Inflammation of the hair follicle in the groin treatment. Folliculitis - causes, diagnosis and treatment

In children and adults, inflammation of the hair follicle is common. Therefore, they want to know why this happens, when it is possible to self-treat, and when it is necessary to see a doctor.

Folliculitis - an infectious inflammation of the follicle, appears in the places of hair growth on the legs, back and other parts of the body. It always gives inflammatory purulent processes, and can affect the follicle both superficially and deeply, forming a core.

Inflammation of the hair follicles can appear for various reasons, but most often it appears when personal hygiene is not observed. The infection can penetrate the follicle with the smallest, minor skin injuries, namely:

Improperly applied compress, diaper rash in the folds of the skin, taking medications that reduce the protective functions of the body, follicles can become inflamed.

Causes of inflammation

  • contamination of the skin;
  • microtrauma with infection;
  • tight synthetic clothing and scuffs;
  • increased sweating;
  • incorrect application of a compress;
  • climatic conditions and hypothermia.

All of these causes can cause a severe form of the disease that deeply affects the skin. Sometimes internal factors are added to them, such as:

  • anemia;
  • diabetes;
  • unbalanced diet;
  • immunodeficiency and HIV infection;
  • long-term use of immunosuppressants.

Any diseases, including chronic ones, always depress the immune system, causing folliculitis. It is important to follow the rules of hygiene, eat right and monitor your health.

Symptoms of folliculitis

After infection, inflammation occurs, causing redness and infiltration in the follicle area, pain and itching appear. The size of the boil can reach from 2 to 10 mm and directly depends on the depth of the lesion. It is impossible to squeeze out such a boil on your own due to the rapid spread of the infection.

If the disease is superficial, a bag of pus collects around the hair, which dries quickly without causing pain. If the boil is large with a deep shaft, many painful nodules form on it with a center in the follicle and an abscess in the upper part around the hair. It can reach up to 100 mm in size, such ripen slowly.

After a week or two, the pus breaks out, forming a yellowish crust on the skin. A severe form of folliculitis leaves a scar or pigmentation, a mild one does not.

Multiple inflammation of the hair follicles often affects men, and is provoked by the profession, appearing in certain areas of skin contamination. And it is also caused by irritations, various scuffs, or after shaving.

Types of folliculitis

There are several of them, namely:

  • staphylococcal folliculitis;
  • pseudomonadic;
  • syphilitic;
  • gonorrheal;
  • candidal;
  • dermatophytosis;
  • herpetic;
  • Bockhart impetigo.

Staphylococcal folliculitis often affects the hair follicles of bristly hair - the chin, cheekbones, above the lips. "Sycosis" (a deep skin lesion in men) appears when the infection enters during shaving. Often the disease becomes chronic, worsens, becomes resistant to drugs. "Sycosis" is usually plural. In addition to the face, it can also occur on other parts of the body.

Pseudomonas folliculitis is an acute skin infection that develops 5 hours after exposure to contaminated water. It can affect patients who are currently undergoing antibiotic treatment for acne. After bathing, the rash on the face and trunk intensifies. Several urticarial red foci appear, they itch, sometimes give a temperature. This form of the disease often affects teenagers because children like to stay in the water for a long time.

Syphilitic is caused by a relapse of the disease, which is accompanied by non-scarring alopecia in the chin, mouth, and head.

Gonorrheal - appears from the advanced form of gonorrhea. It is localized on the foreskin in men, as well as on the skin of the perineum in women.

Candidiasis appears after tight bandages, usually in bedridden patients with fever.

Dermatophytosis is a lesion of the upper layer of the skin, and over time, inflammation is introduced into the hair shaft. The background for its appearance is often ringworm, as well as scab.

Herpetic affects the follicles of bristly hair in men. It is characterized by the formation of bubbles.

Bockhart's impetigo affects softened skin, causing inflammation of the hair follicle in the groin with excessive sweating, or after warm compresses.

Diagnostics

The purpose of diagnosis is to determine the pathogen that caused the inflammation, as well as to identify concomitant diseases that can provoke folliculitis. Be sure to exclude them, especially giving similar symptoms. The more accurate the diagnosis, the better the treatment.

The doctor examines the focus of inflammation, makes dermatoscopy, which will make it possible to find out the depth of the lesion. For microscopy, the contents of the pustules are taken, bakposev is carried out, the presence of fungi and pale treponema is determined. The diagnosis of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is definitely needed, this will completely exclude gonorrhea and syphilis.

Folliculitis Treatment

Complex therapy will reduce inflammation, eliminate the spread of infection, accelerate maturation and rapid healing. Treatment includes:

  • local therapy;
  • antiseptics;
  • antibiotics;
  • antifungal drugs;
  • Acyclovir;
  • immunomodulators.

For the treatment of the initial stage of the disease, local therapy is used with the simplest medicines. If the boils are solitary, it is enough to wipe the affected areas with camphor or salicylic alcohol, you can also use brilliant green.

When the rashes are multiple, and the accumulation of pus is large, the doctor performs an autopsy of the papules. After this procedure, Ichthyol ointment is applied twice a day to relieve the inflammatory process.

For the treatment of severe forms, the doctor, individually for each patient, will select antibiotics based on the pathogen identified with the help of bakposev. To restore the protective functions of the body, immunomodulators are prescribed.

Ointment Acyclovir helps with herpetic folliculitis. If the disease is caused by fungi, antifungal drugs (Fluconazole, Terbinafil) and ointments are used. In all severe cases of the disease, the doctor prescribes antibiotics, which are used along with local treatment. With any kind of folliculitis must be fought until it disappears completely.

The initial stage is redness of the skin, moderate soreness, the formation of pustules. With progression, an infiltrate is formed around the lesion.

The skin around the inflamed follicle becomes yellowish, which is explained by the presence of pus. After removing the crust of the pustule, pus is released, red skin is visible.

The number of inflammations can vary from 1 to many, for example, when shaving under the armpit, most often a single inflammation is formed. Sometimes there is itching. With an extensive lesion, the lymph nodes increase.

Types of folliculitis and its causes

Also, the disease is classified as follows:

  • Staphylococcal. It is mainly found in men in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe chin and nasolabial triangle;
  • Candidiasis occurs under occlusive dressings, especially if corticosteroids are used, in bedridden and long-term fever. It is formed both on the legs and on other parts of the body;
  • Herpetic - similar to staphylococcal;
  • Acne syphilis. The rash is caused by syphilis. Eliminate by treating the underlying disease;
  • Pseudomonas. Occurs after taking a hot bath, where the water is not sufficiently chlorinated;
  • Gram-negative occurs after long-term treatment of acne with antibacterial drugs. Possible abscesses;
  • Caused by dermatophytes. It is observed mainly on the head;
  • Depilatory. Peculiar to men in hot countries. It is characterized by the fact that inflammation of the hair follicles is observed only on the legs;
  • Gonorrheal. Occurs very rarely. Occurs with gonorrhea at an advanced stage. Localized inflammation of the hair follicle in the groin, in the perineum;
  • Professional occurs in people of a certain profession, is associated with contact with the skin of irritants in the form of chemicals. Typically seen on the back of the hands and forearms;
  • Tick-borne occurs as a result of the bite of the insect of the same name;
  • Impetigo Bockhart. The cause of the occurrence is maceration of the skin, excessive sweating, so inflammation of the hair follicle is often noticeable under the armpit.

