Folliculitis, a little known condition

     This is a common condition that can affect any part of the body except the palms and the soles of the feet. Those areas are not affected since they have no hair on them.

     Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles.  Many times a redness around the areas that are shaved will become more than just obvious to the eye.  The soreness and infection generally follow the pink going into redness quite quickly. The itching will or will not accompany the areas affected. When scratched, bacteria is introduced to this vunerable skin area.

     The prevention might be as simple as:

1.  Changing the razor more frequently or even each time the shaving activity is performed can prevent this condition.

2.  Adequately pre washing with an anitbacterial soap can be a plus to ward off folliculitis.

3.  A half and half solution of water and hydrogen peroxide can be used before shaving to prevent this condition.

4.  Careful use of a clean drying towel or cloth can deter bacterial infections that sometimes cause Folliculitis.

5.  An astringent used prior to shaving if the use of that product is safe in the area it is being applied, can help too. The astringent sets up the hair so it is easily shaved.

     When the Folliculitis is discovered, it can be self treated with the following:

1.  Tweezing the affected hair to remove it completely from the hair follicle.

2.  Cleaning the affected area with antibacterial soap scrubbing for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth that has not been used for anything else.

3.  Use of antibiotic cream or ointment 3 to 4 times a day with a bandage to cover to keep it clean after each application.  Application might take 4 or 5 days for healing.