Do I Have Folliculitis?

Do you have an acne-like breakout, in which each spot have a red ring around it?

Do you have clusters of small red bumps or white-headed pimples that develop around hair follicles?

Do you have pus-filled blisters that break open and crust over?

Do you have itchy and burning skin?

Do you have painful and tender skin?

Do you have a large swollen bump or mass?

Do you have a rash (reddened skin area)?

Have you been in a hot tub or a heated swimming pool a day or two before you noticed your skin rash?

Do you have a history of dermatitis?

Does your work or a hobby expose your hands to heat and moisture, such as from wearing rubber gloves?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have folliculitis. Folliculitis is a common skin condition characterized by inflammation of the hair follicles. Hair follicles are small pockets in the skin from which each hair grows. They appear everywhere on the body, except on the lips, palms and soles. Hair follicles are most densely distributed on your scalp. In most cases, folliculitis is caused by bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), but a viral or fungal infection can also be the cause of this condition. Folliculitis can be caused by an inflammation from ingrown hairs as well. Men with curly hair who shaves are prone to folliculitis.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have folliculitis. Folliculitis is a skin disorder in which hair follicles become inflamed and infected. A hair follicle is a tiny cavity in your skin from which your hair grows. Folliculitis is a harmless condition, but it can be very uncomfortable and embarrassing. People with this condition usually have small red bumps or white-headed pimples around the follicles on their faces, arms, legs, chest, back, buttocks, or genitals. Folliculitis can affect one or more follicles, and can be short-lived or persistent. Diagnosis is based on physical examination and swabbing of infected skin or hair.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have folliculitis. Folliculitis is a medical term for a group of skin conditions characterized by inflamed hair follicles. There are two main types of folliculitis: superficial and deep. The superficial type refers to an inflammation in the upper part of the hair follicle and the skin next to it. Deep folliculitis involves deeper parts of the follicle and sometimes can affect the entire hair follicle. Certain forms of folliculitis are known as barber's itch and hot tub rash. Treatment includes self-care measures, medications, light therapy, lancing and interventions, such as laser hair removal.