Folliculitis

Patients should alert their physicians if folliculitis worsens when taking drug therapy, or if fever, rigor, confusion or other signs suggestive of systemic infection occur.

For men with recurrent and chronic folliculitis in the beard region, careful shaving techniques may help decrease the recurrence of folliculitis. The affected area should be washed thoroughly with non-abrasive antibacterial soap and a washcloth. The region should be rinsed with warm water, and then compressed with warm water for 5 to 8 minutes. Shaving cream should be applied and massaged to create a moderate lather. A sharp blade should be used to shave with the grain of the hair. The skin should not be pulled taut or the lather allowed to dry out. After shaving, the area should be rinsed thoroughly and then compressed with cold water for 5 to 8 minutes. Aftershave should be applied to the region. If burning or itching continues after shaving, an over the counter 1% hydrocortisone cream can be applied sparingly if appropriate.