What does folliculitis look like on scalp?
What are the symptoms of scalp folliculitis? Folliculitis initially causes small, red bumps that look similar to an acne breakout. Over time, it may spread to other follicles and the bumps may get larger and more inflamed. While it can affect any part of your scalp, it often begins along your hairline.
How do I know if my folliculitis is fungal or bacterial?
Doctors tend to diagnose folliculitis based on a physical examination. The doctor may examine the skin, take note of symptoms, and review the person’s medical and family history. They may take a swab of the infected skin to test for which bacteria or fungus has caused the folliculitis.
What kills scalp folliculitis?
Doctors can treat severe folliculitis with a prescription-strength antifungal or antibiotic ointment. They can also prescribe a medicated shampoo that relieves itching, and helps kill infectious microbes.
How long does scalp folliculitis last?
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.
Can scalp folliculitis be cured?
Most cases of folliculitis are completely curable. There are very uncommon, long-standing cases of folliculitis that may not be curable. Often these more resistant cases may be controlled with proper treatment and medication. Folliculitis sometimes clears completely by itself without treatment.
Should I pop folliculitis bumps?
Don’t cut, poke, or squeeze the sores. This can be painful and spread infection. Don’t scratch the affected area. Scratching can delay healing.
Why do I keep getting folliculitis on my scalp?
Folliculitis is most often caused by an infection of hair follicles with Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria. Folliculitis may also be caused by viruses, fungi and even an inflammation from ingrown hairs.
How do you treat chronic scalp folliculitis?
Treatment for scalp folliculitis includes:
- Topical antibiotics. Clindamycin solution.
- Topical steroid creams or lotions.
- Oral antihistamines.
- Oral antibiotics, particularly long-term tetracycline.
- Oral isotretinoin.
- Antidandruff shampoos containing antifungal agents such as ketoconazole or ciclopirox may be helpful.
What happens if you leave folliculitis untreated?
If folliculitis is left untreated, boils (or skin abscesses) can develop. As the hair follicle becomes deeply infected, the boil will come to a head and may drain. The boil may be painful and red. A large cluster of boils may also appear as many follicles become infected.
Should you squeeze folliculitis?
Don’t cut, poke, or squeeze the sores. This can be painful and spread infection. Don’t scratch the affected area.
Is folliculitis an autoimmune disorder?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. Folliculitis is an infection caused by bacteria. Psoriasis is incurable and flares may be long-lasting. Folliculitis is curable and usually heals within a few days.
