Scalp folliculitis Treatment at Home

Scalp folliculitis treatment at home Scalp Folliculitis Causes and Cure

When you scratch your head, do you notice red bumps? Is it similar to a breakout of acne on the scalp? If so, it might be the source of scalp folliculitis, a common skin ailment.

This post covers all the information you require to properly diagnose, treat, and manage scalp folliculitis.

Photos of scalp folliculitis will be included in this post.

What is scalp folliculitis?

Scalp folliculitis; NHS (National Health Service): Scalp folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles.

“Acne necrotic miliaris” and “Propionibacterium folliculitis” are other names for the illness.

Small, extremely itchy pustules on the scalp are the hallmarks of scalp folliculitis; these lesions are frequently the most bothersome in the frontal hairline.

The quantity of lesions may vary greatly or there may be relatively few.

The itching makes it difficult to leave them alone. They frequently get crusty and painful.

Infections, ingrown hairs, and negative drug reactions may cause this inflammation.

Although not life-threatening, the illness can cause itching, pain, and embarrassment.

You can, however, get rid of it with prompt medical attention from your doctor.

What does scalp folliculitis look like?

Initially, clusters of little red pimples may be mistaken for an acne outbreak when scalp folliculitis is present.

Frivolous infections can spread to other hair shafts if they are not treated, and the bumps may become sore.

Additionally, blisters that burst, leak pus, and become crusty are possible.

Types of scalp folliculitis

There are two general categories for folliculitis: superficial and profound. Deep folliculitis is more difficult to cure because it extends further into the hair follicle than superficial folliculitis, which is minor and readily treated.

Superficial scalp folliculitis includes:

• Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp: Large nodules on the scalp are indicative of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, also known as Hoffman disease.

Additionally, patches of hair loss could exist. Although bacterial or fungal infections are not the cause of this illness, they might lead to subsequent infections if left untreated.

• Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a kind of folliculitis that arises from ingrown hairs.

It is sometimes referred to as a barber’s itch or razor burn. Razor burn typically results in small, red pimples grouped on the genitalia, lower face, and other regions that are frequently shaved.

While anybody can get razor burns, those with curly or thick hair may be more susceptible.

• Bacterial folliculitis: For bacterial folliculitis, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is the most common causative agent.

However, if S. aureus overgrows on the skin or gets into an open wound, an infection may appear on the scalp or other areas of the body.

• Pityrosporum Folliculitis
• Pseudomonas Folliculitis

Deep or profound scalp folliculitis is listed below:

• Gram-negative folliculitis: The most common cause of gram-negative folliculitis is oral antibiotic use, especially tetracyclines.

It may also arise from prolonged application of topical medications, causing antibiotic-resistant bacteria to increase in many body areas, including the scalp.

• Eosinophilic folliculitis: This condition primarily affects the face, neck, and scalp, resulting in deep-set, pus-filled skin lesions.

Those with compromised immune systems and newborns are susceptible to this type of folliculitis.

According to the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), males are more likely than females to suffer from eosinophilic folliculitis.

• Boils and Carbuncles
• Sycosis Barbae

Scalp folliculitis and hair loss

An uncommon disease called folliculitis decalvans causes your scalp and hair follicles to become inflamed continuously, or chronically.

Scarring develops and hair falls out over time. This illness results in scarring and permanent hair loss (cicatricial alopecia).

Scalp folliculitis symptoms

Small, swollen lumps along the hairline are the first signs of scalp folliculitis.

These lumps get bigger and more inflammatory with time. If left untreated, scalp folliculitis can extend to the back or middle of the head’s hair follicles.

Additional signs of folliculitis consist of:

• Clusters of crusty or pus-filled ulcers
• Closed zits with white heads on them
• Brown or yellow scabby sores
• Swollen, itchy, burning, or sensitive skin
• Slight fever
• Bunches of tiny red pimples
• Some of the bumps have white heads.
• The sensation of burning or stinging
• Anguish or sensitivity
• Itching
• Open wounds
• Blisters filled with pus

Scalp folliculitis causes

Damage to your hair follicles makes them susceptible to bacteria and fungi that cause infections, which is what causes folliculitis.

