Used for generations for skin ailments, witch hazel is safe and effective for a myriad of hair and skin conditions, including folliculitis. Witch hazel fights bacteria while soothing irritation, including itching and inflammation, according to a study published in the International Journal of Trichology.
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. Bathe with lukewarm water.
MEASURES YOU CAN TAKE TO HELP TREAT YOUR FOLLICULITIS:
A holistic treatment may include soaking the affected area in a tub of diluted white vinegar (1 part vinegar to 4 parts of water) or soaking in a bathtub with very diluted Clorox bleach (1/4 cup of Clorox bleach in a bathtub of water).
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.
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.
Hydrogen Peroxide
It works just as well for folliculitis. The chemical mix will immediately kill off bacteria and fungus, and the excess can be wiped off with disposable towels. You can repeat applications of hydrogen peroxide.
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.
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.
Chronic folliculitis can be more difficult to treat. Antibiotics and other medications may not clear up chronic cases. If other treatment options fail, your doctor may recommend laser hair removal. During treatment, you should refrain from removing hair by plucking, waxing, or shaving.
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.
- Apple Cider Vinegar known as an antimicrobial agent can also be used to manage the problem. Mix 1 tablespoon of ACV with ½ a cup of water. Dip cotton balls in the mixture and apply onto the affected areas for twenty mins, repeat twice a day.
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.
However, using a regular loofah or scrub may be too harsh, especially for those with inflamed or tender skin. Using a regular soft washcloth or nylon shower scrubber to wash and exfoliate will help prevent irritation and inflammation.
Follow these tips when applying medication to your 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.
Folliculitis usually occurs in areas where the hair follicles have been damaged by friction or shaving or where there is obstruction of the follicle. Factors that trigger it are poor hygiene, humidity and tight clothes. If you have mild symptoms, they will probably go away in a few days with basic self-care measures.
Folliculitis initially causes small, red bumps that look similar to an acne breakout. Over time, it may spread to other follicles and the bumps may get larger and more inflamed. While it can affect any part of your scalp, it often begins along your hairline.
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.
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.
Management and Treatment
When pityrosporum folliculitis is severe or doesn't go away, your healthcare provider may prescribe antifungal pills (systemic treatment). These include antifungal drugs such as fluconazole (Diflucan®) or ketoconazole.
Folliculitis is less contagious, but the causative agent is bacteria such as staphylococcus aureus, green pus bacillus or Herpes simplex virus that can be transmitted by sharing utensils such as razors, towels, or direct contact. ...