Scalp Folliculitis Cure

Scalp folliculitis is a common bothersome problem for many. The Staphylococcus aureus bacteria is known to be the most common culprit behind it. A follicle is a tiny pouch which serves as the origin for hair.

Each hair on the body has this pouch, and as a matter of fact, the scalp tends to have the densest of follicles. Now, the bacteria that I had mentioned at the beginning of this story, infects these follicles and gives rise to unpleasant symptoms. And the infection is known as scalp folliculitis.

Folliculitis can occur on any part of the body that has hair, except for the palm, soles and mucous membranes. However, folliculitis of the scalp and the face is the most common occurrence. Also, the infection is not always a bacterial one, and may also be the result of a viral or fungal invasion.

How do People Contract Scalp Folliculitis?

Hair follicles can resist the invasion of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and fungi, until they are in a good state. Once the follicles sustain damage, germs find their way in and give rise to the infection. And there are several ways which can damage the follicles.

The common ones include frequent shaving, and wearing tight clotting. These however are less commonly related to scalp folliculitis. Injuries to the skin of the scalp, skin diseases such as dermatitis or acne are also responsible for causing such kind of damage, and may lead to scalp folliculitis.

To add to these, using a swimming pool that is not properly treated with chlorine, prolong use of antibiotics, frequent use of makeup, or working with substances like motor oil and tar, and profuse perspiration can block or irritate the scalp follicles causing an infection.

And immune suppressing conditions such as HIV/AIDS can also be counted in the list of the causes.

Detection of the Infection

Scalp folliculitis may occur in the upper part of the hair follicle (superficial), or it may occur deeper in the skin that surrounds the infected follicle. So the symptoms may vary according to these types.

The former is characterized by the formation of small red bumps around the infected follicles, blisters filled with pus, skin reddening and getting inflamed, and itchiness.

The other infection, that begins deeper in the skin is marked by a swollen mass that is relatively larger in size, pus-filled blisters, and pain. Here, there is also a possibility of scar formation after the infection clears.

How to Cure Scalp Folliculitis?

Mild infections do not require any treatment whatsoever, as they usually resolve on their own. However, for those that are too stubborn to go away or recur frequently, treatment is required. The treatment will vary according to the nature of the scalp folliculitis; whether it is superficial or deep.

Common medications may include antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection, and other medication to relieve itching.

Mild scalp folliculitis can be treated with the help of a few self care measures. And the same measures may at least help in soothing the symptoms of a severe infection, in not cure it. When you experience the symptoms of the infection, apply a warm moist cloth to the infected area of the scalp.

This would help in reducing the discomfort by draining the area. If the skin is itchy, which it would be for certain, try an oatmeal lotion. It is recommended to use an antibacterial soap for cleaning the area, and important to use clean and dry washcloth to wipe off the area. Using an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment also helps.

However, it is important to gently pat dry the infected scalp, instead of rubbing it vigorously.

Scalp folliculitis, although a common problem, is easily preventable. All you need to do is to avoid factors which trigger the infection, as far as possible. A good example would be maintaining a proper chlorine level in hot tubs and swimming pools, and so on.