Numerous factors might harm the hair follicles on your scalp, including:

• Rubbing or scratching your head a lot
• Twisting or pulling at your hair
• Sporting hairstyles like braids or tight ponytails that tug on your hair
• Regularly donning caps
• Shave off your hair
• Donning helmets for sports
• The use of numerous hair products, which might accumulate over time

Additionally, several factors can raise your risk of having scalp folliculitis, such as:

• Experiencing dermatitis or acne
• Having curly or coarse hair as a man
• Having an underlying illness that has compromised their immune system
• Using certain acne treatments, such as antibiotic therapy or steroid creams
• Yeast disease
• Bacterial illness
• Continuous use of topical antibiotics
• Using chlorinated water in a hot tub or spending a lot of time in filthy water
• Usage of some medications, such as corticosteroids

Scalp folliculitis treatment at home: home remedies for scalp folliculitis

Mild episodes of folliculitis are typically manageable at home.

Stopping any activity that might have contributed to the problem in the first place is crucial.

Try taking a few weeks off if you often shave your head, for instance.

You might wish to switch up your shaving routine if your folliculitis improves.

You may also attempt:

• Compress warmly: A warm compress or warm, damp towel applied to your scalp many times a day might assist in relieving irritation and removing any pus.
• Antiseptic dish soap: If the folliculitis on your scalp is near your hairline, wash the affected region twice a day with antibacterial soap, and then pat dry with a fresh towel.
• Anti-pimple shampoo: It could be beneficial to wash your scalp with an anti-dandruff shampoo that contains antifungal ingredients like ciclopirox, ketoconazole, or tea tree oil.
• A cortisone cream: The itching and swelling associated with scalp folliculitis can be reduced with a cortisone cream.
• Antimicrobial cream: To help target germs, you can also try putting an antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, on the affected region.
• Warmed water: Hot water might aggravate your scalp, so avoid using it to wash your hair or scalp. Opt instead for lukewarm water.
• Cleaning: Any hats, pillowcases, or combs that have come into contact with the area of your head that is afflicted should be washed.
• Make sure to take good care of your scalp when your illness has healed.
• To prevent an accumulation of oils and hair products that could irritate or clog your hair follicles, wash your scalp frequently.
• If you currently shave your head with a manual razor, think about getting an electric razor and lathering your head with a calming lotion after every shave.

How is scalp folliculitis diagnosed?

After looking at your skin and getting some information about your medical history, your doctor can make the diagnosis of folliculitis.

For the most part, folliculitis can be diagnosed without a lab test.

But to determine the underlying source of the problem, your doctor may need to take a swab of the affected area.

Medical treatment

Treatment options for folliculitis of the scalp are numerous.

If a person’s severe or persistent scalp folliculitis does not improve with over-the-counter (OTC) or at-home therapies, they may wish to contact a doctor.

A physician can determine the root cause and recommend a successful course of action. These may consist of:

• Both topical and oral antibiotics
• A topical antifungal ointment, a topical steroid with prescription strength
• Antiseptic shampoo
• To eradicate fungi and bacteria from the scalp, use light treatment.
• The use of laser hair removal to eradicate diseased hair follicles and surgically drain big lesions packed with pus

photos of scalp folliculitis treatment can be found online

Complications

Medical emergencies do not arise from scalp folliculitis. People can treat even minor situations at home.

On the other hand, failure to treat scalp folliculitis may result in:

• Huge, pus-filled furuncles or subcutaneous boils
• Dark areas on the skin
• Wounds
• Irreversible hair loss
• Repeated or persistent follicular infections
• A bacterial skin infection or cellulitis

Prevention tips for scalp folliculitis

If you adhere to these basic instructions, you can avoid scalp folliculitis:

• Take a daily bath, especially after exercising.
• Apply light soap.
• Avoid picking at the lumps
• Refrain from shaving too often.
• Don’t tie your hair too firmly.
• Refrain from applying excessive oil since it might block follicles and harbor bacteria.
• Observe good personal hygiene. Never lend out your towel, comb, or any other private belongings.
• Use only spotless hot tubs and pools.

When to see a doctor

If a person’s scalp folliculitis does not get better or gets worse after trying over-the-counter or at-home remedies, they should see a doctor.

Also, people ought to visit a physician if they experience:

• Huge pimples under the skin packed with pus
• Exposed wounds that release pus
• Weak or thin hair
• Areas where hair is lost
• A temperature

Conclusion

Inflammation and infection of the hair follicles are the root causes of a skin condition called folliculitis, which affects a sizable percentage of the population.

Even though a mild illness generally goes away on its own and can be treated at home, you should always talk to your doctor before taking any medicine.

Your doctor can advise you on the best course of action based on your circumstances and the frequency of recurrences.

