Folliculitis on the upper lip: what to know

You may notice clusters of small red bumps, pus-filled spots, itching, soreness or a crust near the moustache area. An ingrown hair can trigger a similar bump, while cold sores and acne can look different and need different care. Rubbing, picking and repeated hair removal can keep the follicle inflamed.

Pause shaving, waxing and threading until the skin settles. Wash gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, and avoid scrubs, fragranced products and heavy makeup on the area. Do not squeeze or pierce the spots. A warm, clean compress may ease tenderness. A clinician can decide whether an antiseptic, topical treatment or oral medicine is appropriate; do not put leftover antibiotics near the mouth.

Arrange medical advice if the redness spreads, pain increases, several spots join together, or drainage continues. Seek prompt care for swelling of the lips or face, fever, eye-area swelling, or trouble breathing. Persistent or repeatedly returning bumps deserve assessment because the trigger may be shaving technique, an ingrown hair, acne or another skin condition.

Ask whether this is folliculitis or an ingrown hair, which hair-removal method is least irritating for your skin, and whether a swab or prescription treatment is needed.