Folliculitis is described as an inflammation in the hair follicles, caused by bacterial, fungal or parasitic infection. This skin condition is a result of infected hair follicles that may appear sore and bumpy. Topical steroids overuse/misuse, skin disorders, and exposure to irritant chemicals are also some of the folliculitis causes. Hair folliculitis may appear on any part of the body which includes your face, arms, lower legs, and upper back.
Even if it is a common skin condition, negligence can result in severe infections and complications. As a result, it is crucial to have sufficient information about folliculitis along with the suitable infected hair follicle treatment. This blog would guide you about the symptoms of folliculitis along with how to find the right folliculitis treatment.
Symptoms of Folliculitis
You can identify folliculitis by undergoing a thorough self-check. The most common symptoms of folliculitis include red bumps on the skin’s surface which may resemble pimples surrounding hair follicles. Some other symptoms include:
- Pus-filled blisters: These may appear as white bumps on your skin that are filled with pus (pustules).
- Itchy skin: Folliculitis can make the skin feel itchy and uncomfortable. It is advisable not to touch or scratch the area of folliculitis since it may worsen the condition.
- Tender skin: Folliculitis is characterised by tenderness and swelling that form around the infected hair follicle.
- Inflamed skin: Inflammation is a key immune defence performed by the body. The body may send cells to fight against pathogens like bacteria and yeast that may cause folliculitis.
5 folliculitis home treatment:
Most cases of folliculitis are mild, making folliculitis treatment much easier with the right methods. Both fungal and bacterial folliculitis treatment can be done through home remedies that can relieve you from the soreness and itching caused by folliculitis. The following 5 folliculitis remedies are the best ones that you can try at home:
- Apply Warm Compresses
Placing warm compresses on the infected area helps to soothe soreness, ease pain and swelling around the folliculitis. Warm compresses using a teaspoon of salt reduces itching and draws out the pus. Be sure to use a sterilised washcloth.
- Use Over-the-Counter Products
Products like antibiotic creams and ointments may help to clear out mild folliculitis. You can also use anti-itching lotions and creams to bring down the itching, redness, and swelling due to folliculitis. Aloe vera gel is also an effective product to cure an infected hair follicle. Due to its cooling properties, aloe vera gel can soothe the infected area and help stop the infection from spreading.
- Do Hydrogen Peroxide Washes
An effective folliculitis treatment, hydrogen peroxide washes help kill pathogens like fungi and bacteria which cause folliculitis. It is advisable to dilute the hydrogen peroxide with sterile water before applying it to the skin.
- Use Wet Wraps
A wet wrap is an effective hair follicle treatment since it helps ease skin irritation and itching. Wet wraps hydrate the skin and reduce symptoms of folliculitis along with preventing the infection from worsening. It is also a great therapy for people with skin conditions like eczema and painful skin rashes.
- Apply Essential Oils
Applying essential oils is the most natural folliculitis treatment you can find. Essential oils like cinnamon oil, clove oil, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil contain antifungal and antibacterial properties. Prefer diluting the essential oil by adding a few drops to a moisturising cream.
Conclusion
Folliculitis is a common skin condition that can result from an infected hair follicle due to bacteria. It causes the formation of pimples and boils that can be itchy, sore, and painful. If your condition persists even after one or two weeks of self-treatment, it is better to consult a dermatologist. Folliculitis treatments antibiotics are common medications to treat and prevent the spread of the infection. You may be prescribed some folliculitis antibiotics or antifungal medication to treat an infected hair follicle.
