How to treat blisters after cupping. Treatment with medical cups: myths and application features

Folliculitis is a pustular infectious disease. Such pathological process provoked by bacterial, viral or fungal agents. Occurs on outside head in the hair follicle, sometimes it can penetrate much deeper. The disease is more typical for males, in in rare cases occurs in children and women. When ingested, it acquires chronic nature. What is scalp folliculitis, treatment of this disease, diagnosis, symptoms and prevention is the topic of this article.

What kind of disease is this?

Folliculitis is a purulent-inflammatory disease that manifests itself in the hair follicle. The disease is complex; formations in the form of medium-sized red-pink blisters turn into an abscess with yellow-green liquid after a few days. When in contact with them, a person experiences painful sensations. The pain on the surface of the head is cutting and continuous.

Folliculitis of the scalp is typical for southern countries with roast and humid climate which contributes to the development of infections. Also, similar inflammatory processes occur in people living in unsanitary conditions.

Development of the disease

The follicle affected by the disease has the shape of a ball containing pus. This formation affects not only the bulb, but also the adjacent sebaceous glands. Folliculitis of the scalp occurs in several stages:

Development.
Height.
Transition stage.
Rest stage.

This skin disease is characterized by both superficial and internal defeat. According to statistics, internal inflammation is most often diagnosed.

What contributes to the development of the disease?

The cause of the development of a disease such as folliculitis of the scalp, the photo of which you see above, can be, for example:

Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules, scalp contamination.
Incorrectly or untimely applied tight sealed bandage, which is used for wounds on the head.
Climate conditions ( heat environment).
Use of various drugs.
Injury to the scalp.
Use of tight synthetic quality hats.
Diseases (diabetes mellitus, liver dysfunction) and malnutrition.

The likelihood of infection entering the follicle increases in the presence of minor microtraumas or damage to the scalp.

Types of disease

Any bacteria or fungus can provoke the development of the disease. Folliculitis of the scalp has various shapes course, each of which has its own symptoms and treatment:

Staphylococcal folliculitis. The causative agent is a bacterium that manifests itself externally and internally. This disease can occur in men when shaving their heads bald, as small scratches promote the entry of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. If the disease becomes internal, a boil may form.

Hoffmann's folliculitis of the scalp. The course of this type of disease is quite rare. Its symptoms are practically unknown. It is believed that inflammatory process in some cases it acquires chronic form, this is Hoffmann folliculitis of the scalp. The reasons are associated with occlusion greasy hair follicles. Long course The disease can affect not only the hair follicle, but also parts of the skin around it. This form of the disease has a fairly large affected area. In the affected areas, hair growth stops completely. The neglected process leads to irreversible consequences, since the hair in these places falls out, and its further growth is impossible. Abscesses formed on the skin take a very long time to heal, leaving behind deep scars.

Decalcifying. It is chronic and can develop due to fungi and infections. This type of folliculitis develops mainly in dark areas of the hair.

Candida. A form of folliculitis caused by fungi. It appears as large bubbles in the center of the hair follicle. This disease occurs in patients who are constantly lying down on their back.

Herpetic. The cause of this form of the disease is the herpes virus. First, bubbles form, and then they burst and dry, forming a crust. This type is quite common in the nasolabial triangle in men.

Syphilitic. This appears as a red rash, it is often oval or circle shaped, and hair does not grow in these places.

Symptoms of the disease

Folliculitis manifests itself in the form of pustules with the average size. These pimples are shaped like a cone. There is almost always a reddish outline around the bubble, which indicates an inflammatory process. In most cases, a person does not experience any pain, no itching. The disease progresses within 2-5 days. After this, the blisters burst, the wound dries out, and at this stage itching and peeling are possible.

At internal current folliculitis forms dense subcutaneous acne, they can cause pain. Such nodes also have a rim of inflammation, but it is less noticeable. If you press on the formation, it bursts, releasing pus and bad smell. After this, the wound heals, forming a crust, but the most unpleasant and painful period for humans is the process of maturation of subcutaneous nodes.

Disease in children

This disease is quite dangerous for children in infancy. The development of the disease is usually provoked by bacteria trapped under the skin. The disease manifests itself in the form of blisters filled with white or red liquid.

If parents notice similar symptoms in children, they should consult a doctor immediately. To a greater extent, this disease is treated folk ways, for example oil tea tree. Apply this solution to the affected areas several times a day.

Diagnostics

There is an opinion that such a disease is not dangerous - this is a misconception. It is very important to consult a specialist at the slightest sign; he will diagnose folliculitis of the scalp, determine the causes and treatment in accordance with the stage of the disease. Timely medical therapy will help eliminate the disease faster.

If folliculitis appears, it is important to determine its causative agent, as well as possible diseases, which can provoke its complications. A dermatologist examines the patient, performs dermatoscopy, and samples the discharge from the pimple for examination. This analysis allows us to determine the nature of the disease and its causative agent, this method will help you choose correct treatment and therapy.

How to get rid of this disease?

Therapeutic therapy will be much more effective if the patient begins to fight the disease at the initial stages of the inflammatory process. Although today they are widely used medications against such a severe form of the disease as deep folliculitis of the scalp. There is the following treatment algorithm:

The resulting pimples and the surface of the scalp must be treated antiseptic drugs(salicylic or camphor alcohol(2% solution), brilliant green, "Fukortsin").

A large cluster of deep pimples is opened by a specialist, followed by treatment with an antiseptic solution.
In order for healing to proceed faster, special ointments are used that are used to treat the affected areas of the skin several times a day (for example, ichthyol ointment).
If the disease is severe, the specialist will prescribe a special course of antibiotics based on a study of the fluid in the blisters.
In some cases, medications are used to boost immunity.

To prevent scars from remaining on the skin, the doctor prescribes physical therapy, but only after the disease has subsided.

Folliculitis of the scalp: treatment with folk remedies

A large number of people treat this disease at home. The following effective recipes exist:

Chamomile decoction.
A mixture of herbs.
Woodruff fragrant.
Dandelion infusion.
Burdock infusion.

How to prepare such decoctions?

Traditional medicine can offer huge list remedies to get rid of folliculitis of the scalp. Such medicines very easy to prepare at home.

To prepare a chamomile-based decoction, you need to take a tablespoon of the plant’s flowers and pour one liter of boiling water. Then let it brew. The resulting solution is wiped over the affected areas of the skin.

For herbal decoction required: rose hips and viburnum berries, approximately 150-250 g each, add 150 g of nettle and 25-50 g of bark walnut. Pour everything with water and mix, put on fire and boil for 7-9 minutes. This decoction should sit, then it is added to cottage cheese or honey, mixed and masks are made. This method is quite effective in the treatment of folliculitis. The procedure is performed 2-3 times a day for 10-15 minutes.

For treatment, a paste prepared from the leaves is used; procedures are performed in the form of applying bandages, several times a day.

Dandelion decoction is taken orally, 2-3 glasses per day. In order to prepare it, you need to take the leaves and roots of the plant, chop it and pour boiling water over it. This is an excellent way to treat internal folliculitis.

Burdock infusion is taken 3-4 times a day. To prepare, grind the root of the plant, pour one liter of boiling water over it and let it settle. After this, strain and cool.

Traditional medicine today is a fairly common method of treatment. huge amount diseases.

How to prevent the recurrence of the disease?

Prevention is important in the treatment of a disease such as folliculitis of the scalp. Timely measures will help prevent the development of the disease. The main rule is to maintain personal hygiene of the scalp and hair.

When even small wounds appear on the skin, they must be treated with antiseptic or disinfectants. Much attention Men should do this procedure after shaving their heads.

Conclusion

A disease such as folliculitis of the scalp must be treated; its consequences can have a bad outcome, and if it is accompanied by some other illness, this can seriously complicate the situation. That is why it is necessary when the slightest symptoms consult a doctor immediately. A specialist dermatologist will conduct full complex examinations, will perform a blood test, as well as the fluid contained in the blisters. Such data will help you easily establish the symptoms and type of disease and select necessary medications for treatment.

Folliculitis means “inflammation of the hair follicle.” This process accompanies a group of skin diseases caused by staphylococcal infection. Folliculitis belongs to pyodermatitis - pustular diseases skin, the most common of dermatoses.

Pyoderma accounts for half of the cases of temporary disability due to skin diseases. A considerable proportion of them belong to folliculitis. They can meet at different people, but most often affect representatives of certain professions - miners, builders, metallurgists, transport workers. In this regard, pyodermatitis and folliculitis in particular are socially significant diseases, in the fight against which both the state and employers in the most dangerous industries from the point of view of dermatological morbidity should participate.

Reasons for development

Inflammation of the hair follicles is initiated by pathogenic microorganisms: fungi, mites, viruses and bacteria. It becomes a place of residence for these organisms due to external factors or due to a person's health problems.

Thus, the causes of folliculitis are conventionally divided into:

exogenous (external circumstances);
endogenous (diseases that create optimal conditions for the life of pathogenic organisms).

Among the endogenous factors are:

liver diseases;
obesity;
low hemoglobin;
diabetes;
malnutrition, due to which the body experiences a deficiency of certain substances.

Exogenous causes include:

high ambient temperatures;
hypothermia of the body;
skin injuries (cracks or microcracks);
incorrectly selected clothing (made from “non-breathable” and (or) synthetic materials, tight);
skin pollution caused by poor hygiene or specific human work (work on land, activities requiring contact with certain reagents, chemicals (locksmith, car service employee, etc.).

It would seem how it can become inflamed hair follicle on your hand due to a sore mouth or throat? The point here is pathogenic microorganisms localized in the mouth and throat. They are carried by the blood throughout the body, without even passing through the hands. A weakened immune system is unable to put up a reliable barrier around healthy organs: Bacteria (viruses) reach the hair follicles and establish themselves there.

Folliculitis symptoms

The symptoms of folliculitis will depend on the type of folliculitis you develop. For example, with the superficial type, pustules can reach sizes up to 0.5 mm in diameter and be painless to the touch. As a rule, there is an inflammatory area around them Pink colour, sometimes with a reddish tint to the skin. Approximately on the third day, the ulcers dry out and become covered with a brownish crust, leaving a slight peeling behind. The appearance of pigmentation on the skin may also be present.

The deep form of folliculitis is manifested by more severe damage to the hair follicle. Reddish nodules up to 1 cm in diameter may appear on the skin and are painful. On their surface there is an abscess, which is penetrated by a hair. The abscess can usually open within a few days, become covered with a crust, and the inflammatory nodule disappears over time.

The main complaints of a patient with folliculitis are pain and itching. In some cases there may be an increase lymph nodes, which are located next to the area of inflammation. The patient may also be concerned cosmetic defect on the skin that remains after folliculitis. This could be excess pigmentation or scars.

Staphylococcal folliculitis manifests itself in initial period as a process of inflammation around the hair, starting the development of ostiofolliculitis, or staphylococcal impetigo. These are small-shaped and sized pustules with dense walls, which are pierced in the center by a hair. After a few days, the pustule dries out, forming a cone-shaped crust. yellow color, which is rejected soon.

When conditions are not good for the patient, painful sensations occur in the affected area, which especially bother the patient when large quantities folliculitis; in this case, a pronounced infiltrate appears. Due to the involvement of the tissue surrounding the follicle in the inflammatory process and the fusion of specific elements of the rash, deeper, long-lasting varieties of staphyloderma, carbuncle, furuncle, etc. appear.

In diagnosing a disease such as folliculitis, an important role is played by examining the patient. Rashes with folliculitis are very characteristic and allow a correct diagnosis. Additional measures examinations will help to accurately identify the cause that could lead to the development of the disease.

Features of different types of folliculitis

There are many types of folliculitis, and therefore, from a practical point of view, it is advisable to consider separately the characteristics of each of them.

