Folliculitis
Description
Folliculitis is characterized by the growth of small, pimple-like bumps on a localized area of skin. Folliculitis can develop on the back of the thighs, on the buttocks, under the arms, or anywhere else on your body. Sometimes the condition is accompanied by mild itching at the affected site, though the symptoms are usually so minor that most people ignore the condition or assume that the bumps are caused by irritation.
Folliculitis is a common skin condition caused by an infection of hair follicles. The infection usually occurs when staphylococci (a type of microrganism), fungi, or bacteria enter hair follicles that have become irritated by clothing friction (such as a tight pair of jeans or a wet bathing suit), follicle blockage (caused when sweat is allowed to dry on the skin), or injury. The condition can occur anywhere on your skin, but folliculitis on the legs, underarms, bikini line, or face is usually caused by shaving. People who suffer from folliculitis often suffer chronically.
Signs And Symptoms
- A rash of small, pus-filled pimples (each pierced by a hair) in a localized area
- When irritated, the pimples develop raised, red borders with yellow or gray centers
- Mild itchiness at the affected site
Conventional Medical Treatment
Your dermatologist can diagnose folliculitis with a physical examination of the area. If the pustules have become inflamed, your dermatologist will probably prescribe a topical or oral antibiotic to help clear up the infection.
If you have folliculitis but none of the pustules are inflamed, home care can usually clear the condition. Over-the-counter acne treatments that contain sulfur, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide should clear the condition within three to five days. If your folliculitis is caused by shaving, you may want to consider waxing or a depilatory. Men who develop folliculitis on the face after shaving should use a new razor blade every day to avoid reinfecting the area. Do not shave areas that are affected by folliculitis until after the rash heals. If your folliculitis is caused by tight clothing, dress in looser fashions-or change out of restrictive clothing (such as bathing suits) as soon as possible.
Complementary and Alternative Treatments
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture This modality can be used to relieve inflammation and improve circulation to the affected follicles. Auricular points that may be targeted include the lung, adrenal gland, back of head, and points that correspond to the affected area.
Chinese Herbal Therapy There are various liniments that can be used. Check with your TCM practitioner.
Checkout latest information on home remedies http://www.best-home-remedies.com/
