Folliculitis is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles (small holes where hair grows) become inflamed; usually due to a bacterial infection. It appears in a very similar way to acne, with red pimples and a hair in the center, sometimes they fill with pus and cause itching, irritation and pain; They can appear anywhere on the body, on the scalp, beard, armpits, limbs, back, among others. On this occasion, Dr. Yaril Moreyra, dermatologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, offer us more information.

Risk factors

Anyone can suffer from folliculitis, but certain factors increase the risk of developing this condition; For example:

• Frequent use of synthetic clothing that traps heat and sweat
• Soaking baths in hot tubs, hot tubs or public pools that are not properly maintained
• Damage to hair follicles from shaving, waxing, or wearing tight clothing
• Use of some medications such as corticosteroid creams, long-term antibiotic therapy, and certain chemotherapy drugs
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Diabetes, HIV, AIDS, or other condition that decreases resistance to infection

Prevention

Folliculitis can be prevented by following the following recommendations:

• Wash skin regularly, always using a clean towel and never sharing it
• Avoid friction or pressure on the skin, as can be caused by the use of heavy backpacks, helmets and tight clothing
• Avoid shaving or, if it cannot be avoided, do it very carefully; always using a clean, sharp blade, applying a generous amount of shaving lotion before shaving and shaving in the direction of hair growth, rinse with lukewarm water and apply moisturizing lotion when finished
• Use only clean Jacuzzis and swimming pools; when getting out of the water, take off your bathing suit and wash it, then shower with plenty of soap and warm water.

Our specialist indicated that, if the folliculitis is mild, it disappears in a few days with basic personal care and without leaving scars. On the other hand, if the infections are more severe or recurring they may need treatment with medication and if left untreated they can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.

Dr. Yaril Moreyra
Dermatologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma