Guide To The Types Of Folliculitis

Hot Tub Folliculitis

Hot tub folliculitis occurs when individuals spend a significant amount of time relaxing in a hot tub. This skin infection appears in the lower part of the hair follicle. However, some patients may develop hot tub folliculitis without being near a hot tub. The bacteria responsible for the infection work best in wet and warm areas. Though the bacteria can occur in any wet and warm place, infestations are particularly likely in wooden hot tubs as opposed to hot tubs made from other materials.

The main symptom of this type of folliculitis is a red and bumpy rash that itches. In rarer cases, the rash will not itch. Some of the bumps are filled with pus, and the rash may look like acne. Typically, the rash will develop a few hours or days following exposure. Following the formation of the rash, the symptoms might progress to painful and tender dark red bumps. Patients might see the rash in areas underneath their swimsuit or on their chest underneath where the water level hits.

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Sycosis Barbae

Folliculitis barbae occurs when the beard area becomes infected with Staphylococcus aureus. It may occur in both men who shave and those who do not shave. When the infection becomes deep-seated, it is called sycosis barbae. Sycosis barbae does not tend to be life-threatening. However, it can lead to permanent hair loss and deep scarring in the affected areas. Another condition that occurs is called pseudofolliculitis barbae. This appears when shaving leads to ingrown facial hair. The immune system sends up an inflammatory response to the affected hairs.

This type of folliculitis can occur wherever the hair is plucked or shaved. Individuals can have both pseudofolliculitis and sycosis barbae at the same time. Men who have African ancestry are more likely to develop this condition than other ethnic groups. Women can also be affected by both conditions. Patients are more likely to develop one or both of these conditions if they use a bladed razor than if they use an electric razor when shaving.

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