With an appearance similar to that of a pimple, this type of problem can appear in several areas of the body.
Folliculitis is a problem that can affect anyone, appear in different areas of the body and have different causes. More specifically, it happens in the hair follicle, that is, the structure in which hair is born and grows.
“It is a skin infection that occurs in the hair follicles, either by bacteria or fungi. But it can also be caused by viruses and the inflammation of ingrown hairs,” explains Dr. Geisa Costa, specialist in dermatology and clinical director and founder of the Art Beauty Center.
most common symptoms
The symptoms of folliculitis can vary according to the type. Generally speaking, according to Dr. Geisa Costa, this infection can have balls (similar to pimples) with white tips (with pus, inflamed) around the hair. Including these balls can itch and hurt.
types of folliculitis
Folliculitis can be divided into superficial and deep. As explained by Dr. Luann Lôbo, dermatologist and full member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, the superficial only affects the upper structures of the hair follicle.
“We noticed redness on the skin around the follicle, with a central yellow dot, resembling a pimple. There may also be local pain or itching. Milder cases respond well to local compresses, general hygiene measures and the use of ointments and creams prescribed by the dermatologist”, explains the dermatologist.
more severe forms
Deep folliculitis is a slightly more serious case, as it affects more deep of the skin and can even form so-called boils. “We noticed a more extensive area of redness around the lesion, with a hardened nodule in the center, containing pus. Local symptoms also occur, such as pain and itching, in addition to edema (swelling)”, he explains.
Still according to the dermatologist, deep folliculitis can cause definitive destruction of the follicle and form a scar. “Some cases require the use of oral medications (antibiotics and corticosteroids, for example), and surgical procedures, such as drainage of the lesion,” he adds.
What causes folliculitis?
Folliculitis can be caused by several factors. According to Dr. Luann Lôbo, the most common causes are: “depilation, especially the most traumatic ones, with a blade or wax; wearing very tight clothes that accumulate moisture on the skin; hyperhidrosis (excess sweating); obesity and seborrheic dermatitis.”
Dr. Geisa Costa adds that this problem usually affects the structure of the hair. “Therefore, it can appear anywhere on the body, with the exception of the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. It is more found in the legs, groin, arms, face (beard), armpits, buttocks and even in the scalp.”
Differences between folliculitis and acne
As in some cases folliculitis presents red balls and, sometimes, the yellowish center, some people tend to mistake it for acne. However, Dr. Geisa Costa explains that folliculitis usually appears in regions of the body with a lot of hair.
Furthermore, according to Dr. Luann Lôbo, “acne typically presents lesions with a more varied presentation, and usually includes ‘comedones’ in its clinical picture, unlike what happens in cases of folliculitis.”
But, as with pimples, you shouldn’t squeeze the balls. In addition to the risk of worsening symptoms, folliculitis can also leave scars. In any case, the ideal is to consult a dermatologist, as he is the professional who will be able to correctly make this differentiation and indicate the most appropriate treatment.
forms of treatment
The forms of treatment for folliculitis can be varied, as it will depend on the type of infection and symptoms presented. Dr. Geisa Costa explains that topical or oral medication (antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic), new habits, such as taking a break from waxing or laser hair removal and even draining the furuncle, can be indicated by the dermatologist.
When to see a dermatologist
According to Dr. Luann Lôbo, it is recommended to see a doctor when folliculitis does not improve with the use of compresses or general hygiene measures. “Frames with more extensive, more numerous lesions, and which generate very uncomfortable symptoms, should also be evaluated by the doctor”, he explains.
Dr. Geisa Costa points out that the clinical evaluation is important because the doctor can ask for tests to complement the diagnosis. “In some cases, folliculitis is recurrent and may require frequent treatment,” she warns.
How to avoid folliculitis
To avoid the emergence of folliculitis, some simple measures can be inserted in everyday life. Dermatologists Dr. Geisa Costa and Dr. Luann Lôbo list some of them:
- If you tend to have folliculitis, the ideal is to look for a definitive method of hair removal;
- If it is not possible to opt for a definitive method, it is important to hydrate and clean the skin well before and after waxing. The use of post-depilation creams or lotions is also recommended;
- Always use new, clean appliances/blades. Also, run the razor along the skin in the direction of hair growth. Also use shaving gels that favor proper sliding of the blade;
- Avoid wearing very tight or tight clothes;
- Avoid keeping wet clothes in contact with the skin for a long time;
- If you have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), see a dermatologist for proper treatment;
- Dry the skin very well after bathing;
- Keep skin hydratedespecially in winter, as hot baths help to dry it out.
In addition to the care listed, it is also recommended to visit a dermatologist regularly. That way, you can make your skin less prone to dermatological problems.
Source: Maxima
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