild bacterial folliculitis can be cured with clindamycin or metronidazole lotion. Antifungal medication is ketoconazole.
Chronic or recurring folliculitis is less likely to clear with just antibiotics. Often this is on the legs of women, but it can occur in any areas of shaving, waxing, hair plucking or friction. These need to be stopped for at least 3 months to allow the hair to grow in healthy.
Gentamicin cream helps treat folliculitis by halting the growth of bacteria. It is usually more effective in minor cases that have not spread too far or too deep into the follicles. Application: Clean the affected area with gauze and warm water. Use a clean gauze to pat dry.
Deep folliculitis is best approached with warm compresses, followed by incision and drainage once a conical pustular head develops. For recurrent and recalcitrant folliculitis, in addition to oral antibiotics, a search for a bacterial reservoir is important.