Herpetic folliculitis. Just like staphylococcal, it is more common in men who shave in the area of the nasolabial triangle and on the chin.
Tick-borne folliculitis. Develops after a tick bite, lasts longer than other varieties, requires specific treatment underlying disease (if the tick poses an epidemiological danger).
Eosinophilic folliculitis. It is observed only in an isolated group of patients (HIV-infected).
Candidal folliculitis. This type of folliculitis usually occurs under occlusive dressings. The risk of developing folliculitis increases with local use under a bandage of drugs from the group of corticosteroids. Also, the risk of the disease is higher in bedridden patients and long-term feverish patients.
Staphylococcal folliculitis. Characteristic for areas where bristly hair grows ( nasolabial triangle, chin). It occurs mainly in men who shave. In severe cases, when the death of hair follicles occurs, after the end of the inflammatory process, connective tissue scars are formed.
Acne syphilide. This type of folliculitis is a consequence of syphilis. It is characterized by the fact that the inflamed follicles acquire a faded red color and, in some cases, are located in groups. Elimination of this pathology is possible only by treating the underlying disease with specific agents.
Gram-negative folliculitis develops in immunocompromised patients who have been taking antibacterial medications for a long time due to acne. It is characterized by the fact that the patient’s condition worsens sharply, which manifests itself in increased acne. Abscesses may form.
Pseudomonas folliculitis is caused by the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This type of folliculitis is also known under another name - folliculitis " hot bath“, since it usually occurs after taking a bath with hot water that has not been sufficiently chlorinated.
Folliculitis, caused by fungi belonging to the genus Pityrosporum, is characteristic of tropical and subtropical climates. It is characterized by an itchy rash of a monomorphic nature (papules and pustules), which is located at the mouths of the follicles. In such patients, scratching is found localized in the shoulders, back, face and neck.
Folliculitis caused by dermatophytes. This infection typically begins with the upper layer of the epidermis, after which the inflammatory process seizes the mouths of the follicles, and then the hair shafts. A complication in this case is dermatophytosis of the scalp.
Gonorrheal folliculitis is the most rare compared to other types of this disease. Its location is foreskin in men and the perineal area in women. Occurs with long-term and untreated gonorrhea. When examining the contents of pustules in such patients, gonococci are found in large quantities.
Occupational folliculitis develops in people of certain professions and is associated with exposure to skin irritants. chemical substances. With this type of disease, rashes are usually localized on back side hands, as well as on the extensor surfaces of the forearms.
Impetigo Bockhardt, despite its name, nevertheless belongs to the group of folliculitis. In this case, hemispherical, superficial pustules appear, which can range in size from a poppy seed to a lentil. Pustules are riddled vellus hair, are arranged in groups. The reason for the development of this folliculitis is increased sweating and maceration of the skin, which is a consequence of the use of warm compresses.
Depilatory folliculitis of smooth skin is another type of disease that occurs mainly in hot countries. Middle-aged men are more susceptible to the disease. Also, this type of folliculitis is characterized by symmetry of the lesion. Inflamed follicles appear evenly on the skin lower limbs. After eliminating folliculitis, characteristic follicular scars remain on the skin.

What folliculitis looks like: photo

The photo below shows how the disease manifests itself in humans.

Diagnostics

Dermatologists must examine the rash and conduct a dermatoscopy, which will show the depth of the lesion. The specialist can also refer the patient to donate discharge from the pustules, which will be required for:

microsporia;
research on fungi;
bacteriological culture;
tests for Treponema pallidum.

There is also a need for differential diagnosis. Folliculitis should be distinguished from pathologies such as syphilis and gonorrhea. In this case, the doctor prescribes:

RPR test.
PCR diagnostics.

If necessary, the specialist will prescribe blood sugar testing and an immunogram. In addition to gonorrhea and syphilis, the disease should be differentiated from the following:

phrynoderma;
streptococcal impetigo;
Hoffmann's perifolliculitis;
drug toxicoderma;
furunculosis;
pink lichen of Zhiber;
nodular cystic acne.

Treatment required pilar folliculitis, as well as ailments on the legs, pubis, face, back, skin, are described below.

Complications

In most cases this disease doesn't cause serious consequences for human life and health. But if there is no proper treatment, the infection penetrates deeply and the disease becomes more complicated. The situation is aggravated if the patient neglects the rules of hygiene, and also if he has significant weakening immune system.

Complications of the disease include the following:

and carbuncles;
dermatophytosis;
formation of scar tissue;
rotting of tissues.

Scars and cicatrices are formed as a result of attempts to squeeze out pus from inflammatory elements.

How to treat folliculitis?

Single ostiofolliculitis can go away on its own, without additional treatment. To avoid complications, you can use antiseptics for skin hygiene.

In more severe cases, the following drugs are used:

Bactericidal ointments and solutions dry the skin and relieve inflammation: Methyluracil, Betadine, Miramistin, zinc ointment. Apply 1-3 times a day;
Antibiotics topically twice a day - effect on staphylococcus (erythromycin, syntomycin ointments, Levomekol)
Rubbing the skin alcohol solutions(boric, salicylic, camphor alcohol, brilliant green, methylene blue);
Antiallergic drugs to reduce itching - Suprastin, Claritin, Lomilan;
Pure ichthyol is applied thin layer for large folliculitis, apply an antiseptic bandage on top (change once a day);
Physiotherapy: UV irradiation, UHF, laser therapy.

Proven methods and recipes of traditional medicine:

Compresses, soothing bandages with thorny leaves. Boil 50 g of root in 0.5 liters of water for half an hour. After an hour, strain. Use the decoction daily.
Chamomile decoction is a valuable remedy for inflammation. Per liter of water - 1 tbsp. l. colors. Steam, let it brew for 30 minutes, strain. Carry out the procedure in the morning, afternoon and before bed.
Prickly tartar. Excellent relieves inflammation. Grind the leaves, grind them, apply the paste to the rash areas. Keep for 30 minutes.
Headbands with woodruff. Porridge from fresh leaves cover the ulcers. Carry out the procedure 2 times a day.
Dandelion infusion. Wash roots, leaves, chop, 2 tbsp. l. raw materials pour 1 tbsp. boiling water, boil for 10–15 minutes. Strain the infusion after brewing for half an hour. Drink a quarter glass 3 times a day.
Burdock decoction. Pour a spoonful of crushed root into 0.5 liters of water. Boil for 10 minutes, let sit for an hour, strain. Accept healing decoction twice a day before meals.
Effective applications. Prepare a decoction: pour 2 tbsp. water 200 g rose hips, the same amount of viburnum, add 100 g nettle, 10 g green shell walnuts. Simmer on fire for 10 minutes. The decoction is infused for a day. Mix 50 g of fresh cottage cheese and honey. Dilute the curd-honey mixture with a decoction, apply it 3 times during the day for 15–20 minutes.

