Folliculitis Information & Treatment in Boardman, OH

Recognize The Symptoms of Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a condition in which a bacterial or fungal infection causes hair follicles to inflame. Initially, folliculitis resembles acne, with raised and colored spots that look like red bumps and white-headed pimples. Before long, the infection can quickly spread and become a patch of sores that are resistant to healing. Although folliculitis is not life-threatening, it does have unpleasant side-effects. The skin can itch, burn, and swell, while severe effects can include hair loss and scarring. A physician can treat folliculitis with antibiotics and antifungal medicine. If the doctor catches the infection early enough, the aesthetic impacts of folliculitis are preventable.

In most cases, the cause of folliculitis is an infection from staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria. Less common causes include a virus, fungus, or inflamed ingrown hair. The most condensed area of hair follicles is the scalp, but the infection can occur at any hair follicles on the body. Certain preexisting skin conditions, such as acne and dermatitis, make a person more susceptible to folliculitis, as does the regular shaving or waxing of body hair. Shaving less frequently is the most common step to prevent folliculitis. It also helps to use smart techniques, including shaving in the direction of the hair growth, not shaving too close, and applying skin moisturizers afterward. A body-wash with chlorhexidine, available from a skin-care specialist, is also a useful remedy.

When folliculitis repeatedly occurs, a person should consult a dermatologist. One suggested medical treatment may be a multiple-day regimen of antibacterial ointments. When untreated for long durations, complications of folliculitis could arise. These might include the spread or recurrence of the infection or the development of boils below the skin. In severe cases of folliculitis, permanent hair loss and skin damage, including scarring and black spots, could occur.

Folliculitis Treatment in Boardman, OH

Recognize The Symptoms of Folliculitis