Folliculitis

This is the name for an inflamed hair follicle, resulting in a tender, red, often pustular spot. It can be superficial or deep, and can affect anywhere that has hair.

N.B. Acne is a type of folliculitis!

It can be caused by:

• Infection - Bacterial (most commonly Staph. aureus), viral, fungal, parasitic

• Irritation - Occurs as hairs regrow after shaving, waxing, or plucking

  • Avoided by using a gentle hair removal method, such as an electric razor/using a lot of shaving gel with a blade shaver.

• Occlusion

  • Avoided by using fragrance- and oil-free products as they’re less likely to cause occlusion

    
    

• Skin diseases