Folliculitis is a skin condition where hair follicles become inflamed and infected. It occurs most frequently in places that are shaved such as the beard area and legs. It can also appear on arms, back, and buttocks. Looking very similar to acne, it can sometimes turn into a worse and more serious skin condition such as a staph infection.

Possible long-term side effects of folliculitis are:

• Permanent hair loss from the destruction of hair follicles
• Large, itchy patches of infected skin
• Boils under the skin

The causes of folliculitis may vary, much like the causes of acne (besides hereditary factors, acne can be caused by certain foods, products, and exercising without wiping sweat off.) Some of the most common causes for folliculitis include:

• Virus or fungi
• Staph infection
• Injuries to the skin
• Tight clothing
• Damaged follicles
• Inflammatory skin conditions such as acne
• Friction from shaving
• Heat and sweat from wearing rubber gloves or waders

Symptoms of folliculitis can be similar to acne, which is why they are often treated in a similar manner. The symptoms include the following:

• Tenderness
• Pain
• Inflamed skin and scalp
• Bumps with pus
• Small boils
• Severe acne lesions
• Barber’s itch
• Pain associated with blisters
• Crusting of pimple
• Chronic red face
• A large swollen bump or mass
• Itchy, burning skin

Prevention is your best weapon against folliculitis. With that being said, waiting too long to have this skin condition checked out can result in the more permanent side-effects like those mentioned above. Here is how to prevent folliculitis:

• Keep skin clean
• Apply mandelic acid such as this Exfoliating Serum Lite or this Exfoliating Serum 2, both of which kill the bacteria before it gets into the open follicles
• Use antibacterial soap for handwashing
• Go to a Skincare and Acne Clinic for a consultation
• Drink lots of water
• Avoid friction from tight clothing
• Use clean 1 bladed razors for shaving, throw out every other use and use new

Once you know the causes of folliculitis, it can be simple to look out for and get the right remedies. Folliculitis does not have to be a lifelong problem for you. Especially if it is caught early on, your skin can be saved from itchy red bumps and pus-filled blisters. Use the information above to help your skin condition or simply give us a call at 801-800-6602 today.