Nasal folliculitis: what to know

Folliculitis is inflammation around a hair follicle. Near the nose, it may appear as a sore red bump, crust, tenderness or a pimple-like spot at the nostril edge or on nearby skin. Hair removal, rubbing, nose picking and bacteria can all play a part. A spot inside the nostril needs especially careful assessment because ordinary skin products may not be appropriate there.

Clean the outer area gently, pat it dry, and avoid squeezing, plucking or inserting cotton swabs into the nostril. Do not put a cream inside the nose unless a clinician prescribed it for that purpose. Avoid sharing towels and pause hair removal until the skin settles. A clinician may recommend Topical Antibiotic Therapy or another option after examining the site.

Seek prompt medical care if swelling spreads across the nose or face, pain becomes strong, pus increases, vision changes, or you develop fever. Urgent assessment is needed for rapidly worsening swelling near the eye, severe headache, or feeling very unwell. A persistent or recurring nasal bump also warrants review.

Ask whether the lesion is on the outer skin or inside the nostril, which products are safe for that location, whether hair removal contributed, and what changes should trigger urgent review.