If the lesion is large, then prescribe antimicrobials orally – Erythromycin, Azithromycin, Cephalexin, Amoxicillin. Before using any of these remedies, consult your doctor!

During treatment, avoid contact with water and do not visit the sauna, swimming pool or shower.

Nutrition

Diet is not necessary when folliculitis occurs. But there are accompanying illnesses, in which dietary adjustments are necessary. Patients who are obese or diabetes mellitus, must follow a low-carbohydrate diet.

It is important to adhere to the following dietary rules:

The consumption of animal fats should be limited.
Eliminate from your diet flour products, spices, chocolate, candies, alcohol, strong coffee and tea.
Eat as much as possible fresh vegetables to provide for your body the required volume fiber. You can also eat bran.
Should be included in the diet sufficient quantity protein, including animal origin. Preference should be given to lean meats such as veal, chicken and turkey.
Worth consuming more products, rich in vitamins. Carrots, beets, rose hips, and blueberries will be especially useful.

Prevention

Prevention of folliculitis consists of the need to eliminate factors that can provoke the disease. Also, for prevention purposes, you should use soap with antiseptic effect and regularly treat the skin with benzoyl peroxide, which has excellent disinfectant and keratolytic properties.

For example, like acne, they cause some discomfort. But it becomes much more complicated when it comes to progressive purulent inflammation. If the disease is not treated, it will only get worse.

What is folliculitis?

What is folliculitis? This is a type of pyoderma in which purulent inflammation hair follicle. Ulcers are visible on the skin, surrounding the affected hair.

It all starts with redness and the formation of a red or pink papule at the mouth of the follicle, sometimes causing redness of the surrounding skin. Then an abscess is formed, from the center of which a hair emerges. When the abscess opens, erosion or a crust forms in its place.

Kinds

Types of folliculitis mainly depend on the shape, location and causative agent of the disease:

There are many pathogens that provoke folliculitis. All of them can be combined into one: the cause of inflammation of the hair follicle is a bacterium, virus, fungus or mite. Without associated factors disease formation is impossible:

Unfavorable climatic conditions.
Lack of skin hygiene.
Hypothermia of the skin.
Injuries, abrasions, cracks and other micro-violations of the integrity of the skin.
Wearing synthetic fabric, tight underwear, etc.
Unbalanced diet.
Anemia.
Effects of creams and ointments on the skin.
Diabetes.
Side effects of medications.
Liver damage.
Chronic diseases: gingivitis, periodontal disease, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, caries, obesity, etc.

Symptoms and signs of hair follicle folliculitis

The inflammatory process begins and develops according to the following symptoms and signs of folliculitis of the hair follicles:

Redness of the skin around the hair with the subsequent formation of an abscess.
Formation of infiltrate.
Formation of pus in the pustule.
Elevation of a spherical or cone-shaped inflamed area above the skin.
The size of the formation is up to 8 mm.
Persistence of redness even after opening the abscess.
The number of ulcers depends on the person’s immunity. They can be single formations or massive.
The formations itch.
Lymph nodes become enlarged (lymphadenitis).

Folliculitis in children

Folliculitis in children occurs quite rarely due to the lack of abundant hairline on the skin. However, disruptions in metabolism or genetic predisposition are possible, which can provoke an unwanted disease.

Folliculitis in adults

In adults, folliculitis occurs quite often due to a polluted atmosphere, dusty work, and contact with chemicals. Women experience hormonal imbalances and... Men often have poor skin hygiene. Sycosis often occurs in men, and it in turn provokes folliculitis.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of folliculitis is carried out by a dermatologist, who examines the skin and then prescribes additional tests:

Blood analysis.
Sowing the contents of pustular formations.
Gram smear analysis.
Skin biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment of folliculitis is carried out in three directions: medication, physiotherapy and folk medicine. You should consult a doctor, despite the fact that treatment is carried out at home.

How to treat folliculitis? The initial stage of the disease can be easily eliminated with the usual medication:

Treatment with fucorcin, camphor, salicylic alcohol, brilliant green.
Compresses made from ichthyol ointment.
Sulfonamides and antibiotics.
Immunomodulators: Immunal, Vitaferon, Timalin.
Acyclovir for herpetic nature.
Itraconazole, Fluconazole, Terbinafine, antifungal ointments with a fungal nature.
Mupirocin, Cephalexin, Methicillin, Erythromycin for staphylococcal nature.
Ciprofloxacin for pseudomonas folliculitis.

The patient is undergoing UV treatment. If diabetes mellitus is the provoking factor, then the patient adheres to a low-carbohydrate diet. In case of multiple skin rashes, the doctor opens the papules and removes their contents.

How to treat folliculitis at home? Folk remedies are used here:

Pour 1 tbsp into a liter of boiling water. chamomile, leave for 30 minutes. Use strained.
Add a spoonful of burdock to 0.5 liters of water, cook for 10 minutes, leave for an hour. Use 2 times a day.
Add 2 tbsp to a glass of boiling water. dandelion roots and leaves. Cook for 15 minutes, leave for half an hour. Drink ¼ glass three times a day.
It is not allowed to squeeze out ulcers, wash the affected areas, or use moistened bandages on infected areas.

Life forecast

Folliculitis does not kill, so when asked how long patients live, the answer is: a full life. However, the life prognosis worsens due to those complications that arise as a result of an incurable or poorly treated disease:

Dermatophytosis.
Follicular scar.
Lymphadenitis.
Abscesses.
Carbuncles.
Kidney damage.
Hidradenitis.
Pneumonia.
Brain damage.

Prevention of the disease allows you not only to help yourself heal, but also to prevent the factors of its development:

Choose the right hygiene products.
Have regular sexual partners.
Maintain skin hygiene throughout the body.
Do not wear fabric that irritates your skin.
Strengthen immunity.
Treat infectious diseases of the body.
Limit contact with chemicals and polluted air.

The article talks about folliculitis, a disease that causes decay around the hair roots. After reading the article you will know how they differ different types folliculitis from each other. What microorganisms and factors contribute to their appearance. What diseases complicate the course of skin disease. You will learn to distinguish staphylococcal folliculitis from other types. Get recipes for infusion, decoction and lotion for these purulent pimples.

What is folliculitis?

