Folliculitis Signs and Symptoms Include:
The symptoms of folliculitis can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the location of the affected area. Here are some common symptoms of folliculitis:
- Red bumps or pus-filled pimples: One of the most common symptoms of folliculitis is the appearance of small red bumps or pus-filled pimples around hair follicles.
- Itching or burning sensation: Folliculitis can cause an itchy or burning sensation in the affected area.
- Tenderness or pain: The infected hair follicles can be tender or painful to touch, especially if they are located in areas with more pressure or friction such as the scalp, beard, or thighs.
- Swollen or inflamed skin: Folliculitis can cause the skin around hair follicles to become red, swollen, and inflamed.
- Crusting or scaling: In some cases, folliculitis can cause the skin to crust over or become scaly.
- Hair loss: Severe or chronic folliculitis can damage hair follicles and lead to alopecia (hair loss) in the affected area.
- Fever or fatigue: In rare cases, a bacterial or fungal infection causing folliculitis can lead to systemic symptoms such as fever or fatigue.
If you experience one or more of these symptoms, see a dermatologist or skin specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Folliculitis can often be treated with topical or oral antibiotics, antifungal medications, or other topical treatments, depending on the cause of the infection.