Folliculitis is a common skin problem that is usually caused by a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. Mostly, it is nothing to worry about and gets better on its own. However, folliculitis can cause severe skin irritation, blisters, and spots resembling pimples.
Folliculitis commonly results from incorrect shaving techniques, bad hygiene, and wearing tight clothes. Avoiding these habits can aid in folliculitis prevention.
Medical treatment might be required if symptoms aggravate or remain persistent. And for that, you can visit the best Skin Specialist in Lahore for your optimal treatment.
DIAGNOSIS
By examining your skin and inquiring about your medical history, your doctor can probably tell if you have folliculitis.
If initial therapies fail to cure your condition, your doctor may order some investigations. These investigations may involve scraping the skin to examine it under a microscope for fungi, collecting a swab for a culture to identify the infection’s source, or performing a skin biopsy to exclude other disorders.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
The treatment for folliculitis differs depending on the nature and severity of the disease.
Often, mild instances can be treated at home. But severe or persistent cases may require medication or other treatment options. For mild cases, the following remedies mostly work wonders.
Soap Wash
Twice daily, wash the area with soap and warm water. Use a fresh towel to dry off, and do not allow anyone else to use it as it can spread the infection.
Warm Compresses
A warm, moist compress may significantly relieve inflammation, swelling, and pain. Always use a fresh or clean washcloth. To ensure that the soft cotton cloth is clean, boil it or rinse it in warm water with soap.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel might encourage rapid skin healing. Additionally, it has a cooling effect, which could help reduce swelling, redness, and itchiness. According to research, aloe vera gel may also help inhibit the growth of some types of bacteria.
It is essential to get aloe vera gel that is pure and free of chemicals and fragrances. For application, you must cleanse the affected area with soap and water.
Wet Wraps
The use of wet wrap therapy can help reduce dryness and irritation of the skin. Dermatologists advise patients with eczema and other rash-like conditions to use this treatment at home.
Essential Oils
According to scientific research, several essential oils are antibacterial and antifungal. But, you should not apply essential oils directly to your skin. Add a few drops of the essential oil to a lotion or carrier oil to dilute it and then apply.
Bacterial Infections
Your doctor might recommend an antibiotic ointment or gel for a minor bacterial infection. Although oral antibiotics are not typically prescribed for folliculitis, you may need them if the condition worsens or recurs.
Fungal Infections
Antifungal medications treat yeast infections rather than bacterial ones. This particular form of folliculitis cannot be treated with antibiotics.
Minor Surgery
Your doctor might make a small incision to drain the pus from a huge boil or carbuncle. It can lessen discomfort, accelerate healing, and prevent scarring.
Hair Removal With Laser Therapy
When alternative therapies have not helped your folliculitis symptoms, your healthcare professional may advise laser hair removal. Many times, this treatment necessitates multiple trips to the doctor’s office.
Set up an appointment with a Dermatologist in Karachi if the preceding self-care methods do not resolve the disease within three days, if symptoms persist, or if the condition worsens.
