Razor burn. Razor bumps. Folliculitis. Whatever you want to call it, this condition is as common as it is irritating.
But what causes it, and how can you get rid of it?
Today, we’re discussing this irritating skin condition and giving you tips on how to reduce your risk and treat it when you’re already suffering.
What is Folliculitis?
Folliculitis is an infection that occurs when bacteria and other organisms on our skin invade damaged hair follicles and cause inflammation. It’s typically harmless and goes away on its own, but people with compromised immune systems might encounter complications.
What are the symptoms of Folliculitis?
Folliculitis symptoms vary from person to person and often depend on what caused it in the first place. It might look like a bumpy red rash or an acne breakout. On lighter skin tones, the inflamed hair follicles are often pink, while folks with a darker complexion may notice raised bumps that are darker than the surrounding skin. These bumps can be solid or filled with pus, giving them the appearance of whiteheads.
While these blemishes may look like ingrown hairs, they tend to be much more itchy and tender to the touch.
Unfortunately, this infection can spread to other hair follicles, eventually forming painful, crusty scabs.
Are there different types of Folliculitis?
The different types of folliculitis are determined by the cause of the infection. Bacterial folliculitis is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. However, other bacterial forms come from species that live in hot tubs and similar environments.
Certain yeasts and viruses can also infect hair follicles, leading to similar symptoms.
Finally, barber’s itch appears on the face after shaving and is more common among black men with naturally curly hair. As hairs grow back, they curl under the skin and cause small ingrown hair cysts to form.
What are some causes of Folliculitis?
You already know that bacteria is the leading cause of folliculitis, but certain activities can increase your risk of developing this irritating skin condition. Here are some factors to look out for.
Bacteria infection after hair removal
Most hair removal methods can cause this uncomfortable condition. In fact, if you’ve ever had razor burn after shaving, you’ve had a form of folliculitis. This often occurs when you shave too quickly or use too much pressure, causing damage to the hair follicles, which are then susceptible to bacteria. It can appear anywhere you shave or wax, including your arms, legs, and pubic area.
You can usually prevent razor bumps by using a new blade each time you shave, taking your time, and using a proper shaving cream. However, if your irritated skin persists, you might need to stop shaving until it’s resolved.
Although it’s less common, folliculitis can also appear after waxing.
One tip is to exfoliate your skin the day before shaving or waxing. Dead skin cells can clog pores and cause symptoms similar to folliculitis.
Tubs or pools that haven’t been properly cleaned
Many bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments. So, it’s no surprise that poorly maintained hot tubs are great places for these organisms to hide out.
Stay away from these places in the days after waxing or shaving so you don’t expose your open follicles to any invisible threats.
Wearing tight-fitted clothing can lead to folliculitis
No matter which hair removal techniques you prefer, you should avoid tight clothing after each session. Constant friction can further irritate your tender skin and increase your risk of folliculitis. If your skin is naturally sensitive, it’s possible for your detergent to make matters worse, especially when your clothing is tight.
Treatments to Folliculitis
Inflamed hair follicles usually go away on their own in a few days. However, you can take action to speed up the process. Here are a few tips to treat folliculitis and reduce inflammation.
Avoid sweat-inducing activities
Excessive sweating can clog pores and introduce bacteria into open hair follicles, so you should avoid hitting the gym too hard after your hair removal treatment.
If you notice the early signs of folliculitis after shaving or waxing, take a few days off of your gym routine to care for your skin and allow it to heal.
Home remedies like compresses and aloe vera can help
You’ll find plenty of home remedies to soothe your irritated skin. Aloe vera is known for its calming properties. You can purchase pure gel or get it straight from the aloe vera plant and apply it as needed to calm itchy skin.
Tea tree oil is antibacterial, so it can combat the microorganisms on your skin. Just be sure to mix it with a carrier oil, such as grapeseed, before applying it.
Apple cider vinegar is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, making it a great solution for folliculitis. To use it, add one tablespoon to half a cup of water. Apply the solution to the affected area with a cotton ball and allow it to dry. Repeat twice daily until the bumps subside.
Witch hazel is also effective and doesn’t have a strong smell like apple cider vinegar.
Lotions and skincare products recommended by your esthetician
If your folliculitis is relatively mild, try treating it with glycolic or salicylic acid, which can dry out these bumps and help quickly clear your skin. These are active ingredients in many ingrown hair serums and other post-wax care products. Be sure to buy these products from a trusted source and stick to brands you know and love.
Don’t pick at the affected area
We know it can be tempting to poke and prod at those pesky bumps, but it won’t do you any favors. In fact, you’ll only increase the risk of further irritation and prolong your bout with folliculitis.
Instead, remove dead skin before your hair removal session to prevent ingrown hairs, hydrate with a moisturizing lotion, and keep your hands off your inflamed follicles.
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