### What is Folliculitis? Folliculitis is a common skin condition where hair follicles become inflamed due to bacteria or blockages. It can occur anywhere on the body that has hair, but is most common on the neck, thighs, buttocks, and armpits. ### Causes and Risk Factors Folliculitis is often caused by bacteria, particularly staphylococcus (staph), but can also be triggered by fungi, yeast, or viruses. Risk factors include shaving, wearing tight clothing, having a high body weight, diabetes, prolonged antibiotic use, and a weakened immune system. ### Symptoms Symptoms of folliculitis include red, swollen bumps that may be itchy or painful. These bumps can appear anywhere on the body with hair follicles. ### Types of Folliculitis - **Bacterial Folliculitis**: Itchy, white bumps filled with pus caused by bacterial infection. - **Hot Tub Folliculitis**: Rash of round, itchy bumps from swimming in poorly maintained hot tubs or pools. - **Pityrosporum Folliculitis**: Itchy, pus-filled pimples caused by yeast infection, often on the upper body. - **Folliculitis Decalvans**: Rare type causing long-term inflammation and hair loss on the scalp. - **Malassezia Folliculitis**: Itchy bumps caused by an overgrowth of yeast, common in oily skin. - **Eosinophilic Folliculitis**: Affects people with weakened immune systems, causing itchy, pus-filled bumps. - **Razor Bumps**: Dark bumps caused by ingrown hairs from shaving. ### Treatment Mild cases of folliculitis often clear up with self-care, such as warm compresses and over-the-counter antibacterial creams. For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antifungal medications, or steroid creams. In some cases, draining the infected follicle or laser hair removal may be recommended. ### Prevention To prevent folliculitis, avoid shaving for a few months or use an electric razor. Limit the use of oily skin products and wear loose-fitting clothing. ### When to See a Doctor See a doctor if your folliculitis doesn't improve with self-care, if it recurs frequently, or if you have severe symptoms. Early treatment can prevent complications like scarring or the spread of infection. ### Conclusion Folliculitis is usually a minor condition that clears up with proper care. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments can help you manage and prevent this common skin issue.