Folliculitis
Folliculitis is a common skin condition involving inflammation of the hair follicles.
It can affect any hair-bearing area of the body, including the scalp, beard area, chest, back and limbs.
The condition may present as small red bumps or pustules and can be caused by infection, irritation or ingrown hairs.
At The London Skin and Hair Clinic, Consultant Dermatologists assess folliculitis to identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Patients seeking dermatology advice in London can access specialist care.
Folliculitis is inflammation around the hair follicles on the scalp, beard area or the body
Folliculitis is caused by bacterial infection, a fungal infection, inflammation or ingrown hairs
Treatment options include antibacterial agents, anti-fungal agents or anti-inflammatory treatments
Where staphylococcus aureus is identified, an ointment for the nostrils may be prescribed
What causes Folliculitis?
Folliculitis can have several different causes, and identifying the underlying trigger is key to effective treatment.
Common causes include:
- bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus
- fungal or yeast infections
- ingrown hairs, particularly in shaved areas
- irritation or friction from clothing or shaving
- inflammatory skin conditions
In some cases, bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus may be carried in areas like the nasal passages, leading to recurrent infection.
Who is at risk of Folliculitis?
Folliculitis can affect anyone but is more common in:
- individuals who shave regularly (especially beard area)
- people with oily or acne-prone skin
- those exposed to friction from tight clothing
- individuals with weakened immune systems
Recurrent cases may occur where there is persistent bacterial colonisation.
What are the symptoms of Folliculitis?
Folliculitis typically presents as inflamed hair follicles.
Symptoms may include:
- small red bumps or pus-filled spots (pustules)
- redness around hair follicles
- itching, tenderness or soreness
- clusters of spots in affected areas
In areas such as the beard, lesions may be aggravated by shaving, which can lead to:
- bleeding
- spread of infection to nearby follicles
Images of Folliculitis
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How is Folliculitis diagnosed?
A dermatologist will diagnose folliculitis through clinical examination of the skin.
This may include:
- assessing the appearance and distribution of lesions
- reviewing medical history and potential triggers
In some cases, a swab of the affected area may be taken to:
- identify bacterial or fungal infection
- guide targeted treatment
How is Folliculitis treated and managed?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the folliculitis.
Management options may include:
- topical or oral antibiotics for bacterial infection
- antifungal treatments where yeast or fungal infection is present
- anti-inflammatory treatments to reduce irritation
Where Staphylococcus aureus is identified, treatment may also include:
- targeted therapy to reduce bacterial carriage (for example, nasal ointments)
In addition to medical treatment, practical measures such as modifying shaving techniques, reducing friction and maintaining good skin hygiene can help prevent recurrence.
A dermatologist will tailor treatment based on the cause, severity and pattern of the condition.