Folliculitis is a skin condition that is characterized by the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on the skin and can be caused by excessive perspiration, tight clothing, shaving, acne, and open wounds.
The symptoms of folliculitis are red skin, itching, and blisters which can lead to painful scars. There are different types of folliculitis and the treatment depends on the type of infection.
Hot tub folliculitis is caused by the Pseudomonas bacteria. It thrives in hot and humid environments. Topical creams like Bacitracin with Polymyxin B are used to treat folliculitis and to prevent itching.
Barber's itch is a bacterial type of folliculitis. It can be caused by improper hygiene like using dirty razors, shaving brushes, and towels. Oral antibiotics are prescribed for the treatment of this type of folliculitis.
Tinea barbae (ringworm) is a fungal folliculitis infection. It is cured by applying an antifungal cream. The infected area should be thoroughly cleansed with soap and water. A disinfectant preparation containing Chlorhexidine or Povidone iodine is effective.
Herpetic folliculitis usually clears up by itself. Generally the physician prescribes an antiviral medication to treat this condition.
Gram-negative folliculitis and viral folliculitis are two other types of folliculitis.
Folliculitis sometimes presents itself as painful lesions on the genitals. These lesions can be in the form of boils or blisters. Genital folliculitis can be treated with antibiotics.
Medical Breakthroughs
There have been medical breakthroughs in the treatment of folliculitis. Scalp folliculitis infection can be treated by using a shampoo with juniper oil. Other discoveries include salicylic acid and cade oil scalp cream.
A lotion with aloe vera can be used as a treatment for scalp folliculitis. Scalp folliculitis can also be treated with glycerin lotion. Tomato juice helps reduce sebum levels in the scalp.
The latest treatment for folliculitis is Laser light therapy. It is used to destroy hair follicles and reduce scarring.
Hot, moist compresses promote drainage of extensive folliculitis. In severe cases, carbuncle antibiotics are prescribed which prevent the spread of infection.
Herbs like Turmeric, Tea tree oil, and Apple cider vinegar have been beneficial in treating folliculitis.
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