Folliculitis is a skin condition where hair follicles become inflamed and infected, causing small, inflamed bumps that can grow larger and become more inflamed over time. Folliculitis on the scalp can be caused by ingrown hairs, infection, and medication side effects. Symptoms of folliculitis include clusters of pus-filled or crusty sores, closed pimples with whiteheads, sores with brown or yellow scabs, inflamed skin, itching, burning, or tender skin, and mild fever. Folliculitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, medications, or physical injury. Some common causes of folliculitis include bacterial infection, fungal infection, poor hygiene, excessive oil production, and irritation from hair care.
There are several risk factors for developing folliculitis, including regularly wearing clothing that traps heat and sweat, soaking in a hot tub or whirlpool thats not maintained well, causing damage to hair follicles through shaving, waxing, wearing tight clothes, or hair styling practices such as traction, wigs, and oils, using some medications, such as corticosteroid creams, prednisone, long-term antibiotic therapy for acne, and certain chemotherapy drugs, and having dermatitis or excessive sweating.
Treatment options for folliculitis include avoiding shaving the affected area for several days, using a new, clean razor when shaving, avoiding scratching or rubbing the scalp, pulling at the hair, having thick or curly hair, being male, using antibiotics over the long term, having acne or dermatitis, and having a weakened immune system. Essential oils may also help soothe symptoms like itching, tenderness, and redness. If folliculitis does not improve or worsens, a person should contact a doctor immediately.
