Folliculitis
Folliculitis is the inflammation and infection of hair follicles. A hair follicle is the little pocket where a hair grows out of the skin. Folliculitis is most commonly caused by bacteria or fungus. Bacteria normally live on the skin. But sometimes bacteria can get trapped in a follicle and cause infection. This causes a bumpy rash. The area over the follicles is red and raised. It may itch or be painful. The bumps may have fluid (pus) inside. The pus may leak and then form crusts. Sores can spread to other areas of the body. Once folliculitis goes away, it can come back at any time. Severe cases may cause lasting hair loss and scarring.
Folliculitis can happen anywhere on the body where hair grows. It can be caused by rubbing from tight clothing. Ingrown hairs can cause it. So can soaking in a hot tub or swimming pool that has bacteria in the water. It may also occur if a hair follicle is blocked by a bandage.
Sores often go away in a few days with no treatment. In some cases, you may be given medicine. Your health care provider may take a small sample of the skin or pus. It will be examined in a lab. This is done to find out the type of bacteria causing the infection.
Home care
Your health care provider may prescribe an antibiotic cream or ointment. Antibiotics taken by mouth may also be prescribed. Or you may be told to use an over-the-counter antibiotic cream. Follow all instructions when using any of these medicines.
General care
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Apply warm, moist compresses to the sores for 20 minutes up to 3 times a day. You can make a compress by soaking a cloth in warm water. Squeeze out excess water. Wash the cloth after use to prevent spreading the infection.
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Don’t cut, poke, or squeeze the sores. This can be painful and spread the infection.
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Don’t scratch the affected area. Scratching can delay healing.
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Don’t shave the affected areas.
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If the sores leak fluid, cover the area with a nonstick gauze bandage. Use as little tape as possible. Carefully get rid of all soiled bandages.
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Dress in loose cotton clothing, especially when the weather is hot and humid.
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Change sheets and blankets if they are soiled by pus. Wash all clothes, towels, sheets, and cloth diapers in soap and hot water. Don't share such things with other family members.
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Don't soak the sores in bath water. This can spread the infection. Instead, keep the area clean by gently washing sores with soap and warm water.
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Wash your hands with soap and clean running water or use antibacterial gels often to prevent spreading the bacteria.
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Some forms of folliculitis can spread from person to person. Talk to your health care provider to see if you should stay away from contact sports or other activities.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider, or as advised.
When to get medical advice
Contact your health care provider or get medical care right away if:
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You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider.
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The rash spreads.
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The rash doesn't get better with treatment.
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The redness or swelling of the rash gets worse.
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The rash becomes more painful.
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Bad-smelling fluid leaks from the skin.
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The rash improves, but then it comes back.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Michael Lehrer MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rita Sather RN
Date Last Reviewed:
2/1/2025
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