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What is Folliculitis
Folliculitis is inflammation around the hair follicles and this can occur with any hairs on the scalp, beard area or the body.
What causes Folliculitis
The causes of Folliculitis can be varied and can include a bacterial infection, a fungal infection, inflammation or ingrown hairs. Commonly Staphylococcus aureus can be seen as a causing agent. This can sometimes be harboured in the nasal passages or other parts of the body and then cause re-infection even when the treated area has cleared.
What are the symptoms of Folliculitis
The signs of Folliculitis include redness around the hair follicles, flaking or pustules. These areas may feel painful or itchy or sore.
We may see a red swelling around the base of the hair, and the follicle may be clogged, and sealed over as a pustule
When in the beard region, raised spots or pustules could be cut by a razor, causing bleeding and spread infection to other hair follicles in the nearby area
How do you treat Folliculitis
When treated Folliculitis it is important to identify if the cause is bacterial, fungal or mechanical, such as ingrown hairs. Often a swab is taken to identify any pathogenic bacteria.
Treatment options include antibacterial agents, antifungal agents or anti-inflammatory treatments. We may prescribe an antibiotic ointment to be applied inside the nostrils to address any harbouring Staphylococcus aureus.
