What should you know about hand folliculitis?

You may notice clusters of red or tender bumps, a white tip, itching or mild soreness. The hands have relatively little hair, so bumps can also come from follicles on the backs of the fingers or hands. Irritation from gloves, occlusive products, repeated washing or rubbing can aggravate the area. Similar-looking pimples or skin bumps are not automatically folliculitis; an examination helps separate follicle inflammation from eczema, contact irritation or another infection.

Wash gently with lukewarm water, pat dry and avoid squeezing or picking the bumps. Pause shaving, waxing and fragranced products on the area while it settles. Keep gloves clean and dry, change damp gloves promptly, and reduce rubbing where possible. A clinician may recommend an antiseptic, a topical medicine or treatment for a deeper infection; do not use leftover antibiotics. Read more about [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/) and [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/).

Arrange medical assessment if redness spreads, pain or swelling increases, pus collects, movement becomes difficult, or the area does not improve with gentle care. Seek urgent help for fever, red streaking, rapidly worsening swelling, or feeling very unwell. Repeated episodes may need a review of glove exposure, shaving habits, skin conditions and possible infection.

Ask whether the bumps are folliculitis, whether a swab or prescription treatment is needed, and which hand products or protective gloves are least irritating.