Folliculitis will usually go away on its own within a few days, but if the folliculitis is severe, you may need to take oral or topical antibiotics. This will help to kill any bacteria that may be causing folliculitis.
A common reaction to waxing that occurs after you have removed your hair is folliculitis [1]. If the hair follicle is injured or damaged during the hair removal, it becomes vulnerable to bacterias like staph bacteria. The bacteria infect the hair follicles and lead to folliculitis.
An ingrown hair may appear about a week after waxing. Ingrown hairs occur when the hair grows and reinserts itself into the hair follicle. Ingrown hairs can cause itchy and sometimes painful bumps that often look like pimples on the skin. Without treatment, ingrown hairs can become infected.
Follicles are the openings in the skin where the hair grows (Picture 1). The rash appears as small red bumps or pus bumps that can itch or be mildly painful. Folliculitis is common on the buttocks, arms and legs - especially the thighs. Most improve in 7 to 10 days.
Friction caused by wearing tighten clothes can contribute to the development of folliculitis after body or bikini waxing. Pseudofolliculitis - bumps that develop a week or more after waxing, aka ingrowns. Ingrown hair occurs when the removed hair regrows and curls back into the skin.
Sometimes, when Malassezia gets into the hair follicles, it can cause an itchy condition that looks like an acne breakout. It usually occurs on the upper chest and back. This form of folliculitis is made worse (aggravated) by sweat.
To avoid those red bumps along the bikini line, face, neck or legs, ALWAYS exfoliate. Exfoliation lifts dead skin cells and impurities to unclog pores and helps prevent ingrown hairs.
Mild folliculitis will likely heal without scarring in a few days with basic self-care. More-serious or repeat infections may need prescription medicine. Left untreated, severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring. Certain types of folliculitis are known as hot tub rash and barber's itch.
It is common to develop folliculitis after hair removal, like waxing, which looks like small red bumps or pimples around hair follicles. Folliculitis occurs when hair follicles are damaged and infected by bacteria.
Will hair grow back after having folliculitis decalvans? Unfortunately, hair loss from folliculitis decalvans is permanent. If you notice symptoms, seeking treatment right away may help you minimize hair loss. Folliculitis decalvans causes bald patches and red, crusty pustules to form on the scalp.
Treatment of Folliculitis
Because most folliculitis is caused by S. aureus, clindamycin 1% lotion or gel may be applied topically 2 times a day for 7 to 10 days. Alternatively, benzoyl peroxide 5% wash may be used when showering for 5 to 7 days.
The bacterial or fungal infection mostly causes inflammation of hair follicles, which is referred to as folliculitis. It generally resolves within seven to ten days. Following home remedies like warm compresses, over-the-counter lotions, and creams heal the folliculitis quickly.
Folliculitis: Folliculitis is a common waxing reaction that results from the hair follicle getting damaged or injured during the process of hair removal, which then leaves the skin vulnerable to bacteria buildup. This then causes a rash or inflammation that usually recedes after a couple of days.
Tea tree oil, neem oil, geranium oil, grapefruit seed oil are very effective in treating folliculitis. Tea tree oil can be added to your shampoo, lotion or body wash. Rub it gently onto the affected area and let it sit. Before using it do a patch test to make sure there are no adverse reactions.
It may be helpful to use a moisturiser (emollient) which contains an antibacterial agent - for example, Dermol® cream or lotion or Emulsiderm®. This will improve the condition of the skin and soothe it. It may help the folliculitis to clear more quickly and reduce the risk of it becoming worse.
Mild folliculitis usually heals on its own in about 2 weeks. You can take care of yourself at home with: A warm compress. This may ease itching and help healing.
Folliculitis looks like a mosquito bite or raised bump. Vaginal folliculitis caused by ingrown hairs may look like a small splinter under the skin or a raised bump with a dark spot or line (this is the trapped hair).
Warm Saltwater Compresses
Folliculitis can frequently generate hot swelling and irritation. A warm compress with a clean hand towel soaked and strained in saltwater can kill off topical bacteria and fungus and help the irritated skin relax, providing relief.
Other organisms on our skin can also cause an infection. Also called pseudo folliculitis or razor bumps, men often see these on the beard area when they shave. You can damage your hair follicles by: Touching or rubbing your skin frequently.