Unless the skin is sensitive, drying, antiseptic lotions should be used on the affected areas such as Xerac-AC (aluminum chlorhydrate solution), Cleocin-T solution or Benzaclin gel. In some cases, the infection with unusual bacteria may be picked up from a dirty hot tub or scrubbing brush.
Most cases of folliculitis are mild and do not need any treatment. It often clears without any treatment within 7-10 days. It may be helpful to use: A moisturiser (emollient) which contains an antibacterial agent - for example, Dermol® cream.
Try one of the many infection-fighting lotions, gels and washes that are available in stores without a prescription. Apply a soothing lotion or cream. Try relieving itchy skin with a soothing lotion or a nonprescription-strength hydrocortisone cream.
Folliculitis is an infection of hair follicles. Diagnosis is clinical. Treatment for most cases of bacterial folliculitis is with topical mupirocin or clindamycin. (See also Overview of Bacterial Skin Infections.)
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.
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.
Essential Oils. Tea tree oil, neem oil, geranium oil, grapefruit seed oil are very effective in treating folliculitis. Tea tree oil can be added to your shampoo, lotion or body wash. Rub it gently onto the affected area and let it sit.
Pityrosporum folliculitis initially responds to topical antifungals such as ketoconazole cream or shampoo but is often associated with relapses. For relapses, systemic antifungals such as fluconazole and itraconazole should be initiated.
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.
CeraVe Smoothing Cleanser contains salicylic acid, which is known to exfoliate the skin. This means it can help unclog pores and improve skin texture, which can be beneficial for folliculitis.
Wear loose, breathable clothes to reduce irritation. Shave carefully. Use a clean, sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth.
In some cases, folliculitis can be exacerbated by dry or irritated skin. Using a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer can help maintain skin hydration and reduce irritation, potentially alleviating some symptoms associated with folliculitis.
Folliculitis starts when hair follicles are damaged or when the follicle is blocked. For example, this may occur from rubbing against clothing or shaving. Most of the time, the damaged follicles become infected with staphylococci (staph) bacteria.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports skin health and can help prevent folliculitis. Foods high in vitamins A, C and E can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Folliculitis Treatment
Mild cases can often be treated at home with over-the-counter medications, such as antibacterial cleaners for the affected area, anti-itch cream to treat symptoms, increased personal hygiene, and applying warm towels to the skin to ease discomfort.
An antibiotic such as tetracycline or minocycline can be given for 4 to 6 weeks. Unless the skin is sensitive, drying, antiseptic lotions should be used on the affected areas such as Xerac-AC (aluminum chlorhydrate solution), Cleocin-T solution or Benzaclin gel.
Anyone can get folliculitis, but people who shave or wax regularly seem to develop it more often than others. Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles. The best treatment for folliculitis includes washing the area and applying aloe vera gel, diluted hydrogen peroxide or anti-itch agents.
Home therapy for mild cases of bacterial folliculitis includes the use of an over-the-counter antibacterial wash like benzoyl peroxide (Clearisil, Proactiv), chlorhexidine (Hibiclens), or Phisoderm twice a day. The best results may be achieved with combination therapy using topical products and antibacterial washes.
Initial treatment of folliculitis includes warm compresses 2-3 times per day. Certain antibacterial soaps including Dial®, Hibiclens® wash or a benzoyl peroxide wash can be helpful, though can irritate the skin. For more severe cases, topical or even oral antibiotics can be used.
Dial Complete Antibacterial Body Wash, Apple Blossom scent, kills 99.99 percent of bacteria encountered in most household settings. This body wash is from the number 1 doctor recommended antibacterial hand and bar soap brand and effectively cleans without drying your skin.
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.