Causes of Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an infection that affects hair follicles, causing them to swell and even become infected. Certain kinds of viruses, bacteria or fungi infect hair follicles and then lead to folliculitis. Folliculitis can be very painful and uncomfortable and the infection could even lead to permanent scarring. There are several kinds of infections depending on the kind of bacteria or virus, however, the most common bacteria that causes folliculitis is Staphylococcus aureus. Hair follicles are present everywhere on the body except in places like the soles of the feet, the palms of the hand and mucous membranes. Sometimes when a hair follicle is damaged, it is prone to infection. There are many ways in which hair follicles become damaged and one of the most common is shaving. Using razors that are blunt or improper shaving methods can lead to follicle damage, and as a result foliculitis, and other skin conditions. Other skin conditions that lead to inflammations like acne and dermatitis can also lead to follicle damage. Trauma to the skin during accidents or surgical scars can also lead to the damaging and weakening of hair follicles. Excessive perspiration and tight clothing also sometimes lead to damaged follicles. Exposure to extreme hot, either through a hot tub, a swimming pool that is warmed or contact with heat could also result in follicle damage.
Home Remedies to Treat Folliculitis
There are a few home remedies you can try to treat folliculitis at home. It is essential to maintain a good level of hygiene while caring for folliculitis at home. This is to ensure that you don’t allow the infection to spread to other areas. Apply a topical antiseptic cream or lotion to curb the follicle infection. To alleviate pain and inflammation, apply a hot compress on the affected areas. Ensure that you keep the area clean and exfoliate periodically to avoid the build up of dead skin cells. Apply a soft cotton cloth soaked in vinegar to help alleviate the infection.
There are also several precautions that need to be taken while caring for folliculitis at home. Always wear loose, cotton clothing that will dry easily and not trap bacteria and moisture. Tight fitting or synthetic clothing tends to aggravate folliculitis. While shaving, try and shave in the direction of hair growth to avoid damaging hair follicles. Change your blades regularly to ensure that you don’t damage your hair follicles. Do not share personal articles like razors and towels with others as this increases chances of infection.
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