This inflammatory disease, affecting hair follicles. The pathology looks like a small red pimple, but with a purulent yellow-green rim around the hair. Old pimples that have dried out and those from which pus has come out look like red bumps. There are no hairs in them due to the death of the roots.

For reference: acne vulgaris, a rash on the facial skin that occurs in adolescents, is also a type of folliculitis.

Follicular pustules can appear in anyone. The rash occurs in areas of the body where there are pores with hairs and sebaceous glands. Usually this is the skin of the face and scalp, chest, back, buttocks, groin and thighs. The pathology never affects the palms, soles or eyelids because these areas do not have sebaceous glands.

Depending on the cause and severity of the disease, a person may not need treatment as the skin problem resolves spontaneously. Or, on the contrary, he may require a course of treatment with powerful antibiotics - when the infection covers a large area of the skin and turns into a boil.

Reasons for appearance

The cause of purulent infection of the hair follicles (follicles) can be Staphylococcus aureus or white Staphylococcus bacteria. Sometimes the pathology is caused by a yeast-like fungus. Pathogenic microorganisms penetrate the skin during shaving and any types of injury.

The most common type is sterile folliculitis. This form of pathology often occurs when the skin stops breathing, which happens when makeup is not removed sufficiently or due to wearing tight clothes. synthetic clothing. Intradermal fat accumulates and becomes blocked in the pores, thereby provoking inflammation of the follicles.

Therefore, you have a high chance of getting folliculitis if you:

Use a hot tub or go to a swimming pool that is not properly treated with chlorine.
Wear tight clothes from artificial fabrics.
Do not remove makeup for a long time or use creams that are not suitable for your skin type.
Have a scratch infected with staphylococcus/fungus or surgical wound, due to which pathogenic microorganisms quickly penetrate inside.
Have diabetes or hepatitis, which reduce your body's ability to fight infection.

Note! The cause of this form of skin inflammation may be long-term use antibiotics, poor nutrition and smoking. These factors worsen metabolism in the body and reduce protective properties immunity, which in turn negatively affects appearance skin.

Classification

Depending on the depth of skin damage and the duration of the disease, folliculitis is divided into:

Superficial (ostiofolliculitis) - affects only the mouths of the follicles.
Deep - affects both the outer and connective layers of the skin.
Decalving (epilating) - most often observed in men on the head.
Chronic - there are elements of a rash on the skin different stages development.

Surface

Initially, pustules appear the size of a pinhead or slightly larger. They are surrounded by a red rim, with a hair sticking out in the center of each. Around the 3rd day, the contents of the pimples dry out, leaving a crust that peels off without a trace. During this period, a person may experience itching and burning.

Origin of superficial folliculitis:

Bacterial. Small white pimples break out on the skin. Typically, if a rash appears on the chin and under the nose, this pathology is called “barber’s itch” or sycosis. Staphylococcus bacteria penetrate into the mouth of the follicle when shaving or traumatizing the skin. The infection can also affect the skin under the arms and pubic area.
Pseudomonas. Caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pseudomonas aeruginosa). People are exposed to these microbes by taking hot tubs and swimming in pools with improperly adjusted chlorine levels and acid-base balance water. Due to insufficient disinfection of the aquatic environment, after swimming, for 4 days, a person may develop a rash on the body in the form of red, round, itchy nodules. Some of them subsequently transform into pustules with purulent contents. Usually the rash is pronounced in areas of the body that were covered by a swimsuit or swimming trunks.
Fungal infection. Common among adolescents and adult men. The disease is caused by the yeast-like fungus Pityrosporum, which lives on the skin around the ducts of the sebaceous glands. Due to the decrease protective function skin (this is facilitated by poor nutrition, bad habits, heredity, hormonal changes) the fungus grows and penetrates to the roots of the hairs. As a result, chronic, red, itchy pustules appear on the skin.

Deep

Initially, large painful bright red nodules form around the hairs. Then they begin to fester. After a week, some of them quickly disappear (dissolve and dry out), leaving behind small scars. Others ripen and open, after the release of purulent contents they leave funnel-shaped ulcers, after healing of which scars remain. The hair in this place no longer grows, since its roots have been completely damaged by the purulent process.

Pathology can manifest itself in various forms:

Pseudofollicular barbe. Appears in curly-haired people. With this type of skin change, the ends of curly hairs can grow into the pores, causing inflammation and itching. The disease is not of infectious origin.
Gram negative. Develops in people undergoing long-term antibacterial therapy. Antibiotics change the normal balance of bacteria in the nose, leading to an overgrowth harmful microorganisms, called gram-negative bacteria(diplococci). In some patients, as soon as they stop taking antibiotics, the microflora is restored. In others, the gram-negative organisms spread to the skin around the nose and mouth, causing new, severe acne.
Furuncle. Occurs when the mouth is deeply infected with staphylococcus bacteria. Acute purulent inflammation of the follicle appears suddenly in the form of a pink pustule in the center with a purulent core. The skin surrounding the pustule is usually red and swollen. Over time, the formation begins to fester, enlarges and becomes painful. After the purulent core comes out, a red funnel remains, which heals within a few days. Small ulcers usually heal without scars, while large ones leave noticeable scars.
Carbuncle- the term is used when several boils form close to each other on a small area of skin. Typically, this pathology appears on the back of the neck, shoulders, back or hips. Carbuncle causes more severe infection, how single boil. For this reason, the pathology heals more slowly, leaving behind scars.
Eosinophilic. This type mainly affects people with HIV/AIDS. Symptoms include intense itching and the constant appearance of inflamed red spots on the skin, which then develop into pimples filled with pus. Ulcers appear on the head, face, neck and upper torso. After healing, hyperpigmentation occurs in their place (the skin becomes darker than normal). Exact reason eosinophilic folliculitis is unknown. But it can be caused by a yeast-like fungus that usually provokes folliculitis - pityrosporum.

Decalvating

Another name is epilating. Most often it affects the scalp in men, forming areas of baldness. The cause of the development of the decalvating form is primary and acquired immunodeficiency. Pathological changes on the scalp begin with the formation of blisters.

At this time, the person does not feel pain, but the condition of his skin worsens. Instead of purulent pimple a brown crust appears, after its removal a scar remains. As a result, a bald spot forms in the area affected by folliculitis. The hair no longer grows, since its roots have been completely destroyed by the purulent process.

