Folliculitis

Infected Hair Follicle – Causes, Signs & Treatment

Is your scalp sore, itchy and inflamed? It could be a sign of Folliculitis. One of the lesser-known causes of hair loss, this skin and scalp condition can be pretty unpleasant. However, the good news is that folliculitis treatments are available at Shuna Hammocks Trichology.

In this article, you’ll discover more about Folliculitis, including its symptoms, causes and potential treatment options.

What is Folliculitis?

Folliculitis is a skin condition in which the hair follicles become infected or inflamed. It can affect men and women at any age, though it is much more common in adults. Although the scalp is commonly affected, it’s important to note that Folliculitis can occur on any body part where hair follicles are found, such as the arms, legs and armpits.

Folliculitis is contagious. So, if you scratch the infected area and then touch other body parts, it will spread. You can also pass the condition on to others in the same household. It’s also worth noting that there are several different types of Folliculitis, and it can also vary significantly in severity.

Causes of Folliculitis

Folliculitis can be caused by numerous factors including:

Fungal or bacterial infections
Shaving
Excessive sweating
Tight or restrictive clothing
Medication and medical conditions

It is extremely important to seek a correct diagnosis for the best possible treatment.

Folliculitis Symptoms

There are three main symptoms which can present with Folliculitis. Most commonly, small red, itchy spots will develop in the affected area. Some patients may find these lumps painful, but essentially, they just tend to itch.

The trouble is if you scratch the affected area, not only do you risk spreading the condition, but it can also cause the hair to break off, leading to more noticeable patches of hair loss. Therefore, all patients are advised to avoid scratching the affected area.

If you suspect you suffer from Folliculitis, you must seek treatment immediately. When treated early enough, any hair loss experienced will be temporary and will eventually grow back. If left untreated, however, the condition could worsen and lead to permanent hair loss, where more drastic treatments would be required.

It is worth noting that in very mild cases, the condition may not require treatment. Provided you don’t aggravate it, you may find it disappears naturally within 7-10 days. However, a medicated cream or lotion may be prescribed to speed recovery.

Folliculitis Treatment

Here at the Shuna Hammocks Trichology Clinic, we offer a range of scalp treatments to treat Folliculitis. The scalp will be treated at the clinic before prescribing an appropriate medicated treatment. You can continue to use the medication at home. The treatments you may be offered include lotions, creams, dietary advice and shampoos. If the condition is severe, you may also be advised to take antibiotics.

Folliculitis Patient’s Testimonial

Was recommend Shuna by one of my sister’s friends. Have been to several specialists and Shuna is by far the best I’ve seen. She gave me the most comprehensive consultation and I automatically felt at ease in her presence. Whilst my treatment is still on going in the early stages of treatment I have already seen results I hadn’t seen elsewhere. Would thoroughly recommend her to anybody seeking hair treatment.
Elliot Cox, West Sussex