Treatment depends on the cause of the inflammation of the hair follicle.

In addition, additional provoking factors play a role, which also need to be eliminated:

  • Skin microtrauma;
  • Pollution of the skin;
  • Untimely or incorrect application of an occlusive dressing;
  • Climatic conditions (high humidity and temperature);
  • Wearing synthetic, tight-fitting clothing;
  • hypothermia;
  • Anemia;
  • Diabetes;
  • Pathology of the liver;
  • Unbalanced diet;
  • Treatment with immunosuppressants;
  • Local use of glucocorticosteroids;
  • Periodontal disease, gingivitis, caries;
  • Chronic tonsillitis and pharyngitis;
  • Obesity.

Complications of folliculitis

Usually this infectious disease is mild and does not pose a serious threat to life. But complications may develop. This happens in the absence of treatment, non-compliance with the rules of hygiene, a weak immune response of the body.

Common complications include furuncle leading to hydradentitis and lymphadenitis, carbuncle, abscess, follicular scarring and dermatophytosis. Isolated cases are accompanied by nephritis, meningitis and pneumonia.

How to treat inflammation of the hair follicle?

At the initial stage of the disease, it is sufficient to treat the pustules with suitable means. For this, camphor (2%) and salicylic alcohol (1-2%), a solution of brilliant green (2%) or methylene blue, fucorcin are suitable. Gels, creams and lotions of the Klerasil series are very popular now.

If the disease has affected the deeper layers of the skin and is accompanied by significant purulent accumulations, it is necessary to open the bubbles, remove their contents, and then treat with one of the listed remedies. It is recommended to apply ichthyol compresses twice a day.

If the disease has become chronic and relapses, serious drug therapy is necessary. In this case, antibiotics and drugs of the sulfonamide group are prescribed. Immunostimulating therapy is also shown.

When inflammation of the hair follicles is observed on the arms, legs, torso, it is impossible to squeeze the affected parts of the body and squeeze out the bubbles, as this increases the risk of developing a boil and even phlegmon.

The treatment with ultraviolet rays has proven itself well. The general course is 6-10 procedures. Sessions are scheduled every day or every other day. If folliculitis occurs against the background of diabetes mellitus, a corrective diet is prescribed to normalize carbohydrate metabolism and reduce the risk of recurrence of the disease.

Treatment of staphylococcal folliculitis involves the use of Muporcin ointment or similar, internal administration of cephalexin, dicloxacillin, erythromycin or methicillin. In severe cases of pseudomonas lesions, ciprofloxacin is prescribed. If the causative agent is gram-negative bacteria, topical benzoyl peroxide therapy is necessary.

With fungal infection, appropriate funds are needed, for internal use - terbinafine, fluconazole, intracanosole. Herpetic folliculitis should be treated with acyclovir.

An important role is given to traditional medicine recipes. Various decoctions, infusions, compresses based on viburnum, rosehip, chamomile, dandelion, prickly, bedstraw, woodruff, tartar and burdock are widely used.

Inflammation of the hair follicle in the vast majority of cases has a favorable prognosis. In severe cases and damage to the deep layers of the skin, pigmentation may remain after removal of the crust. Complications of folliculitis are rare and are successfully treated with modern methods.

Inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs

Inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs, or as it is also called folliculitis, is the process of a purulent disease. The main causes of the appearance of this disease is staphylococcus aureus, it is he who is the causative agent of the formation of folliculitis. Inflammation occurs gradually, from the beginning nodules form on the legs, which have a slight swelling and redness, then gradually pus appears in them over several days. Most often, folliculitis is formed in men because, as you know, their hairline on their legs is larger and thicker than in women.

Inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs occurs for several reasons. The main reason is non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene. Very often, folliculitis occurs in people who use other people's bath accessories and visit pools and saunas. Also, the disease can occur as a result of taking medications that are designed to destroy and treat various types of acne. It is not uncommon for inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs to occur due to the appearance of cracks, wounds, burns, and everything that damages the structure of the skin.

To be cured of folliculitis, you should consult a dermatologist, only a doctor can prescribe and prescribe the correct, and most importantly effective treatment. For mild illness, antibacterial soap or cream may help. They should thoroughly wash the affected areas of the skin. If the inflammation is too large, but their treatment will be long. Your doctor will most likely prescribe a course of antibiotics for you. In severe cases of the disease, the patient is placed on inpatient treatment, where he will undergo a course of complex therapy. It should also be remembered that it is impossible to pierce and squeeze out the formed pus, you can not only harm your health, but also introduce an infection that will quickly spread throughout the body, in which case the treatment will be long and painful. Also, at the site of the squeezed out folliculitis, phlegmon and boils can form.

In order to prevent the formation of inflammation of the hair follicles, you must follow a few rules. Always use clean personal hygiene items, do not wear synthetic and tight underwear and clothing. Also, after visiting the sauna or swimming pool, it is recommended to take a warm shower and use antibacterial soap. In hot weather, you should take a cool bath as often as possible, so you protect yourself and your body from bacteria.

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Do not self-medicate! Be sure to see a doctor!

A pimple is not a pimple, a mole is not a mole! How to understand the types of acne?

Pimples, or acne vulgaris (acne) develop against the background of seborrhea, that is, excessive secretion of sebum with altered properties. They occur in areas of the skin that are richest in sebaceous glands. On average, there are 900 glands per 1 cm 2 of the skin of the face, upper back and chest, while in other areas their number does not exceed 100.

The reasons for the formation of acne include not only excessive secretion of the sebaceous glands, but also hormonal imbalance, infection of the skin with bacteria, pathology of the hair follicle (for example, ingrown hairs). Most often this condition occurs in adolescents, but adults often face this problem. Acne is one of the most common skin diseases.

The peak incidence occurs between the ages of 13 and 18, and in girls, acne appears earlier, but disappears faster. In young people, acne can be severe, causing a significant cosmetic defect and impairing the quality of life, primarily due to psychological problems. In men, the pathology acquires a chronic course and sometimes turns into late acne.

The first signs are increased secretion of sebum (seborrhea) and microcomedones. It is worth contacting a doctor already during this period in order to prevent the development of severe forms of the disease.

The main types of acne

Depending on the external manifestations, the following types of acne are distinguished:

  • comedones;
  • papular;
  • pustular;
  • inductive;
  • abscessing, or festering indurative;
  • phlegmonous;
  • drain;
  • conglobate.

The choice of methods of treatment of inflammatory processes of the skin depends on their severity. In mild cases, home remedies are sufficient. With a large number of rashes, their deep and merging forms, the help of a dermatologist is necessary.

The formation of different types of acne occurs in stages. Initially, this is a blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands due to increased secretion of sebum due to cell hypersensitivity to sex hormones. This creates a breeding ground for microorganisms, in particular Propionibacterium acnes. Reproducing, they break down fat with the formation of fatty acids that damage the skin surface. As a result of chemical irritation, an inflammatory process is formed.

