Folliculitis | Dermatology Associates of Seattle

Folliculitis is inflammation or infection in one or more of the pockets from which hair grows (follicles).

Incidence: Very Common
○ More than 3 million US cases per year
○ Usually self-treatable
○ Usually self-diagnosable
○ Lab tests or imaging rarely required
○ Short-term: resolves within days to weeks

Folliculitis may be more common among those with acne. Shaving, waxing and wearing clothes that rub can also increase the risk of developing this condition. Small, white-headed pimples appear around the hair follicles. They may itch or be painful. Severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring. Mild cases often clear on their own. Antibiotics or other drugs may be needed for severe cases.

Cause of folliculitis: Folliculitis is caused by an infection of some or many hair follicles with Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) infectious bacteria. Folliculitis is also caused by viruses, fungi and inflammation due to ingrown hairs.

What does folliculitis look like?

Folliculitis requires a medical diagnosis: Folliculitis can be diagnosed when seeing small, white-headed pimples appear around the hair follicles. They may itch or be painful. Severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.

Treating Folliculitis:

Self-care treatment for folliculitis: Self-care is not advised, but as a guide, mild cases often clear on their own by stopping shaving. Good hygiene is also very helpful but scrubbing the skin may make things worse.

Clinical Treatment for Allergic Contact Dermatitis:

It is recommended that you see a qualified dermatologist if improvement is not seen within the first 24-48 hours. Medications we might use include Antibiotics and a topical antiseptic shower gel. In cases where shaving or waxing is a major factor causing folliculitis, laser hair removal can be an option and we'd be happy to discuss that with you. Schedule an appointment as soon as you become aware of this condition. [ Make an appointment }

IF YOU REQUIRE SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT, A CLINICAL APPOINTMENT IS RECOMMENDED

Dermatology Associates of Seattle is a clinic facility, research center, testing laboratory, and pharmacy. Each of our patients receives individualized care to their specific needs with a complete and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment process. Connect with us today and start a conversation about how we can make both you and your skin happier and healthier.

Folliculitis Symptoms and Causes

Folliculitis is inflammation or infection in one or more of the pockets from which hair grows (follicles).

Incidence: Very Common ○ More than 3 million US cases per year ○ Usually self-treatable ○ Usually self-diagnosable ○ Lab tests or imaging rarely required ○ Short-term: resolves within days to weeks

Cause of folliculitis: Folliculitis is caused by an infection of some or many hair follicles with Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) infectious bacteria. Folliculitis is also caused by viruses, fungi and inflammation due to ingrown hairs.

What does folliculitis look like?

IF YOU REQUIRE SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT, A CLINICAL APPOINTMENT IS RECOMMENDED

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Incidence: Very Common
○ More than 3 million US cases per year
○ Usually self-treatable
○ Usually self-diagnosable
○ Lab tests or imaging rarely required
○ Short-term: resolves within days to weeks