Common Signs and Symptoms of Folliculitis

Folliculitis symptoms starts when hair follicles are damaged by friction from clothing, blockage of the follicle, or shaving. In most cases of folliculitis, the damaged follicles are then infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus. This second form of follicles is caused by a section of the hair shaft that has been pressed or grown back into the skin. Both types occur mostly in men. The second form is especially prominent in African American men. Scalp folliculitis symptoms is not a serious condition, but it does require prompt attention if the area becomes infected or if the infection spreads. Seek prompt medical care if, after home treatment, symptoms happen againover and over again, if they persist for more than two or three days, or if the infection spreads. Its symptom includes an itchy skin rash with pimples or pustules developing near a hair follicle.

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a disorder that occurs mainly in black men. If curly beard hairs are cut too short, they may curve back into the skin and cause inflammation. Folliculitis  may caused by damage to the hair follicles due to clothing especially rough fabrics such as wool, helmet straps, or other objects rubbing against the hair or beard. It can also develop from a blocked follicle or as a result of shaving.

Hair follicles in the neck, groin, or genital area are particularly susceptible to inflammation. The damaged follicle is most frequently infected with staphylococcal bacteria when infection is present. Folliculitis can also occur if a curly facial hair is shaved too closely and irritates the skin.