Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles. The inflammation is usually caused by an infection. Each hair on your body grows out of a tiny pouch called a follicle. You can have folliculitis on any part of your body that has hair.

Symptoms include pimple-like bumps. These may be reddish or have pus in them. The bumps can be tender and may itch. You can have folliculitis on any part of your body with hair. This includes the head, buttocks, and trunk. Depending on what caused the rash, you might have a mild fever and nausea.

Your doctor will check your skin and ask about your health and activities. Testing a sample of the fluid in the bumps can help your doctor learn what is causing the infection.

Mild folliculitis usually heals on its own in about 2 weeks. If it doesn't, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or another medicine you put on your skin. If the folliculitis is from shaving, you may need to change how you shave.

• To help with itching or pain, put a warm, moist cloth (like a clean washcloth) on the area for 5 to 10 minutes, 3 to 6 times a day.
• Do not share your towel, washcloth, or razor.
• If the condition is caused by shaving, try to avoid shaving the area for a few weeks. Or use shaving cream or gel and always shave in the direction that the hair grows. Try using an electric razor that doesn't shave so close.
• Wear loose clothing, especially if it's hot or humid outside. Change your clothes if they get sweaty.
• Take your medicine exactly as prescribed. If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.