Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles. This image shows a typical case of folliculitis. This image displays a close-up of folliculitis. The lesions of folliculitis may have a slight crust on top. The lesions of folliculitis may be pus-filled, signifying an infection. This image displays a close-up of folliculitis with one of the lesions being pus-filled. The lesions of scalp folliculitis can be very itchy, resulting in scratching and scabs. This image displays very small pus-filled lesions centered on the hair follicles. This image displays numerous hair follicles that have been infected with bacteria, causing folliculitis. This image displays small pus-filled lesions of folliculitis that have dried up and been scratched. Staphylococcal folliculitis is found on the scalp and cheek. This image displays a single small, pus-filled lesion of folliculitis. This image displays folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles) lesions in an immunocompromised person. This image displays numerous pus-filled lesions at the hair follicles typical of folliculitis. These are the pus-filled lesions typically seen in folliculitis. Folliculitis with CA-MRSA (community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcal aureus) confirmed by culture of the affected area.
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Folliculitis  Information for adults

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Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles.
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Overview
Folliculitis is a skin condition caused by an inflammation of one or more hair follicles in a limited area. It typically occurs in areas of irritation, such as sites of shaving, skin friction, or rubbing from clothes. In most cases of folliculitis, the inflamed follicles are infected with bacteria, especially with Staphylococcus organisms, that normally live on the skin.

The most common causes of damage to hair follicles and subsequent infection include:
  • Irritation from shaving
  • Friction from tight clothing
  • A pre-existing skin condition, such as eczema, acne, or another dermatitis (inflammation of the skin)
  • Injuries to the skin, such as abrasions
  • Extended contact from plastic bandages or adhesive tape
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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