Seborrheic folliculitis treatment

Folliculitis is inflammation around a hair follicle. On an oily scalp or other oil-prone area, buildup, friction, sweat and microorganisms may contribute to small red bumps, pustules or itching. Similar-looking pimples can result from ingrown hairs, contact irritation or acne, so the appearance and location matter. A clinician may ask about shaving, hats, hair products, recent medicines and whether the bumps are tender or draining.

Clean the area gently, rinse away sweat, and pause products that seem to trap oil or irritate the skin. Do not squeeze the bumps or share razors, towels or brushes. A clinician may recommend topical treatment when the process is limited, or antibiotics for skin infection when bacterial infection is suspected. Use each medicine exactly as directed; antibiotics do not treat every form of folliculitis. Loose clothing and a clean shaving method can reduce rubbing on affected skin.

Seek prompt medical advice for rapidly spreading redness, increasing warmth, marked pain, pus, fever or a tender lump. Arrange review if bumps recur, scar, or cause patchy hair loss. Scalp lesions that do not settle may need examination to distinguish folliculitis from another inflammatory condition.

Do the bumps fit folliculitis, and what trigger is most likely? Should I use a topical antibiotic therapy or another treatment? How should I change shaving or hair-care habits while the skin heals?