Chronic

It is characterized by the constant appearance of new inflammations of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. When examining the skin of a person with chronic folliculitis, you can observe acne at different stages of development:

Pink and red papules that have just appeared (rise above the skin level).
Blisters with purulent contents transformed from papules.
Drying pimples with a yellow-brown crust.
Scarring formations.

Pathological changes most often affect those areas of the body that are constantly rubbed or injured by something. This happens to people who, as part of their job, have to wear rough clothing, for example, workers in hot shops. Typically, in such people, folliculitis occurs on the shoulders and neck.

The risk group also includes elderly people with cerebral atherosclerosis(narrowing of the lumens cerebral arteries due to the deposition of cholesterol in the thickness of their walls). This diagnosis is often accompanied by the appearance of seborrhea and skin itching, so folliculitis spreads to the scalp.

For reference: Chronic course folliculitis also contributes to diabetes mellitus, pathology endocrine glands, oncology.

Sycosis is considered a common form of long-term folliculitis. Purulent pustules cover the face (chin and mustache area). Most often, this condition occurs in men, since infection of the mouths of the follicles occurs when shaving. In women, for this reason, pathological changes affect the armpits, lower legs and pubis.

A dermatologist can diagnose follicle infection by examining the patient's skin and taking into account his overall health. But in difficult cases When the pathology intensively progresses, making a diagnosis requires actions to clarify its origin and identify the presence of concomitant diseases.

For this purpose, patients are prescribed:

Dermatoscopy- a many times enlarged image of a skin formation is displayed on a computer screen, which simplifies the process of studying the object; in this case, the depth of penetration of the pathology is examined.
Biopsy- examination of the elements of infected skin allows us to identify the causative agent of the infection and, thus, exclude the syphilitic or gonorrheal origin of the disease.
Blood analysis(general, biochemical, sugar) - allows you to confirm the presence or absence of diseases that could provoke the development and complication of skin disease (diabetes mellitus, hormonal disbalance, speed).
Immunogram- required in difficult cases (folliculitis often causes boils and abscesses) to assess the state of the human immune system.

Note! Staphylococcal folliculitis is usually diagnosed based on the typical clinical picture(stages of development: appearance of papules - their transformation into purulent pustules - drying out of the lid and peeling off). Laboratory research allow diagnosing folliculitis caused by other pathogens (Demodex mite, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pityrosporum fungus, Treponema pallidum, Gonococcus).

Treatment

There are many treatment options and skin care recipes to get rid of folliculitis, for example:

Mild cases of bacterial folliculitis. Recommended home therapy. Commonly used antibacterial agents topical products such as benzoyl peroxide, anti-acne cosmetics Clearasil, Proactiv, Chlorhexidine, or Hibiclens and Phisoderm cleansers (use morning and evening).
Severe pathology. Treat by applying 2 times a day local antibiotics(Clindamycin lotion). They undergo a 5-day course of therapy with oral antibiotics (Cephalexin, Dicloxacillin, Doxycycline).
Fungal folliculitis. Wash your hair 2 times a day with antifungal shampoo Nizoral or Ketoconazole. Treatment of persistent forms of fungal folliculitis can be supplemented by the use of antifungal cream (Lotrimin, Lamisil) and antifungal tablets (Fluconazole, Diflucan).
Hyperpigmentation due to folliculitis. Treated with 4% Hydroquinone cream, 15-20% azelaic acid.

In the video, a dermatologist explains which ointments and how are best used to treat boils (deep folliculitis):

Note! No therapy is equally effective for all people. Therefore, the doctor prescribes treatment for folliculitis on an individual basis, taking into account the cause that provoked its appearance.

Folk remedies

Treatment skin pathologies at home is based on herbal medicine, which has shown its effectiveness not only for superficial, but also for deep folliculitis.

Chamomile infusion for washing

Ingredients:

Chamomile - 1 tbsp.
Boiling water - 1 l.

How to cook: Place the herb in an enamel container and pour boiling water over it. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then strain.

How to use: Morning and evening, wash the affected areas of the skin with the infusion.

Result: The infusion relieves inflammation, disinfects and heals ulcers.

Thorn decoction for oral administration

Ingredients:

Spine root - 30 g.
Boiling water - 0.5 l.

How to cook: Grind the root of the plant, pour boiling water over it, then simmer the broth over low heat for 5 minutes. Let cool and strain.

How to use: Drink 250 ml of decoction daily (the dose is for 2 days) on an empty stomach.

Result: The decoction relieves inflammation, suppresses the development of pathogenic flora, and is effective for deep folliculitis (furuncle, abscess).

Recipe for lotion with Metronidazole tablets

Ingredients:

"Metronidazole" - 5 tablets. 250 mg each.
Sterile water (sold in a pharmacy) - 100 ml.

How to cook: Grind the tablets into powder, add water, stir until a homogeneous consistency is obtained.i>

How to use: Treat skin damaged by folliculitis with the solution 2 times a day.

Result: The lotion disinfects wounds, dries out the rash, thereby preventing complications of superficial folliculitis.

Nutrition

Consume foods that help improve immunity and inhibit inflammatory processes.

Include in your menu:

Buckwheat porridge and rice.
Fresh vegetable salads.
Fresh berries and fruits.
Lean meat dishes.
Cottage cheese, hard cheese.
Fish of different varieties.
Carrots, sorrel, spinach.
Raisins, bananas, apricots.
Beans, peas, soybeans.

During treatment, exclude from your diet:

Fatty, spicy, salty foods.
Sweet and yeast baked goods.
Alcohol.
Coffee chocolate.

Important! Omega acids strengthen the immune system well, so when preparing any porridge, add flax seeds to it. You can drink 1 tbsp daily on an empty stomach. linseed oil.

Question answer

At the beginning small pimples appeared in the décolleté area, then on the forearms, the dermatologist diagnosed folliculitis. Attributed salicylic alcohol for rubbing, “Fukortsin” and “Diazolin”, but nothing helped. What to do?

Visit a gastroenterologist and gynecologist, they will prescribe tests for you, and based on the results obtained, suitable treatment. Get ready for an ultrasound abdominal cavity and gastroendoscopy.

Whether there is a side effects from topical hormonal drugs?
Yes, the list of the most common ones includes: itching, burning, dry skin, discoloration, as well as thinning and wrinkling of the skin.

