Folliculitis Home Treatments

Folliculitis is a condition where hair roots throughout the body can become infected as the result of a virus and the hair in the follicles falls out. The condition first appears red and white pimples on the skin around the hair follicle. In extreme cases of folliculitis, the skin can be scared or permanent hair loss can result. The more extreme cases may require prescription medication, but milder cases can be treated with home remedies.

Home Treatments

• Wash the infected area with a strong antiseptic soap to remove the dead skin cells. Apply warm compresses of 1/4 cup vinegar and 1/4 cup water to the hair follicles to relieve the itch and keep the infection from spreading. Apply medicated powder such as Gold Bond Triple Action Medicated Powder or Ammens Medicated Powder to the affected area to keep the follicles dry and help with the itching.

Tips to Ease Folliculitis Skin Condition

• Do not shave the affected area as a nick or cut can spread the infection. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing as this will cause additional irritation to the hair follicles. Do not share towels; the condition can be transferred from one person to another through infected skin cells. Do not use lotions or cosmetics on folliculitis as these clog the pores and cause the follicles to become infected.

Seek Medical Treatment

• In extreme cases of folliculitis the hair follicles can become infected, becoming red, swollen and very painful and a fever can develop. Consult a dermatologist, who can prescribe an antibiotic to stop the spread of the infection, which if left untreated, can lead to permanent hair loss.