Folliculitis is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles, appearing as red, itchy, pus-filled bumps around hair shafts, often caused by bacteria, fungi, or irritation from hair removal. Treatments include prescription topical or oral antibiotics, antifungals, or other medications depending on the specific cause.
There are two types of folliculitis:
- Superficial Folliculitis affects the upper area of the hair follicle and may cause red, inflamed skin, small clusters of red bumps, blisters that break open and crust over and/or itchiness and tenderness. When the infection occurs in men’s beards, it is called Barber’s Itch.. When it is caused by a fungal infection, it is known as Tinea Barbae (ringworm).
- Deep Folliculitis affects the entire follicle from its deepest parts under the skin to the surface of the skin. This less-common form of folliculitis is seen in people who are undergoing chronic acne antibiotic treatment, people with HIV or people with boils and carbuncles.
Generally, folliculitis is treated with anti-fungal medications.