How to get rid of acne marks after folliculitis?
The problem can be solved by laser skin resurfacing and taking immunomodulators, which should only be prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication can only worsen your skin condition.

The child was diagnosed with folliculitis at the age of 1 year and was prescribed Baneocin ointment, but it did not help. What other drugs can be used to treat young children?

Only a doctor can answer this question after examination and study. general condition child. Treating children yourself is unsafe for their health.

How to treat folliculitis at home?

Get effective scheme Treatment of this disease is possible only after examination by a doctor and tests. Treatment of folliculitis without identifying the cause of its occurrence will lead to a worsening of the patient’s condition. Therefore, consult a doctor. Or read the material above. Perhaps you only have a disease initial stage and you can quickly deal with it at home.

What to remember:

Folliculitis can be superficial or deep; its appearance is promoted by bacteria, fungus and external factors (make-up, wearing rough clothing).
If purulent rash caused by staphylococci on the skin, the doctor will diagnose this by external examination of the patient; in other cases, laboratory and differential diagnostics will be needed.
Add drug treatment can be done using folk recipes.
Lotion with Metronidazole tablets helps well against acne (see the recipe in the “Folk Remedies” section).
When treating folliculitis, you should eat only foods that help strengthen the immune system.

Pyoderma accounts for half of the cases of temporary disability due to skin diseases. A considerable proportion of them belong to folliculitis. They can occur in different people, but most often they affect representatives of certain professions - miners, builders, metallurgists, and transport workers. In this regard, pyodermatitis and folliculitis in particular are socially significant diseases, in the fight against which both the state and employers in the most dangerous industries from the point of view of dermatological morbidity should participate.

Reasons for development

Thus, the causes of folliculitis are conventionally divided into:

exogenous (external circumstances);
endogenous (diseases that create optimal conditions for the life of pathogenic organisms).

Among the endogenous factors are:

liver diseases;
obesity;
low hemoglobin;
diabetes;
malnutrition, due to which the body experiences a deficiency of certain substances.

Exogenous causes include:

high ambient temperatures;
hypothermia of the body;
skin injuries (cracks or microcracks);
incorrectly selected clothing (made from “non-breathable” and (or) synthetic materials, tight);
skin contamination caused by poor hygiene or specific human work (work on the ground, activities requiring contact with certain reagents, chemicals (locksmith, car service employee, etc.).

Sometimes folliculitis is initiated by strange, not at first glance, reasons: caries, tonsillitis, gingivitis, pharyngitis, periodontal disease.

It would seem, how can a hair follicle on the arm become inflamed due to a sore mouth or throat? The point here is pathogenic microorganisms localized in the mouth and throat. They are carried by the blood throughout the body, without even passing through the hands. A weakened immune system is unable to put up a reliable barrier around healthy organs: bacteria (viruses) reach the hair follicles and settle there.

Folliculitis symptoms

The symptoms of folliculitis will depend on the type of folliculitis you develop. For example, with the superficial type, pustules can reach sizes up to 0.5 mm in diameter and be painless to the touch. As a rule, there is a pink inflammatory area around them, sometimes with a reddish tint to the skin. Approximately on the third day, the ulcers dry out and become covered with a brownish crust, leaving a slight peeling behind. The appearance of pigmentation on the skin may also be present.

The main complaints of a patient with folliculitis are pain and itching. In some cases, there may be enlargement of the lymph nodes that are located near the area of inflammation. The patient may also be concerned about a cosmetic defect on the skin that remains after folliculitis. This could be excess pigmentation or scars.

Staphylococcal folliculitis manifests itself in the initial period as a process of inflammation around the hair, beginning the development of ostiofolliculitis, or staphylococcal impetigo. These are small-shaped and sized pustules with dense walls, which are pierced in the center by a hair. After a few days, the pustule dries out, forming a cone-shaped yellow crust, which is quickly rejected.

If conditions are not good for the patient, painful sensations occur in the affected area, which especially bothers the patient if there is a large number of folliculitis; in this case, a pronounced infiltrate appears. Due to the involvement of the tissue surrounding the follicle in the inflammatory process and the fusion of specific elements of the rash, deeper, long-lasting varieties of staphyloderma, carbuncle, furuncle, etc. appear.

In diagnosing a disease such as folliculitis, an important role is played by examining the patient. Rashes with folliculitis are very characteristic and allow a correct diagnosis. Additional examination measures will help to accurately identify the cause that could lead to the development of the disease.

Features of different types of folliculitis

There are many types of folliculitis, and therefore, from a practical point of view, it is advisable to consider separately the characteristics of each of them.

Herpetic folliculitis. Just like staphylococcal, it is more common in men who shave in the area of the nasolabial triangle and on the chin.
Tick-borne folliculitis. It develops after a tick bite, lasts longer than other varieties, and requires specific treatment of the underlying disease (if the tick poses an epidemiological danger).
Eosinophilic folliculitis. It is observed only in an isolated group of patients (HIV-infected).
Candidal folliculitis. This type of folliculitis usually occurs under occlusive dressings. The risk of developing folliculitis increases with topical use of drugs from the group of corticosteroids under a bandage. Also, the risk of the disease is higher in bedridden patients and long-term feverish patients.
Staphylococcal folliculitis. Characteristic of areas where bristly hair grows (nasolabial triangle, chin). It occurs mainly in men who shave. In severe cases, when the death of hair follicles occurs, after the end of the inflammatory process, connective tissue scars are formed.
Acne syphilide. This type of folliculitis is a consequence of syphilis. It is characterized by the fact that the inflamed follicles acquire a faded red color and, in some cases, are located in groups. Elimination of this pathology is possible only by treating the underlying disease with specific agents.
Gram-negative folliculitis develops in immunocompromised patients who have been taking antibacterial medications for a long time due to acne. It is characterized by the fact that the patient’s condition worsens sharply, which manifests itself in increased acne. Abscesses may form.
Pseudomonas folliculitis is caused by the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This type of folliculitis is also known by another name - “hot bath” folliculitis, because it usually occurs after taking a bath in hot water that has not been sufficiently chlorinated.
Folliculitis, caused by fungi belonging to the genus Pityrosporum, is characteristic of tropical and subtropical climates. It is characterized by an itchy rash of a monomorphic nature (papules and pustules), which is located at the mouths of the follicles. In such patients, scratching is found localized in the shoulders, back, face and neck.
Folliculitis caused by dermatophytes. This infection typically begins with the upper layer of the epidermis, after which the inflammatory process seizes the mouths of the follicles, and then the hair shafts. A complication in this case is dermatophytosis of the scalp.
Gonorrheal folliculitis is the most rare compared to other types of this disease. Its location is the foreskin in men and the perineal area in women. Occurs with long-term and untreated gonorrhea. When examining the contents of pustules in such patients, gonococci are found in large quantities.
Occupational folliculitis develops in people of certain professions and is associated with exposure to irritating chemicals on the skin. With this type of disease, rashes are usually localized on the back of the hands, as well as on the extensor surfaces of the forearms.
Impetigo Bockhardt, despite its name, nevertheless belongs to the group of folliculitis. In this case, hemispherical, superficial pustules appear, which can range in size from a poppy seed to a lentil. The pustules are permeated with vellus hair and are arranged in groups. The reason for the development of this folliculitis is increased sweating and maceration of the skin, which is a consequence of the use of warm compresses.
Depilatory folliculitis of smooth skin is another type of disease that occurs mainly in hot countries. Middle-aged men are more susceptible to the disease. Also, this type of folliculitis is characterized by symmetry of the lesion. Inflamed follicles appear evenly on the skin of the lower extremities. After eliminating folliculitis, characteristic follicular scars remain on the skin.

