Cellulitis and folliculitis: what to know

Folliculitis is inflammation or infection centred on hair follicles. It may look like clusters of pimples, pustules, or small bumps after shaving, friction, sweating, or an ingrown hair. Cellulitis usually causes a broader area of warmth, redness, swelling, and pain rather than separate follicle-sized spots. A clinician may need to examine the area because the conditions can coexist, and irritation alone can resemble infection.

Pause shaving, waxing, picking, and friction over affected skin. Wash gently, use a clean towel, and avoid sharing razors. Arrange assessment if redness is expanding, pain is increasing, pus is collecting, or the area is hot and swollen. Treatment depends on the cause: a clinician may recommend topical antibiotic therapy for a limited bacterial problem or prescribe antibiotics for a deeper infection. Do not use leftover medication.

Seek urgent care for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, fever, chills, confusion, faintness, or marked weakness. A red streak moving away from the affected area also deserves prompt assessment. A scalp eruption with swelling near the eye or severe illness should not be managed at home.

Ask whether the problem is follicle-based or deeper, whether shaving or an ingrown hair contributed, which cleanser is suitable, and what changes mean that treatment needs review.