Folliculitis that is painful to touch

Inflammation can make a small red bump sore when clothing, a towel or a fingertip touches it. Shaving, waxing, friction, sweat or an ingrown hair may irritate the follicle. Several nearby bumps can merge into a more painful area. Pain alone does not confirm the cause, so a clinician may need to distinguish folliculitis from acne, a boil or another skin problem.

Keep hands off the area and pause hair removal. Clean gently, use a warm clean compress for comfort, and wear loose clothing where possible. Do not squeeze, lance or massage the painful spot. Avoid sharing towels or razors. If pain medicine is being considered, check the label and ask a pharmacist about interactions or conditions that make it unsuitable.

Arrange an examination if pain is worsening, the lump feels deep, drainage persists, redness expands or movement is uncomfortable. Seek prompt care for fever, chills, rapidly spreading redness, facial or eye swelling, severe tenderness, or a soft centre that suggests an abscess. A clinician may consider drainage or prescription treatment when home measures are not enough.

Ask whether the tenderness comes from superficial folliculitis or a deeper collection, whether a culture is useful, and how to prevent another episode.