SKINIPEDIA - Skin Obesity Problems: Folliculitis

• Irritation from shaving
• Friction from tight clothing
• A pre-existing skin condition, such as eczema, acne, or another dermatitis (inflammation of the skin)
• Injuries to the skin, such as abrasions
• Extended contact from plastic bandages or adhesive tape

Who's At Risk for Folliculitis?

Folliculitis occurs in people of all ethnicities, all ages, and both sexes. Other risk factors for folliculitis include:

• Diabetes
• Suppressed immune system due to HIV, organ transplantation, or cancer
• An underlying skin condition, such as eczema, acne, or another dermatitis
• Obesity
• Living in a warm, humid climate
• Frequent shaving
• Excessive sweating due to regular exercise

Signs and Symptoms

The most common locations for folliculitis include:

• Scalp
• Beard area in men
• Underarms, groin, or legs in women
• Buttocks
• Thighs

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. Occasionally, a folliculitis lesion can erupt to form a scab on the surface of the skin.

Mild and moderate cases of folliculitis are often tender or itchy. More severe cases of folliculitis, which may be deeper and may affect the entire hair follicle, may be painful.

Mild and moderate cases of folliculitis usually clear quickly with treatment and leave no scars. However, more severe cases of folliculitis may lead to complications, such as cellulitis (an infection of the deeper skin tissue), scarring, or permanent hair loss.

Self-Care Guidelines

In order to prevent folliculitis, try the following:

• Shave in the same direction of hair growth.
• Avoid shaving irritated skin.
• Use an electric razor or a new disposable razor each time you shave.
• Consider other methods of hair removal, such as depilatories.
• Avoid tight, constrictive clothing, especially during exercise.
• Wash athletic wear after each use.

The following measures may help to clear up folliculitis if it is mild:

• Use an antibacterial soap.
• Apply hot, moist compresses to the involved area.
• Try an over-the-counter corticosteroid lotion (cortisone) to help soothe irritated or itchy skin.
• Launder towels, washcloths, and bed linens frequently, and do not share such items with others.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
  

Folliculitis Article Part 2 is here