Folliculitis in the private area

Folliculitis is inflammation at a hair follicle. In the pubic region, it may appear as itchy, red, sore, or pus-tipped bumps around hairs. Shaving and waxing can create tiny skin injuries; tight underwear, heat, and moisture can add friction. An ingrown hair, cyst, sexually transmitted infection, or other skin condition can look similar, especially when a lesion is not centred on a hair follicle.

Rinse gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser on external skin, then pat dry. Pause shaving, waxing, and hair-removal creams while bumps are active. Wear loose, breathable underwear and change after sweating. A clean warm compress may ease tenderness. Do not squeeze bumps, insert products into the vagina or anus, or use leftover antibiotics. If sexual contact may be relevant, avoid rubbing the area and ask a clinician to check whether testing is appropriate.

Arrange an examination for recurrent bumps, a draining lump, ulcers, blisters, unusual discharge, painful urination, or lesions that do not settle. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, increasing warmth or swelling, severe pain, fever, or feeling unwell. A deep, enlarging lump near the vaginal opening or anus needs assessment because it may not be folliculitis.

Are the lesions centred on hair follicles, or could they be ingrown hairs, cysts, or another infection? Should I pause a particular hair-removal method? Is a swab or sexual-health test needed? Which products are safe on this external skin?