What should you know about superficial bacterial folliculitis?

Most people with superficial bacterial folliculitis notice small red or pus-filled spots centred on hairs. It may follow shaving, friction, sweating, tight clothing, or blocked skin. The rash can affect the scalp, beard area, chest, back, buttocks, or legs. Similar-looking bumps can come from ingrown hairs, acne, irritation, or a non-bacterial follicle problem, so the pattern and examination matter. You can read more about [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/), and [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/).

Keep the area clean and dry, pause shaving or waxing until the skin settles, and avoid squeezing or sharing towels and razors. Loose clothing can reduce rubbing. A clinician may recommend [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) for a limited infection, or [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) when a wider or deeper infection needs treatment. Use medicines only as directed, since the right treatment depends on the cause and extent.

Seek medical advice if redness spreads, pain increases, larger boils form, fever develops, or the rash keeps returning. Prompt review is also sensible for facial or scalp involvement with swelling, or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Urgent care is needed for rapidly spreading redness, severe illness, or swelling near the eye.

Ask whether the bumps are bacterial folliculitis or [Ingrown Hairs](/symptoms/ingrown-hairs/), whether a swab is useful, which product to apply, how long to use it, and how to prevent shaving-related recurrences.