Folliculitis is a skin condition that can affect just about anywhere on the skin area, although it mostly develops on the legs, chest and back. It appears as an inflammation of the skin following an infection of the hair follicles. Typically, this is caused by a form of fungus or bacteria, with the most common infection caused by
Staphylococcus.
Many people think that
folliculitis happens as a result of ill health or dirtiness, but this is untrue. In fact, it is possible for very fit and healthy people to suffer from the complaint. Although the cause is a fungal or bacterial infection, those people who shower often and consider themselves relatively clean, can still suffer. The clear conclusion that can be drawn from this fact is that cleanliness does not necessarily prevent
folliculitis.
Although the condition is relatively minor, the overall reaction of sufferers is one of general discomfort, with the associated itching and scratching possibly leading to scarring if left untreated. Many sufferers have feelings of embarrassment and low
self-esteem, aspects of the condition that should never be underestimated and should be handled with appropriate sympathy.
The traditional
cause of folliculitis is some form of irritation of the hair follicles. Shaving or the wearing of tight clothing, which causes friction or uses abrasive action, are examples of sources of irritation that agitate the follicles, leading to infection and increased irritation. Heat can often aggravate the problem in some areas of the body such as the groin.
The typical diagnosis preocedure is a simple physical examination by a doctor.
Folliculitis symptoms may result in an uncomfortable, itchy feeling, appearing as a rash or red spots. These spots can become very tender, becoming similar in appearance to pimples with white heads. In many cases, these will seep pus, crust over and form a yellow scab.
Standard
folliculitis treatments will not totally eliminate the problem, but only tackle the symptoms in order to provide relief. The particular type of treatment given will depend on whether the infection is
fungal folliculitis or
bacterial folliculitis.
Prescription drugs commonly used, with good results, for
bacterial folliculitis treatment include antibiotic ointments and creams that contain
mupirocin or
neomycin.
Fungal folliculitis treatment will probably consist of an anti-fungal cream containing
econozole nitrate. Other drugs can be taken orally, but the topical creams are usually preferred because they tend to provide quicker results.
A more general, tried and tested treatment may include the application of a warm, damp compress to soften the affected area which assists the drainage of the follicles. A topical antiseptic cream or treatment should also be applied in order to clean and purify the follicles.
However these are not the only
folliculitis treatment options available. There are many instances of sufferers curing their condition for good, by choosing a more natural approach to their
folliculitis treatment, eliminating the need for drugs.
Which would you prefer?