Comedones

The most common type of acne, localization mainly on the face. They form in the hair follicle, which becomes clogged with dead skin cells and excess sebum. Comedones turn into small bumps (papules) with white or black dots in the center.

This type of acne can cause certain foods - rich in animal fat, fried, spicy, salty. They are called comedogenic.

"Black dots"

Black plugs on the surface of the papules that open onto the skin are filled with excess fat and skin cells. Their color is due not to the accumulation of dirt, but to the incorrect reflection of light rays from clogged hair follicles, as well as a change in the color of sebum upon contact with air.

Sometimes the appearance of pathology is associated with the improper use of cosmetics based on oils and moisturizing ingredients. Pollution and high humidity of the environment matters. In addition, blackheads can appear due to the excessive use of soaps and other cleansers. Dry skin leads to increased sebum production and clogged pores.

Open comedones often form on the forehead, chin, and nose. Usually, over-the-counter acne medications are enough to treat them.

"White Heads"

If the excretory duct of the sebaceous gland and the hair follicle is completely clogged, pimples with white purulent heads appear - closed comedones. Their contents do not reach the surface of the skin, accumulating under its upper layer and causing the formation of a bubble. Since sebum does not come into contact with air, its darkening does not occur. With such acne, you can also fight with the help of cosmetics.

Non-inflamed comedones are not accompanied by redness and swelling of the skin. They respond quite well to the use of salicylic acid. This substance exfoliates dead cells, opening an outlet for excess sebum. Salicylic acid is part of special lotions, tonics and moisturizers.

Pimples with white heads are harder to treat. To eliminate them, in addition to salicylic acid, retinoids are used, in particular, Differin.

Papular

When inflamed, comedones turn into papular acne. The process is associated with the reproduction in the sebaceous glands of pathogenic bacteria that cause inflammation and the formation of pus. Small soft pink or red bumps form on the skin surface. The skin around them is often slightly hyperemic. These pimples may be sensitive to touch and may be accompanied by slight itching. Squeezing out the contents enhances the inflammatory process and further leads to the formation of scars.

A large number of papules is a sign of moderate to severe acne and requires treatment by a dermatologist. Inflammatory acne is less treatable than comedones. To eliminate them, agents based on benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics locally and orally, isotretinoin preparations are used.

Pustular

These are pustules, often developing from comedones with white heads. A red inflamed rim appears around the focus. The pathological formation itself is filled with white or yellow pus. It can have an irregular shape, pustular acne often merges with each other and protrudes above the surface of the skin. Usually the appearance of pustular elements is not associated with severe bacterial infection.

Avoid popping pimples that result in dark spots (hyperpigmentation) or scarring on the skin.

Inductive, or nodal

A type of subcutaneous pimple that looks like large, painful bumps or nodules. They appear with a complete blockage of the duct of the sebaceous gland, irritation and inflammation of the surrounding skin tissues.

To the touch, these are dense formations. Acne penetrates deep into skin structures and is often painful. When such formations appear, the help of a doctor is necessary. Usually, medical treatment with Isotretinoin preparations for internal use for six months is sufficient.

Abscessing

With suppuration of indurative acne due to the multiplication of pathogenic bacteria, cystic formations are formed - abscessing acne. They are filled with purulent contents and resemble boils. The formations are painful, usually soft to the touch, after they are opened, deep atrophic scars form.

The course of the disease is recurrent. The help of a dermatologist is needed, and consultation of other specialists is often required, for example, an endocrinologist or an immunologist. Treatment is with Isotretinoin. An abscess can be removed surgically.

Nodular and abscessed acne often appear with a hereditary predisposition. They can be observed simultaneously with comedones, occur with the progression of papular or pustular forms, and also combine into nodular abscess formations.

Phlegmonous

They appear when inflammation penetrates into the deep layers of the skin, and the smallest cavities filled with purulent contents are formed. On the surface of the skin, this is manifested by the appearance of widespread tuberosity. Gradually, phlegmonous cavities merge into large foci, forming nodes of a red-violet hue.

Phlegmonous formations gradually break through and purulent contents, often mixed with blood, come out through several holes. The course of the disease is long, it is very difficult to treat.

Conglobate

This is one of the most severe forms of acne. Acne conglobata often appear on the back, neck, chest, and buttocks. They are many inflamed follicles that merge with neighboring areas of inflammation.

Such acne appears on the body of an adult, usually in men. They may be associated with the use of testosterone or anabolic steroids. Their other name is fulminant. The onset of the disease can proceed as arthritis, followed by abundant formation of acne throughout the body. For adequate treatment of the condition, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist.

Conglobate acne can accompany a genetic disease - Klinefelter's syndrome (XXY trisomy). In this case, they can occur anywhere on the body above the knees. Pathology is accompanied by purulent lesions of the joints and kidneys.

Severity and principles of treatment

What acne and in what quantity are observed with different severity of acne:

  • mild degree: less than 20 blackheads or whiteheads, less than 15 papules or pustules, and the total number of acne is not more than 30;
  • moderate severity: from 20 to 100 comedones, up to 50 inflamed acne, or a total number of foci up to 125;
  • severe degree: there are several abscessing acne of a dark red or purple hue.

How to deal with them?

With a mild degree, it is enough to use special cosmetic lotions for 2 months. The average severity of the lesion requires the appointment of medications. Treatment lasts for several weeks, and often in the first time after its onset, the severity of acne even intensifies.

In the severe stage, the main task is to reduce inflammation and scarring. The doctor may prescribe a variety of medications and physiotherapy that improve the appearance of the skin and the condition of the sebaceous glands.

Topical therapy is used to treat different types of acne. These are medicines applied directly to the affected area - a variety of ointments and creams for acne. They contain substances such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfur derivatives, zinc. There are also prescription drugs, such as antibacterial creams and retinoid ointments.

For systemic therapy, tablet drugs are used. Antibiotics are prescribed - tetracycline, doxycycline, erythromycin. They destroy the bacteria that cause acne inflammation and suppuration. If necessary, the doctor prescribes other drugs:

  • oral contraceptives to normalize hormonal levels in women;
  • spironolactone;
  • antiandrogenic substances;
  • isotretinoin (a derivative of vitamin A).

Isotretinoin preparations are very effective in the treatment of acne. However, due to the sufficient number of side effects and contraindications, they should only be prescribed by a doctor.

Other types of acne

In addition to acne, acne can also occur with certain diseases.

Psoriatic acne

Psoriatic acne, or guttate psoriasis, is not associated with blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. They are also not associated with the pathogenic microbial flora of the skin. Psoriatic acne - multiple small painless yellow-pink pimples. They appear on the back and chest, then spread to the legs, less often to the face, ears, scalp. In children, such acne is often located around the anus, leading to severe itching.

