Folliculitis Treatment in San Diego, CA
What is Folliculitis?
Folliculitis refers to the inflammation or infection of hair follicles, the small pockets in the skin from which hair grows. It can occur when these follicles become blocked or damaged, allowing bacteria, fungi, or viruses to enter. Mild cases can be cared for at home, while other cases are treated by a dermatologist.
Folliculitis can happen anywhere you have hair follicles, however, it is most often seen on the face, arms, back, and legs.
Dealing with red, itchy, or painful bumps on your skin? The board-certified dermatologists at Del Mar M.E.D. have extensive experience diagnosing and treating folliculitis. Call (858) 755-6647 to schedule an appointment at our San Diego dermatology clinic today.
What are the Symptoms of Folliculitis?
This condition may look like acne, often starting out as small red bumps.
If you have folliculitis, you may notice:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Itching
- Bumps on the skin
- Crusting
- Scabbing
- Pain
While folliculitis is usually not a serious condition, it can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, may lead to complications if not properly treated.
What are the Causes of Folliculitis?
Hair follicles can gather bacteria that could cause inflammation or infection. When something is inflamed, it’s swollen. A swollen hair follicle will bulge up and make a bump on the skin.
Folliculitis can happen as a result of daily activities like:
- Shaving
- Waxing
- Friction
- Getting in a hot tub
- Excess sweating from exercise or outdoor work
- Use of antibiotics
Folliculitis is a very common skin condition that many people will experience throughout their lives. Whether it’s caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, proper hygiene and skincare are key to minimizing flare-ups and ensuring healthier skin.
Diagnosing and Treating Folliculitis
Treatment for folliculitis typically depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. You can talk with your doctor about your symptoms to see what would be the best plan for you moving forward.
Your doctor will examine the skin and discuss your health history with you to determine the underlying cause.
Mild cases often resolve on their own with proper skin care, while more severe or recurrent cases may require medical intervention.
Your doctor may recommend:
- Lifestyle changes like adjusting shaving routines
- Warm compress
- Gentle soap or cleansers
- Topical creams
- Oral antibiotics to clear the infection
- Steroid cream to reduce irritation
- Laser or light therapy
- Drainage or treatment to the folliculitis if sores are severe
Depending on your situation, we have a solution for you. This can be painful and irritating, and we can help. After you know what is affecting your skin, we can work together to clear up the infected area and avoid clogged hair follicles in the future.
Schedule a Folliculitis Consultation in San Diego, CA
Folliculitis can be uncomfortable and persistent, but expert care is just a call away. Contact Del Mar M.E.D. at (858) 755-6647 to request an appointment with a dermatologist in San Diego and get the relief you deserve.