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Folliculitis - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Definition

Folliculitis is the infection of hair follicles. Folliculitis can affect both women and men. It can also occur at any age. It can develop on any part of the body. But it is most likely to occur on the scalp, face, or parts of the arms, armpits, or legs which is not usually covered by clothing. Folliculitis usually appears as small, white-headed pimples around one or more hair follicles the tiny pockets from which each hair grows.

Causes

It is usually caused by bacteria, especially the type called staph (Staphylococcus). It can also be caused by yeast and another type of fungus. Folliculitis caused by a fungus is most often seen in people who have trouble fighting infections because they have an impaired immune system.

Other factors that increase the risk of folliculitis include:
Diabetes
Chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis
Wearing tight clothing
Living in unsanitary conditions
Heat and humidity
Staphylococcal infection in the nasal passages

Folliculitis can be spread from one person to another because the bacteria that cause it are contagious.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of folliculitis are varying. Its depending on the type of infection. In superficial forms of the disorder, small pimples develop around one or more hair follicles. It then turns into a small, raised area of skin that contains pus and often itches or burns. When these pustules break open, they may drain pus and or blood.

Hot tub folliculitis" typically appears about 72 hours after you have been in a hot tub or spa. Many small pustules appear on your torso and sometimes your arms and legs. You may have a mild fever and feel ill. This type of folliculitis usually goes away on its own within 7 to 10 days.

Treatment

Treatment may not be needed, as the mild form of the disease usually clears on its own. Oral or topical anti-pruritics (anti-itch medications) may be used. Extensive or severe spa pool folliculitis can be treated with topical or systemic antibiotics active against gram negative bacteria, such as:
Gentamicin cream
Polymyxin B spray
Oral ciprofloxacin
Vinegar compresses applied for 20 minutes two to four times a day
Silver sulfadiazine cream applied two times a day

The responsible pool should be properly cleaned and disinfected with adequate chlorination or other method.
If you have folliculitis, do not share a razor, towel, or washcloth with anyone because the condition is contagious. If the infected hair follicles are in an area that you shave, you may need to take a break from shaving until the condition has cleared up. Always make sure the blade in your razor is new and clean to avoid infecting the area again. You can help prevent scalp folliculitis by shampooing your hair regularly.