To avoid those red bumps along the bikini line, face, neck or legs, ALWAYS exfoliate. Exfoliation lifts dead skin cells and impurities to unclog pores and helps prevent ingrown hairs. Dry brushing is an effective way to remove dead skin cells before hair removal.
Using a regular soft washcloth or nylon shower scrubber to wash and exfoliate will help prevent irritation and inflammation.
In many cases of bacterial folliculitis, an over-the-counter (OTC) antibacterial wash, such as chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) or benzoyl peroxide, can provide relief. Avoid using Hibiclens above the neck. If you suspect yeast is causing your folliculitis, try an OTC antifungal cream.
Folliculitis. Folliculitis occurs when the hair follicles become inflamed. Common causes include: Lack of consistent exfoliation (aim for 2-3x a week) results in the pores becoming blocked by oil & dead skin cells.
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 is often caused when hair follicles are infected with bacteria, commonly Staphylococcus aureus (staph). It may also be caused by viruses, fungi, parasites, medications or physical injury. Sometimes the cause isn't known.
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.
People may sometimes mistake psoriasis and folliculitis for other skin conditions, including: fungal skin infections. eczema or dermatitis. pityriasis rosea.
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.
Water and Soap
One of the most basic methods of solving folliculitis involves killing off the bacteria or fungus causing the issue. Soap and water are very effective in this regard. Be sure to use hot water and clean towels.
It may be helpful to use a moisturiser (emollient) which contains an antibacterial agent - for example, Dermol® cream or lotion or Emulsiderm®. This will improve the condition of the skin and soothe it. It may help the folliculitis to clear more quickly and reduce the risk of it becoming worse.
However, folliculitis can result in painful skin inflammation, sores, and pimple-like bumps. It is often the result of improper shaving technique, poor hygiene, and wearing tight clothing. Avoiding these practices can help prevent folliculitis.
If you scratch at the bumps then touch another part of your body, or use a towel or razor that has touched an affected area, this can transfer the bacteria that can cause folliculitis. Itching can spread folliculitis to nearby follicles.
All pimples begin as comedones. Whether your acne is mild or more severe, regular exfoliation will smooth and soften the skin and brighten your complexion. It also helps reduce breakouts by keeping the pores from becoming clogged with the pus of dead cells and sebum (skin oil).
To help prevent complications and lessen the severity of folliculitis when you have it: Avoid friction caused by shaving or rubbing the infected area. Use a warm compress to calm irritation and reduce pain. Wash your towels and washcloths every day until your symptoms have subsided.
An infected ingrown hair is the result of a grown-out hair that has curled back into the skin and become infected. Recurrent cases are sometimes called folliculitis.
Antihistamines may be given to help decrease itching. Ultraviolet (UV) light therapy is used to help decrease inflammation on the skin. UV light treatments are only used to treat certain types of folliculitis.
Individual lesions of folliculitis include pus-filled bumps (pustules) centered on hair follicles. These pus-filled bumps may be pierced by an ingrown hair, can vary in size from 2–5 mm, and are often surrounded by a rim of pink to red, inflamed skin.
Folliculitis is a common skin condition caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. The individual usually acquires it by shaving or plucking body hair, having hot tub baths, wearing tight clothes, etc. It is not a sexually transmitted disease but may look similar to herpes.
Treatment depends on the type of folliculitis and its severity. But usually some form of topical cream or antibiotic pill will be used to kill the bacteria. Laser hair removal can help prevent a spread of the infection.
While many things can damage your hair follicles, the following are common causes of folliculitis: Hot tub (improperly maintained)
Regular scalp exfoliation can help prevent the build-up of oil, excess sebum, dead skin cells, or hair products. When these things build up around the hair follicle, you can risk folliculitis if left untreated for an extended period of time. Folliculitis occurs when the hair follicle becomes inflamed and infected.
There are many things you can do to prevent folliculitis or keep it from spreading. Bathe or shower daily with a mild soap. Also, bathe or shower after you exercise and after you work around chemicals.
Topical antibiotic ointments, such as Neosporin or generic neomycin, bacitracin, and polymyxin b triple antibiotic ointment, may help scalp folliculitis heal up faster. Apply the ointment to the affected area a few times daily.