How Do You Treat Folliculitis on The Face?

Folliculitis on the face is usually caused by a bacterial infection of the hair follicle. Topical antibiotics or hydrocortisone cream may cure facial folliculitis.

Folliculitis on the face is a disorder that occurs when hair follicles become infected with bacteria and result in a tender red spot. Less commonly, the infection may be caused by a virus or fungus in the follicle. Hair follicles are sacs under the skin where hairs originate. 

What Are Symptoms of Folliculitis on The Face?

Symptoms of folliculitis on the face include:

• Small red bumps that appear like pimples, some with white heads on them
• May be painful or tender
• Bumps may be itchy
• Bumps may appear in groups
• Blisters that may open, ooze, and crust over
• Large areas of red, swollen skin that may leak pus

Folliculitis on the face is considered to be an inflammatory reaction to blockages of hair follicles, and is believed to be caused by: 

• Bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Cutibacterium acnes)
• Yeasts (Malassezia species)
• Mites (Demodex folliculorum)
• Skin products
• Hair removal processes such as shaving, waxing, and plucking 
• Ingrown hairs
• Some drugs, such as corticosteroids 
• Tight clothing
• Sticky bandages

Folliculitis on the face is usually diagnosed with a patient history and physical examination. 

Tests that may be indicated to help confirm a diagnosis of folliculitis on the face or to rule out other conditions may include: 

• Gram stain and culture of the contents of a pustule 
• Skin biopsy 

Treatment for folliculitis on the face includes:

• Topical antibiotics 
  • Clindamycin solution
  • Erythromycin solution
• Topical steroid creams or lotions
• Oral antihistamines
• Oral antibiotics, particularly long-term tetracycline
• Oral isotretinoin 
  • Long-term low dose treatment may be required

Folliculitis on the face may be prevented in some cases. 

• Wash your hands frequently
• Use clean razor blades and replace blades frequently, or use an electric razor or hair removal products (depilatories) instead of shaving or plucking
• Avoid use of oily skin products
• Be careful if entering a hot tub – only use hot tubs you know are well-maintained