The rash is usually associated with the activation of fungi of the genus Candida or yeast microorganisms that cause seborrheic dermatitis. Less commonly, it is caused by staphylococcus aureus or papillomavirus. Immune system disorders affect the condition of the skin, leading to the appearance of small pimples. Therapy of the disease is carried out with glucocorticoids and ultraviolet radiation.

Rosacea

The disease is caused by an increased reaction of the skin to external irritation and an increase in the permeability of blood capillaries. It appears as small red spots on the cheeks and on the nose. If larger vessels are affected, purple spots form in their place.

Increased vascular permeability is due to their altered reactivity to signals from the nervous system. Therefore, the foci of rosacea become brighter after drinking hot drinks, spicy food, or, for example, when it enters a warm room from frost. Rosacea rashes are not associated with infection and require a different treatment than regular acne.

acne in newborns

Elements are localized on the face and head of a newborn and infant. They look like small white pimples, less often tubercles (papules) and pustules. From an allergic rash, such acne is distinguished by unchanged surrounding skin, the absence of itching and the association with the use of new types of food. The general condition of the child does not change.

The rash usually goes away by three months. Its occurrence is due to hormonal imbalances in the mother during pregnancy. If neonatal acne persists in a child older than a year, this is no longer the norm and requires a visit to a dermatologist.

Acne in children

This form of the disease is accompanied by the appearance in young children of a large number of inflammatory elements - papules (red bumps) and pustules (pustules). Usually, the pathology is caused by violations of the endocrine system of the child - adrenal hyperplasia, tumors that produce androgens. Therefore, when a rash appears, a thorough examination is necessary.

Inverse acne

The defeat of the sebaceous glands in this pathology is accompanied by inflammation of the adjacent sweat glands. As a result, large abscesses break through to the skin. Typically, lesions are located under the armpits, around the nipples, in the umbilical region and perineum.

Inverse acne occurs secondary to severe acne. Their appearance is promoted by skin irritation, sweating, obesity, mechanical impact. They look like small elevated formations that gradually soften and open with the release of pus. Gradually, the focus heals and scars with the formation of a rather large retracted scar. The course of the disease is long, it is difficult to treat.

How to remove acne scars on the face, read in the previous article.

Lightning acne

This is a severe complication of common inflammatory acne vulgaris. Against the background of a stable course of the disease, the temperature suddenly rises, signs of intoxication appear. Pustules appear on the skin of the whole body, with the exception of the head, quickly necrotizing with the formation of ulcers and subsequent scarring.

Acne fulminans are more common in adolescents with comorbid digestive conditions, such as colitis or Crohn's disease. It is assumed that irrational treatment of acne with antibiotics, retinoids, and hormones plays a certain role in their appearance.

Tropical acne

It appears mainly in young women after applying sunscreen cosmetics and exposure to the sun or in a solarium. It is caused by the comedogenic effect of such cosmetics, associated with blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands by oxidized cocoa butter, sea buckthorn, coconut contained in it.

The face, neck, shoulders, arms are affected. Comedones with white heads, papules and pustules appear on the skin. A rash appears in summer and disappears in winter.

Excoriated acne

This type of acne is a complication of common acne in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder, more often in women. Noticing a pimple, they immediately begin to squeeze it out, scratch and damage the skin. As a result, a bacterial infection joins, purulent elements appear, which heal with the formation of scars.

Acne caused by endocrine diseases

Part of the pathogenesis of acne is a violation of the metabolism of hormones, especially sexual ones. Therefore, many diseases accompanied by hormonal imbalance are accompanied by different types of acne. These include:

  • adrenogenital syndrome;
  • polycystic ovaries;
  • adrenal tumor;
  • Itsenko-Cushing's syndrome;
  • some pituitary tumors;
  • diabetes and others.

rare forms

  • Keloid acne appears in young men who shave their heads. The reason lies in the defeat of the hair follicles. If this pathology occurs, you should stop washing your scalp with shampoo and start treatment with benzoyl peroxide, glucocorticoids, and sometimes antibiotics.
  • Many bacterial skin diseases are accompanied by acne. However, it is not acne vulgaris. In this case, the main complaints of the patient are other symptoms - itching, burning, redness.
  • Incorrect treatment of acne with antibiotics can be complicated by gram-negative folliculitis. The disease is manifested by a pustular rash resembling acne, as well as the formation of deep abscesses.
  • Facial pyoderma is a severe form of acne that only affects women under the age of 40. It is accompanied by the appearance of nodules, pustules on the face, which then open with the formation of small ulcers, followed by scarring. The disease begins suddenly, often in women who have never suffered from acne, and progresses rapidly. Treatment is with isotretinoin and systemic glucocorticoids.

What to do when acne appears

Acne of any type requires long-term treatment. Sometimes improvement occurs immediately, but more often during the first weeks or months, the skin condition does not change. The patient should not take too many drugs at once. This can cause dry skin and the body's response in the form of increased sebum production.

Acne, ulcers on the head in the hair of an adult: causes, treatment

1 What are the symptoms of scalp folliculitis?

At the very beginning of the disease, the skin turns red, inflamed, itchy, and becomes painful. Hair may begin to fall out more than usual. When scratched, the hair can easily fall out along with the bulb. surrounded by pus. There may be increased peeling and greasiness of the scalp.

Pimples on the head in the hair are usually small, white, and look like goose bumps. Usually there are a lot of pimples, they cover a large area of ​​the skin. When combing, pus with blood is released.

Folliculitis and acne are two completely different diseases, although in both cases the symptoms can be pimples on the scalp. Folliculitis is usually much more severe and takes longer to heal. These pimples differ from acne in that they occur at the base of the hair, and not in the pores. If the border between the healthy and infected area runs along the hairline, then we can confidently talk about folliculitis.

2 Causes of pimples on the scalp

In winter, due to wearing scarves and high collars, acne can appear on the back of the head; in hot weather, the temporal zones, hairline on the forehead and neck are especially susceptible to infection due to excessive sweating.

Also, women who have the habit of washing their hair entirely instead of washing their hair, and collecting dirty hair in a tight tail or bun and fixing it with hair fixing agents, may experience acne on the back of the head.

With excess weight, a deep skin fold can form on the back of the head, sweat, sebum, and dirt can accumulate in it. Wearing leather and fur hats, which many people never wash at all, can lead to infection, turning them into a breeding ground for bacteria. In addition, allergic reactions to wool and fur can weaken skin immunity. From this point of view, knitted and knitted products are much more hygienic and safer.

In people who wear glasses, local skin inflammation and a rash may occur in the area where the temples are attached to the head. In this case, you need to regularly remove glasses to allow the skin to breathe and disinfect the temples themselves. For the duration of treatment, it is better to replace glasses with lenses.

Most often, folliculitis occurs on the scalp, as there are most of the follicles, and they are located close to each other. But it can also spread to other parts of the body where hair grows: eyebrows, beard, armpits, pubis. With a weakened immune system, folliculitis can even infect areas covered with a barely noticeable fluff (in men, this complication is much more common than in women).

