Cephalexin for folliculitis

Folliculitis can result from bacteria, yeast, shaving, friction, occlusion, or other inflammation. Cephalexin works against certain bacteria, so it should be used only when a clinician thinks a susceptible bacterial infection is present. It may be considered for more extensive bacterial disease, while a small area may need a local treatment or simple measures. Similar-looking bumps can have different causes, which is why using someone else’s prescription can delay the right care.

Take cephalexin only as prescribed, with the schedule and duration given by your clinician. Mention previous reactions to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics, kidney problems, pregnancy, and other medicines before starting it. Keep the skin clean, avoid squeezing bumps, and pause shaving over active lesions. Contact the prescriber about hives, facial swelling, breathing trouble, or severe watery diarrhoea. Do not save or share leftover capsules.

Arrange follow-up if the rash is not settling, keeps returning, or becomes more painful despite treatment. Seek urgent care for fever, rapidly spreading redness, red streaks, a deep tender lump, or feeling faint or very unwell. A clinician may need to reconsider the diagnosis, obtain a sample, or choose a different treatment.

Does my folliculitis appear bacterial, and why is cephalexin appropriate? Should I use a topical treatment as well? What symptoms could signal an allergy, and what should I do if the bumps return after the course?