FAQs

What is the finest shampoo for folliculitis of the scalp?

Scalp folliculitis Shampoo

CLn® Shampoo is a fantastic option if you’re searching for a shampoo that can effectively clean your scalp, which may be prone to several ailments like excess oil, folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and itchy scalp.

How do you get rid of scalp folliculitis?

Your doctor can typically treat a mild case of folliculitis with an antibiotic cream or ointment.

Applying a medicated shampoo to your scalp could be beneficial if you have folliculitis. Deeper skin infections can be treated with oral antibiotics.

Antifungal and antiparasitic medications are potential further treatments.

What triggers scalp folliculitis?

A major cause of folliculitis is bacterial infection of the hair follicles, specifically Staphylococcus aureus (staph).

What kills folliculitis naturally?

Though popular, other essential oils such as chamomile, cinnamon, clove, and lemon may also be helpful.

These essential oils can aid in the infection’s death because they are typically antibacterial.

Is scalp folliculitis normal?

A common skin ailment, folliculitis typically involves infection of the hair follicle. While early diagnosis might help patients with this ailment live better lives, the condition is usually benign.

What soap is good for folliculitis?

Make use of antimicrobial bar soaps like Cetaphil® or Dial®.

Use benzoyl peroxide-containing skin washes. Whether these lumps hurt or cause discomfort If they don’t get better or keep showing up.

What antibiotic kills folliculitis?

First-line oral antibiotics, such as cephalosporins (such as cefadroxil 500 mg twice daily) and dicloxacillin (250 mg four times daily), are frequently utilized.

What is the fastest way to cure folliculitis?

• Put on a warm, damp washcloth. Repeat many times a day to let the region drain and ease any discomfort.
• Use an over-the-counter antibiotic.
• Put on a calming cream or lotion.
• Wash the skin that is impacted
• Shield the skin.

Can salt water cure folliculitis?

It is common for folliculitis to cause heated swelling and irritation.

In addition to killing off topical germs and fungus, a warm compress applied with a clean hand towel soaked and strained in salt water can help the inflamed skin relax and provide comfort.

What shampoo kills folliculitis?

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo, Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, and CLn Shampoo are a few of the best-rated shampoos for folliculitis.

Can folliculitis be cured permanently?

Control and Intervention

Folliculitis decalvans has no known treatment. However, some therapies can lessen swelling, stop scarring, and stop additional hair loss.

The illness can occasionally go into remission, or have no symptoms, but it can also flare up again, with active symptoms.

Treatment is frequently a continuous procedure.

What can be mistaken for folliculitis?

Psoriasis and folliculitis are occasionally confused with other skin disorders, such as fungal skin infections, dermatitis or eczema, pityriasis rosea, dandruff, and acne.

Will hair regrow from folliculitis?

After undergoing folliculitis decalvans, will hair regrow?

Sadly, folliculitis decalvans causes irreversible hair loss.

Seeking treatment as soon as you observe symptoms may help you reduce hair loss.

Bald spots and red, crusty pustules on the scalp are the results of folliculitis decalvans.

What is the best antibiotic for scalp folliculitis?

First-line oral antibiotics, such as cephalosporins (such as cefadroxil 500 mg twice daily) and dicloxacillin (250 mg four times daily), are frequently utilized.

How do you treat scalp folliculitis naturally?

The oils from tea trees, neem, geraniums, and grapefruit seeds work wonders for folliculitis.

You can incorporate tea tree oil into your body wash, lotion, or shampoo.

After lightly massaging it into the afflicted area, let it sit. Do a patch test first to ensure there are no negative responses before using it.

How can I open my scalp’s hair follicles naturally?

Warm oil processing: Any buildup in the follicles is simpler to remove by applying heated oil, such as castor or coconut oil, to the scalp.

Herbal cures: you can clear the follicles by using herbal medicines, including tea tree, peppermint, and rosemary oils.

Does folliculitis smell?

Boils, boils, and subcutaneous tissue irritation are possible side effects.

Additionally, because of the dark, rough skin under the arms, axillary folliculitis results in an unsightly odor and a loss of aesthetic appeal.

Why won’t my scalp folliculitis go away?

However, folliculitis might occasionally be more obstinate.

If you’re unsure of the cause, it can take longer to go away.

A particular kind of medication may not work immediately, or it may disappear and then return.

It might take several months for your skin to return to normal.

How long does it take for scalp folliculitis to go away?

In roughly two weeks, mild folliculitis normally goes away on its own.