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Scalp folliculitis is contagious. Moreover, you can not only infect your loved ones, but also constantly re-infect yourself with the help of hygiene items. Therefore, when symptoms are detected, it is necessary to make it a rule to regularly disinfect hairpins, hair ties, combs, scissors, boil towels and pillowcases, treat shaving accessories with antiseptics and replace them with new ones in time, wash hats, dry them thoroughly, returning from the street. All these items must be individual - in no case should you give them to other people.

3 Methods of treatment

Treatment consists of three components:

  1. Proper hygiene care, including procedures for cleansing, moisturizing, nourishing and protecting.
  2. Means of traditional medicine.
  3. Medications.

To cure acne on the head under the hair, you need to provide the skin with the right care. Oily hair should be washed every day, normal - every other day, dry - 1 time in 2 days. Shampoos and conditioners based on salicylic acid, zinc, birch tar, sulfur, tea tree oil or eucalyptus are very effective. To eliminate itching of the skin, if there are no scratches on it, you can use products with menthol.

Shampoo and conditioner should be thoroughly rinsed, after which the hair can be rinsed with acidified vinegar or lemon juice with cool water to restore the acid-base balance.

To cure acne on the head under the hair, it is necessary to abandon blow-drying, the use of styling products, tight hairstyles, and shaving.

4 Folk remedies for troubleshooting

For the duration of treatment, it is necessary to abandon any masks containing animal components: eggs, dairy products (including sour-milk), animal fats. Honey, despite its antibacterial properties, can also worsen the condition, as it can cause an allergic reaction in irritated skin and even a burn. Instead of masks, it is better to use compresses and rinses based on the following products:

  • Apple vinegar;
  • lemon juice;
  • cinnamon;
  • decoction of chamomile, succession, calendula, mint, rosehip, viburnum.

You can use essential oils diluted with water: coniferous (spruce, fir, cedar), citrus (lemon, orange, grapefruit). Acne can be treated with tea tree oil. It can be used undiluted.

Alcohol solutions cannot be used for treatment, since although they have an antibacterial effect, they still dry out the skin, accelerating the death of the epidermis, and destroying healthy microflora. The dead scalp flakes, devoid of immune defenses, are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.

In no case should you squeeze acne, as the infection can spread deep into the skin and lead to serious problems.

Subject to hygiene rules and doctor's prescriptions, 5-6 days after the start of treatment, the pustules dry out with the formation of a crust and disappear within 2-3 days. During this period, it is important not to scratch your head and not peel off the crusts, as this can lead to re-infection. In this case, bacteria can develop resistance to the antibiotic used, which will require the development of a new treatment regimen.

5 What to do if the abscesses on the head do not go away?

If folliculitis is not treatable at home, then you need to contact a dermatologist or trichologist to find out the causes. Depending on the condition, the doctor may prescribe treatment after a visual examination or write out a referral for analysis of the contents of the pimple in order to identify the causative agent of the infection and prescribe an antibiotic.

Local treatment of demodicosis is ineffective. As a rule, the doctor prescribes a course of Metronidazole, Tinidazole, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, antifungal drugs. To restore the protective functions of the body, vitamin complexes are prescribed. Since the treatment destroys not only the pathogenic microflora of the skin, but also the beneficial one, proper hygiene during the recovery period is very important, otherwise re-infection will occur and you will have to be treated again.

7 Prevention of disease in newborns

The reasons why newborns develop folliculitis are underdeveloped glands that are responsible for moisturizing the skin and an immature immune system. Therefore, infants often develop scalp folliculitis. To prevent this, it is necessary to carefully select cosmetics for hair care - do not overdry your head with shampoo, do not create a greasy film on it with nourishing creams, but do not leave your skin without moisture. To prevent the child from infecting, you need to cut his nails in time, keep his hands clean, and wear special gloves. Caps, hats, pillowcases and diapers should be boiled and ironed with a hot iron. It is especially important to follow these measures if folliculitis has developed in an adult who is caring for a child.

8 Does nutrition affect the condition of the skin?

Nutritional recommendations if ulcers appear on the head are the same as for acne. The basis of the diet should be vegetables and herbs, at least half of which should be consumed fresh (the exception is white cabbage, as it leads to increased gas formation). It is best to combine vegetables with whole grain cereals, legumes (soybeans, lentils, chickpeas, mung bean). Fruits and berries are consumed fresh separately from other products, citrus fruits are eaten only if the presence of an allergy is 100% excluded. It is better to use unrefined oil, without heat treatment. During each meal, you can eat 2-3 nuts of different types. Animal products should be low-fat or fat-free. As a heat treatment, use boiling, stewing, steaming or water bath, baking.

It is necessary to refuse at least for the period of treatment some products:

  • sweets, muffins, sweet carbonated drinks worsen the state of microflora, lead to gas formation and slow down peristalsis;
  • cow's milk protein is poorly absorbed by the vast majority of adults, which leads to indigestion, so it is better to refuse fresh milk;
  • smoked, salted, pickled, canned foods are completely unhealthy foods;
  • synthetic sweeteners can cause allergic reactions;
  • hot spices can cause skin irritation;
  • many patients find a relationship between the occurrence of acne and the use of iodine preparations. Therefore, at the time of treatment, it is better to refuse iodized salt just in case.

To get rid of acne on your head, you need to watch what you eat, wash your hair with shampoo that is right for you, be less upset and enjoy life more. And if you have such a problem and these methods do not help, then you need to consult a doctor. He will prescribe the necessary drugs.

And some secrets.

You may have already tried some remedies for scalp problems:

All of them fight only with external manifestations on the skin, but do not eliminate the cause, in order to get rid of crusts, acne, red spots, lichen and dandruff on the head, read an interview with Dr. Sergey Rykov. where he explains in detail the cause of these skin problems read HERE!

Do not confuse a boil with ostiofolliculitis. Here we will talk about the second case. Ostiofolliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicle, a fairly mild disease of a bacterial nature. Ostiofolliculitis can turn into a furuncle, or it can disappear at the first stage, as well as a furuncle can develop without osteofolliculitis.

So, we are talking about a common problem that is of interest to the masses of people. The title does not lie: who has not experienced inflammation of the hair follicles? Perhaps no one.

Reasons for the appearance

reasons for the development of local inflammation of the skin (hair follicles) several:

  1. Frequent shaving against hair growth. No wonder shaving hair is always recommended for hair growth, in extreme cases - across. This is especially true for hair that is on the legs in the groin, that is, in places that are shaved most often (here we are talking mainly about women, otherwise we would not talk about the problems of hair growth on the legs!). If you shave improperly, “ingrown hairs” will definitely appear, which then become inflamed.
  2. Wearing tight underwear especially if the fabric is synthetic. The reason for the development of folliculitis when wearing tight underwear intersects with the previous paragraph. Tissue that is tightly attached to the skin makes it difficult for hair to grow, causing ingrown hair, and, accordingly, inflammation. The role of synthetics is also important here: this material irritates the skin very easily, making it more sensitive to various infections.
  3. Skin injury, especially chronic, constantly recurring.
  4. decreased immunity, which can occur against the background of infectious immunodeficiencies, taking certain drugs and malnutrition. This condition is a risk factor for all purulent skin diseases.

Symptoms: how does inflammation of the hair follicles manifest itself?