What folliculitis looks like: photo

The photo below shows how the disease manifests itself in humans.

Diagnostics

microsporia;
research on fungi;
bacteriological culture;
tests for Treponema pallidum.

There is also a need for differential diagnosis. Folliculitis should be distinguished from pathologies such as syphilis and gonorrhea. In this case, the doctor prescribes:

RPR test.
PCR diagnostics.

If necessary, the specialist will prescribe blood sugar testing and an immunogram. In addition to gonorrhea and syphilis, the disease should be differentiated from the following:

phrynoderma;
streptococcal impetigo;
Hoffmann's perifolliculitis;
drug toxicoderma;
furunculosis;
pink lichen of Zhiber;
nodular cystic acne.

The treatment required for hair folliculitis, as well as ailments on the legs, pubis, face, back, and skin, is described below.

Complications

In most cases, this disease does not cause serious consequences for human life and health. But if there is no proper treatment, the infection penetrates deeply and the disease becomes more complicated. The situation is aggravated if the patient neglects the rules of hygiene, and also if he has a significant weakening of the immune system.

Complications of the disease include the following:

furunculosis and carbuncles;
dermatophytosis;
formation of scar tissue;
rotting of tissues.

Scars and cicatrices are formed as a result of attempts to squeeze out pus from inflammatory elements.

How to treat folliculitis?

Single ostiofolliculitis can go away on its own, without additional treatment. To avoid complications, you can use antiseptic skin hygiene products.

In more severe cases, the following drugs are used:

Bactericidal ointments and solutions dry the skin and relieve inflammation: Methyluracil, Betadine, Miramistin, zinc ointment. Apply 1-3 times a day;
Antibiotics topically twice a day - effect on staphylococcus (erythromycin, syntomycin ointments, Levomekol)
Wiping the skin with alcohol solutions (boric, salicylic, camphor alcohol, brilliant green, methylene blue);
Antiallergic drugs to reduce itching - Suprastin, Claritin, Lomilan;
Pure ichthyol is applied in a thin layer to large folliculitis, and an antiseptic bandage is applied on top (change once a day);
Physiotherapy: UV irradiation, UHF, laser therapy.

Proven methods and recipes of traditional medicine:

Compresses, soothing bandages with thorny leaves. Boil 50 g of root in 0.5 liters of water for half an hour. After an hour, strain. Use the decoction daily.
Chamomile decoction is a valuable remedy for inflammation. Per liter of water - 1 tbsp. l. colors. Steam, let it brew for 30 minutes, strain. Carry out the procedure in the morning, afternoon and before bed.
Prickly tartar. Excellent relieves inflammation. Grind the leaves, grind them, apply the paste to the rash areas. Keep for 30 minutes.
Headbands with woodruff. Cover the ulcers with a paste of fresh leaves. Carry out the procedure 2 times a day.
Dandelion infusion. Wash roots, leaves, chop, 2 tbsp. l. raw materials pour 1 tbsp. boiling water, boil for 10–15 minutes. Strain the infusion after brewing for half an hour. Drink a quarter glass 3 times a day.
Burdock decoction. Pour a spoonful of crushed root into 0.5 liters of water. Boil for 10 minutes, let sit for an hour, strain. Take the healing infusion twice a day before meals.
Effective applications. Prepare a decoction: pour 2 tbsp. water 200 g of rose hips, the same amount of viburnum, add 100 g of nettle, 10 g of green walnut shells. Simmer on fire for 10 minutes. The decoction is infused for a day. Mix 50 g of fresh cottage cheese and honey. Dilute the curd-honey mixture with a decoction, apply it 3 times during the day for 15–20 minutes.

If the lesion is large, then oral antimicrobial drugs are prescribed - Erythromycin, Azithromycin, Cephalexin, Amoxicillin. Before using any of these remedies, consult your doctor!

During treatment, avoid contact with water and do not visit the sauna, swimming pool or shower.

Nutrition

Diet is not necessary when folliculitis occurs. But there are concomitant diseases for which dietary adjustments are necessary. Patients who are obese or have diabetes should follow a low-carbohydrate diet.

It is important to adhere to the following dietary rules:

The consumption of animal fats should be limited.
Eliminate flour products, spices, chocolate, sweets, alcohol, strong coffee and tea from your diet.
Eat as many fresh vegetables as possible to provide your body with the required amount of fiber. You can also eat bran.
You should include a sufficient amount of protein in your diet, including animal protein. Preference should be given to lean meats such as veal, chicken and turkey.
It is worth eating more foods rich in vitamins. Carrots, beets, rose hips, and blueberries will be especially useful.

Prevention

Prevention of folliculitis consists of the need to eliminate factors that can provoke the disease. Also, for prevention purposes, you should use soap with an antiseptic effect and regularly treat the skin with benzoyl peroxide, which has excellent disinfecting and keratolytic properties.