What is folliculitis?

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Folliculitis is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles. It's caused by bacteria (usually staphylococcus bacteria) that find their way into the hair follicles from a nearby infection. The follicles also can become irritated from shaving or wearing certain types of makeup or irritating clothing. Some people develop folliculitis after taking a dip in a hot tub. This condition is referred to as "hot-tub folliculitis."

Folliculitis looks like small, pus-filled pimples at the base of each hair. Some mild cases will go away without treatment, but an antibiotic can help clear up the bacteria and relieve the condition more quickly. If the infection is caused by irritation from shaving, waxing, or plucking the hair, you might need to hold off on these activities for a few weeks to allow healthy hair to grow in.

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