The very first symptom you may notice is redness around the hair or follicle and compaction in this area. Usually in this period there are no painful sensations, but the development of folliculitis may be accompanied by slight itching.

At the site of redness is formed nodule-infiltrate, which is slightly painful to touch. It all depends on the extent of the lesion: small ulcers do not change the local temperature of the skin, while large ones increase the temperature near the lesion. If the lesion is multiple, fever may occur.

The next stage is formation of a purulent core. In fact, this is the last period of the disease: after it, either recovery occurs, or folliculitis turns into a boil.

Inflammation of the follicles on the legs rarely causes serious discomfort. If folliculitis occurs in the groin, it is much more difficult to endure: the site of inflammation is constantly subjected to friction, which only aggravates the process.

How is hair follicle inflammation treated?

As always, it all depends on the degree of damage and the body's ability to resist infection.

Mild forms of inflammation do not need any special treatment.: it is enough to periodically wash the foci of inflammation with antiseptic solutions (for example, salicylic or camphor alcohol is perfect), use antibacterial soap and ointments.

Never squeeze pustules on the skin! The consequences of this seemingly innocent action can be very, very dangerous. Sanitary education work in this respect works well: almost everyone knows that squeezing "pimples" on the face is, in the truest sense of the word, deadly (it is fraught with pus entering the vessels of the brain). This applies to any pustules! Yes, this, of course, will not be fatal, but the consequences can be very unpleasant.

Areas affected by inflammation cannot be washed with normal water, this can only be done with weak antiseptic solutions. Give up "chemical" gels and balms, stop wearing tight underwear (at least for the duration of the illness!) And perhaps this will be enough for recovery.

If you missed the onset of the disease or hoped for its independent cure, then it becomes necessary to use completely different methods of treatment. The simplest thing that can be assigned to you is oral antibiotics. Such treatment can turn out to be more than dangerous ... Decide for yourself what is better: go to the doctor immediately, or be treated later with “heavy”, harmful drugs.

You say: what is it in one small pimple? But such "pimples" quite often cause hospitalization in a hospital. No, of course, you will not be sent to surgery because of an unsuccessful shaving of the legs or groin area. But if you "start" the disease, let it spread... Then anything can happen.

Let's formulate the conclusion like this: the most important moment in the treatment of inflammation of the hair follicle is a visit to the doctor. Suddenly? Alas, it is so.

A person often encounters various diseases and pathological processes. Some of them pass on their own, while others require competent treatment. In this article we will talk about what is inflammation of the hair follicles. Almost everyone can face this pathology. It is worth knowing what a hair follicle is and how the symptoms of its inflammation appear. We will also find out ways to treat pathology.

Inflammation of the hair follicles

This disease is called folliculitis. It can develop in anyone. Humans have many hairs on their bodies. And in the bulb of each of them, folliculitis can develop.

The hair follicle becomes inflamed for several reasons. However, in all cases, the reproduction of bacteria begins in it. Most often it is staphylococci.

Types of folliculitis

Inflammation of the hair follicles can take several different forms. They are divided depending on what caused the pathology. So, doctors distinguish the following types of disease:

Inflammation of the hair follicles occurs due to the ingress of bacteria into them. This can be caused by a minor injury or cut. Most often this happens during shaving or epilation.

The cause of the development of pathology can be the wearing of tight clothes and underwear. This is especially true for women of the weaker sex. In this case, inflammation of the hair follicles in the groin begins.

Elementary non-observance of hygiene, use of public saunas and pools can lead to such a pathology. In this case, the microbe can penetrate both through damaged skin and into a healthy follicle.

Symptoms of pathology

Inflammation of the hair follicles on the head or in any other places can be superficial or deep. In the first case, there is a slight redness in the area of ​​​​the hair and a small abscess, which does not exceed 5 millimeters in size.

With deep inflammation, an extensive lesion of the upper layers of the skin occurs. The abscess in this case has a size of one to ten centimeters.

The lesion can be either single or multiple. In especially severe cases, pain and itching occur.

Inflammation of the hair follicle: treatment

To treat pathology or not, the specialist must decide. See a dermatologist and get a qualified appointment. In most cases, treatment is performed surgically. This usually does not require the use of anesthesia. Only in particularly severe cases, representative anesthesia of the affected area is necessary.

Treatment of inflammation of the hair follicle is done with a scalpel or a thin curette. The doctor treats the adjacent area and opens the abscess. After that, you need to thoroughly clean the wound from pus and disinfect it. In most cases, the hair growing from this follicle is completely removed with tweezers.

After such treatment, it is necessary to treat the affected area several times a day with special solutions. What exactly suits you, the specialist will decide. Most often, Zelenka, furatsilin, chlorhexidine or alcohol are prescribed. In especially severe cases, with deep inflammation, it is recommended to use compresses with ichthyol. You need to apply such lotions several times a day until complete recovery.

Alternative treatment: use of medications

Additional measures may be recommended depending on the cause of the inflammation. If folliculitis is caused by long-term use of hormonal drugs, then they are simply canceled. Of course, this takes into account the benefits and possible risks for the patient.

In addition, doctors prescribe which affect the microorganism. However, before that, it is worth passing an analysis to identify sensitivity to certain drugs. Often doctors use the following medications: Metronidazole, Naxogen, Cefotaxime, and so on. Remember that without prior analysis, treatment may not be effective.

Ways to prevent the disease

Is there any method that avoids inflammation of the hair follicle? Certainly yes. For starters, you should reconsider your own lifestyle and observe basic hygiene. Regularly cleanse your body with gels and special scrubs. Take a shower at least once a day.

Try not to use other people's towels, scarves and clothes. Avoid questionable reservoirs, saunas and pools. If you are swimming, then the water must be chlorinated. At the same time, its pH should be at least 8.

Avoid wearing tight underwear. Avoid strong friction of clothing in the area of ​​skin folds, for example, in the groin area. When depilating and shaving, always use emollients. After the procedure, apply alcohol softening lotions to the skin. They will help to disinfect the integument and prevent bacteria from entering the wound.

Summarizing

So, we found out what it is. Also, you became aware of the symptoms and causes of the pathology. Do not open abscesses yourself. Seek help from a specialist who will provide you with the right assistance and prescribe subsequent treatment. Health to you!

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

Concept. Definition

Folliculitis refers to skin diseases and is a form of superficial pyoderma.

Folliculitis is an inflammation of the upper sections of the hair follicles. The inflammation that occurs with folliculitis is infectious. The mechanism of the development of the disease is that at first a papule is formed at the mouth of the follicle, then a pustule is formed, which is penetrated by a hair in the center. The next stage is the formation of a crust in the follicle area. If the inflammatory process goes deeper and affects the entire follicle, and not just its upper section, then the disease is called sycosis. The disease has its favorite places of localization, which include parts of the body with an abundance of vellus hair. In this regard, folliculitis most often affects the extensor surfaces of the legs and arms, the scalp.

Epidemiology. Statistical data

Folliculitis is most often found in hot countries where the climate favors the development of inflammatory skin diseases. Also, this disease is more common in socially unfavorable strata of society, which is facilitated by unsanitary living conditions.

