Folliculitis on the labia majora: treatment and care

Folliculitis is inflammation around a hair follicle. On the hair-bearing outer vulva, shaving, waxing, tight clothing, sweat, rubbing, or bacteria entering irritated skin can contribute. It may look like tender red bumps or small spots around hairs. A lump on the vulva can have other causes, so appearance alone cannot confirm folliculitis.

Pause shaving, waxing, and fragranced products until the skin settles. Wash gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, and choose loose breathable underwear. Do not squeeze, lance, or scrub the bumps. A warm, clean compress may ease tenderness. A clinician may recommend a suitable topical treatment or, when a bacterial infection is present, oral medicine; do not apply leftover antibiotics or steroid products to the vulva without advice.

Arrange medical care if the area becomes rapidly more painful, hot, swollen, or drains pus, or if redness spreads. Seek prompt assessment for fever, feeling unwell, difficulty passing urine, blisters, sores, or a deep enlarging lump. Recurrent bumps, scarring, or symptoms that do not settle also need an examination because they may require a different diagnosis or treatment.

Ask whether the bumps are folliculitis, ingrown hairs, or another vulval problem; whether you should stop hair removal; and which cleanser or medicine is appropriate for external skin. Mention pregnancy, allergies, recent sexual symptoms, and any medicines you have already used.