Folliculitis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles. Hair follicles are tiny holes in the skin where hair grows. Inflammation of this follicle is a type of skin disease that is commonly found.
There are several types of folliculitis, namely:
- Pseudomonas folliculitis. This type is often experienced by people who often soak in warm water. Usually, inflammation occurs due to bacteria found in less clean water.
- Gram negative folliculitis. This inflammation occurs due to the use of antibiotics in the long term which is usually done to treat acne.
- False folliculitis. Also known as pseudo-folliculitis. It looks similar to folliculitis in that it is an infection caused by ingrown hair. But in false folliculitis, there is no pus.
- Chronic folliculitis or sycosis barbae . This type of folliculitis often appears in areas where beards grow.
Symptom
Folliculitis looks similar to acne, namely the presence of small, round, red or yellowish bumps due to the presence of pus. This inflammation is only found in areas of the body where hair grows. Commonly affected areas are the arms, legs, buttocks, and armpits.
Reason
Folliculitis can be caused by a bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic infection. However, the most common are infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Bacteria usually enter through damaged follicles and eventually trigger an infection.
Folliculitis can also result from non-infectious causes – such as hair follicle trauma, friction, inflammation, excessive sweating, and blockages. In addition, folliculitis can also occur in people who are prone to infection. For example in those who suffer from a decrease in the immune system due to HIV.
In addition, folliculitis that arises due to non-infectious causes can also occur due to the habit of soaking in warm water using unclean water, shaving which is prone to causing damage to hair follicles, or long-term consumption of antibiotics to treat acne problems.
Diagnosis
Generally, folliculitis can be diagnosed through a medical interview process between the doctor and the sufferer regarding the symptoms that are felt. In addition, the doctor will also carry out a physical examination by looking at areas that show signs of interference.
Treatment
Folliculitis can be treated according to the severity. In mild cases, folliculitis usually heals on its own without requiring special treatment. Complaints will disappear by itself in about one week.
Usually, all it takes is applying a hot compress to the affected area. If necessary, it can also be followed by using topical antibiotics (applied to the skin).
Whereas in cases of deep folliculitis, sometimes an incision (surgery) and drainage (pus removing) is needed in the disturbed area.
Prevention
To avoid folliculitis, there are several things you can do, such as:
- Make it a habit to wash your hands and feet to keep your skin clean after traveling or doing activities.
- If necessary, use antiseptic soap when bathing.
- The use of antiseptic soap can indeed cause dry skin. Try using a moisturizer after bathing.
- Shave hair in the direction of growth.
- Avoid sharing towels, clothes or razors.
- Wash towels, clothes, and bed sheets in hot water or with an adequate amount of detergent.
- Avoid sharing hot tubs, such as in public baths.