Folliculitis is often of a professional nature and is observed in people whose work is associated with constant exposure to reactive agents: gasoline, kerosene, tar, lubricating oils, etc.

Precise statistics are not provided, since in most cases such patients rarely seek medical help, preferring to self-medicate. Most often, patients who develop complications against the background of folliculitis are in the field of view of physicians: phlegmon, abscess or lymphadenitis.

Clinical symptoms of folliculitis

In the initial stage of the disease, there is reddening of the skin in the area of ​​​​inflamed follicles and moderate soreness. Simply put, pustules form around the hair on the skin. In the absence of timely and adequate treatment, the inflammatory process progresses and causes the formation of an infiltrate in the affected area. The surface of the skin in the area of ​​the inflamed follicle acquires a cone-shaped or spherical shape, has a yellowish color, which is associated with the accumulation of pus. After removal of the pustule cover, pus is determined, after the removal of which, an area of ​​​​saturated red color is visible.

The number of folliculitis can be different: from 1-2 to huge. In some cases, patients complain of severe itching in the area of ​​folliculitis. In severe cases, when the number of inflamed follicles is very large, the patient may experience an increase in lymph nodes (local).

Features of different types of folliculitis

There are a lot of varieties of folliculitis, and therefore, it is advisable from a practical point of view to consider separately the features of each of them.
  1. Staphylococcal folliculitis. It is typical for areas where bristly hair grows (nasolabial triangle, chin). It occurs mainly in men who shave. In severe cases, when the death of hair follicles occurs, after the end of the inflammatory process, connective tissue scars are formed.

  2. candidal folliculitis. This type of folliculitis occurs, as a rule, under occlusive dressings. The risk of developing folliculitis is increased by topical use of drugs from the group of corticosteroids under dressing. Also, the risk of the disease is higher in bedridden patients and long-term febrile patients.

  3. Herpetic folliculitis. As well as staphylococcal, it is more common in shaving men in the area of ​​​​the nasolabial triangle and on the chin.

  4. Acne syphilis. This type of folliculitis is a consequence of the disease syphilis. It is characterized by the fact that inflamed follicles acquire a faded red color, in some cases they are arranged in groups. Elimination of this pathology is possible only in the treatment of the underlying disease with specific means.
  5. Pseudomonas folliculitis caused by the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This type of folliculitis is also known by another name - "hot bath" folliculitis, since it usually occurs after taking a bath with hot water that has not been sufficiently chlorinated.

  6. Gram-negative folliculitis develops in immunocompromised patients who have been taking antibacterial medications for a long time due to acne. It is characterized by the fact that the patient's condition deteriorates sharply, which is manifested in increased acne. Abscesses may form.

  7. Folliculitis caused by dermatophytes. This infection typically starts from the upper layer of the epidermis, after which the inflammatory process captures the mouths of the follicles, and then the hair shafts. A complication in this case is dermatophytosis of the scalp.

  8. Folliculitis caused by fungi, belonging to the genus Pityrosporum, is typical for tropical and subtropical climates. It is characterized by an itchy rash of a monomorphic nature (papules and pustules), which is located at the mouths of the follicles. In such patients, scratching is found with localization in the area of ​​​​the shoulders, back, face and neck.

  9. Depilatory folliculitis of smooth skin- This is another type of disease that occurs mainly in hot countries. Middle-aged men are more susceptible to the disease. Also, this type of folliculitis is characterized by the symmetry of the lesion. Inflamed follicles appear evenly on the skin of the lower extremities. After the elimination of folliculitis, characteristic follicular scars remain on the skin.

  10. gonorrheal folliculitis occurs most rarely compared with other types of this disease. The place of its localization is the foreskin in men and the perineum in women. Occurs with long-term and untreated gonorrhea. When examining the contents of the pustules in such patients, gonococci are found in large quantities.

  11. Occupational folliculitis develops in people of certain professions and is associated with exposure to the skin of irritating chemicals. With this type of disease, rashes are usually localized on the back of the hands, as well as on the extensor surfaces of the forearms.

  12. Impetigo Bockhart(impetigo Bockhardt), despite its name, nevertheless belongs to the group of folliculitis. In this case, hemispherical, superficial pustules develop, which can range in size from a poppy seed to a lentil. The pustules are permeated with downy hair, arranged in groups. The reason for the development of this folliculitis is increased sweating and maceration of the skin, which is a consequence of the use of warm compresses.

  13. Tick-borne folliculitis. It develops after a tick bite, lasts longer than other varieties, requires specific treatment of the underlying disease (if the tick is an epidemiological danger).

  14. Eosinophilic folliculitis. It is observed only in an isolated group of patients (HIV-infected).
  15. According to the degree of damage, folliculitis is divided into:

    1. Surface. This type is characterized by small pustules (2-5 mm in diameter). Pustules have a hemispherical or conical shape, in the central part they are penetrated by hair, connected directly with the mouths of the hair funnels. Around the pustules is a small inflammatory rim, painted in pinkish-red color. Pain may be completely absent or minimal. The duration of the disease is 2-3 days, after which the contents of the pustules turn into a brown crust. After rejection of the crust, foci of pigmentation and peeling may remain.
    2. deep folliculitis. This form is characterized by the fact that painful nodules of dense consistency and red color are formed on the skin. The size of the nodules can reach up to 10 mm, the pustule is riddled with hair in the central part. After 3-5 days, the pustule shrinks, resulting in a yellow crust.
    3. According to the number of inflamed follicles, the disease is classified into:

      1. Single folliculitis;

      2. Multiple folliculitis.

      Downstream, folliculitis is classified into:

      1. Complicated;

      2. Uncomplicated.

      Causes of folliculitis

      Folliculitis is an infectious disease, therefore it can be caused by pathogens of various kinds: bacteria, herpes viruses, fungi. Despite the fact that certain pathogens are the cause of folliculitis, many other factors and concomitant diseases also play an important role. They are divided into two groups:
      Exogenous (external) factors:

  • Skin microtrauma;

  • skin contamination;

  • Improper application or untimely application of occlusive dressings;

  • Climatic conditions (high humidity and ambient temperature);

  • Habit of wearing tight-fitting or tight clothing of synthetic quality;


Endogenous (internal) factors:




  • Lack of good nutrition;

  • Liver disease;

  • Treatment with drugs from the group of immunosuppressants;

  • The use of glucocorticosteroids locally, especially under an occlusive dressing.

There are also a number of disorders in the body that indirectly contribute to the development of folliculitis. These include:

  • periodontal disease;



  • Chronic tonsillitis ;

  • Chronic pharyngitis;

All these conditions are characterized by the fact that they weaken the immune defense of the body, which becomes unable to provide adequate resistance to skin infections.

Complications of folliculitis

In most cases, folliculitis is mild and does not pose a real threat to human life. In some cases, complications may develop. As a rule, complications develop in the absence of adequate treatment, non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene and insufficient immune response of the body.

Complications of folliculitis include:

  • Furuncle (and it, in turn, can lead to the development of lymphadenitis and hydradenitis);

  • Carbuncle;


  • Dermatophytosis of the scalp (with folliculitis caused by dermatophytes);

  • Formation of follicular scars.

In isolated cases, such severe complications against the background of folliculitis as nephritis, meningitis and severe forms of pneumonia are described.

Diagnostics

In the diagnosis of folliculitis, an important role is given to the examination of the patient. The rash with folliculitis is quite characteristic and allows you to reliably establish the diagnosis. Additional examinations allow you to establish the cause that led to the development of the disease.

The nature of the rash
Papules or pustules are characterized by the fact that they are located at the mouths of hair follicles. Around them are defined rims of hyperemia. Most often, inflamed follicles are located close to each other in a chaotic relationship.

To make a diagnosis, the collection of anamnesis (information about the onset of the disease, predisposing and antecedent factors) also plays a role.

To establish the nature of the disease, a microscopic analysis of a Gram smear, bacteriological culture of the contents of the pustules is carried out. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed.

A blood test is also mandatory to determine the level of sugar in the blood in order to exclude undiagnosed diabetes mellitus, which can also be the cause of the disease.

Differential Diagnosis

If folliculitis is suspected, the doctor needs to make a differential diagnosis with other skin diseases that have similar manifestations. In this case, the task is not easy, since there are a lot of diseases with a similar course. These include:
  • Inflammation of the hair follicles of a non-infectious nature;

  • Rosacea;

  • Acne vulgaris;

  • Exposure to chemicals (chlorine);

  • Drug toxicoderma (lithium, corticosteroids, bromine preparations);

  • Kirle disease.

  • Follicular keratosis;

  • Diffuse neurodermatitis;

  • ingrown hairs;

  • Avitaminosis C and A;

  • Devergie disease;

  • Lichen planus (follicular form);

  • Discoid lupus erythematosus;


  • Necrotic acne;

  • Scurvy;

  • Grover's disease.

Treatment

In the initial form of the disease, fairly simple but effective methods of treating folliculitis are used. The treatment of pustules is carried out with 2% camphor or salicylic alcohol, 2% solution of brilliant green, fucorcin or a solution of methylene blue. Remember, only 1% and 2% salicylic alcohol can be used, high concentrations are excluded. Salicylic acid is part of the creams, gels and lotions of the Klerasil series specially created for the skin.

In cases where the folliculitis is deep and the accumulation of pus is significant, it is recommended to open the pustules, remove the pus, followed by treatment with one of the listed solutions.

Chronic recurrent forms of folliculitis require the appointment of stronger medications. In these cases, prescribe drugs from the group of sulfonamides, antibiotics. With this form, immunostimulating therapy is also indicated.

From non-drug therapy for folliculitis, irradiation with ultraviolet rays has proven itself well. Suberythemal doses are administered every other day or daily. The general course is 6-10 exposures.

If folliculitis has developed against the background of diabetes, then a corrective diet is additionally prescribed. With the normalization of carbohydrate metabolism, the risk of recurrence of the disease is greatly reduced.

Consider the treatment of special cases of folliculitis

Staphylococcal folliculitis

Topically prescribed mupirocin ointment 2 times a day. Inside appoint cephalexin, dicloxacillin, erythromycin or methicillin. The antibiotic is selected on the basis of a certain sensitivity of the organism to antibacterial agents.

Pseudomonas folliculitis
In severe cases, ciprofloxacin is prescribed.

Folliculitis caused by gram-negative bacteria
Antibiotics should be discontinued. Local therapy with benzoyl peroxide is prescribed.

Fungal folliculitis
Locally specific antifungal agents are prescribed. Inside it is recommended to take itracanosole, terbinafine, fluconazole.

Herpetic folliculitis
Assign inside the drug acyclovir.

In the treatment of folliculitis, a huge role is given to folk methods of treatment that have successfully proven themselves and are recognized by official medicine.
Consider some of the most common and effective traditional medicine recipes.

  • A decoction of viburnum and wild rose
    The decoction contains: viburnum berries - 200 grams, rose hips - 200 grams, dried nettles - 100 grams. Here we also add the shell of nuts, always green - 10 grams, fresh home-made cottage cheese -50 grams a, bee honey - 50 grams, water - 2 cups.
    How to prepare a healing infusion? We take ripened and washed viburnum berries, as well as wild rose, combine them with nettles and nut shells. Pour the dry mixture with boiling water and send it to languish for 10 minutes on a minimum fire. After that, the mixture should be infused for 24 hours, then we filter it. We have prepared the basis for future applications. When we start treatment, we make a mixture of fresh cottage cheese with honey and add two tablespoons of decoction to them. We put a mixture of vorog with viburnum decoction on the affected area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin 3 times a day for 20 minutes.

  • Chamomile decoction
    Chamomile is a magical remedy for inflammation. Wash it with a decoction prepared in accordance with the instructions on the pharmacy box at least three times a day. The same decoction can be used to lubricate any other areas of the skin that show signs of folliculitis. Chamomile will remove inflammation from the skin and dry it.

  • hot towel
    To prevent staphylococcal folliculitis, use the old and proven folk method, it will help prevent the onset of the disease. After shaving, apply a moistened hot towel to your face for just a minute.

  • Dandelion officinalis
    This herbal infusion is drunk inside. It is prepared from the roots, along with the leaves.
    Pour two, without top, teaspoons of small and well-dried leaves with one glass of boiling water and boil for 10 minutes. We filter the broth and take 4 times a day, 50 ml each.

  • prickly
    We use prickly pear as an effective external folk remedy. We take 50 g of the root and cook in half a liter of water for 30 minutes. Remove the broth from the heat and continue to insist for one hour, do not forget to filter. It is used by patients for compresses, baths and soothing dressings.

  • Cleavers
    Here, we use flowers, that is, the aerial part of the plant, as raw materials. With dried powder from the plant, sprinkle the sore spot under the medical bandage.

  • Fragrant woodruff
    Everything is very simple here, fresh, freshly prepared slurry of leaves is applied locally under a medical bandage to the site of the abscess. We change the bandage 2 times a day.

  • prickly tartar
    This plant is also called thistle. As in the previous recipe, we use it locally, make a fresh gruel from the leaves of the plant and apply it to the affected area.

  • Burdock
    We drink the decoction inside. To do this, boil the chopped burdock root (1 tablespoon) in 500 ml of water for 10 minutes, leave for 1 hour, filter. It is taken 50 ml 2 times a day.

Forecast

With folliculitis, the prognosis is considered favorable. With a significant depth of the lesion, foci of pigmentation may remain after the crust falls off. Complicated folliculitis is rare, but they are successfully treated by doctors.

Under favorable conditions, the pustule dries up into a crust, which soon falls off, the infiltrate gradually resolves and after 6-7 days only pigmentation or, with a significant depth of the lesion, a scar remains at the site of the former folliculitis.

Preventive measures

Preventive measures are reduced to a set of hygiene measures, timely and proper care of hair and skin. In addition, each person should monitor the general level of health, since the factors contributing to this disease can be eliminated or prevented.
Stay healthy!