Folliculitis

Folliculitis Red Bumps. Itchy Skin. Irritation That Keeps Coming Back?

You’re dealing with bumps that look like acne, feel like razor burn, and refuse to go away. You treat them, they fade—and then they come right back.

It’s frustrating. It’s uncomfortable. Sometimes it even hurts.

If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with folliculitis—an inflammation of the hair follicles that’s more common (and more stubborn) than most people realize. The good news? It’s treatable, and you’re not alone.

At Biltmore Dermatology, we treat folliculitis with a plan—not a shrug and a “try this cream.” Whether it’s chronic or occasional, we’re here to help you feel good in your skin again.

What Is Folliculitis?

Folliculitis happens when hair follicles become inflamed or infected. That inflammation can look like tiny pimples, red bumps, or ingrown hairs. It’s often itchy. Sometimes it stings. And depending on where it shows up, it can be downright miserable.

You can get folliculitis anywhere there’s hair, but it most often shows up on:

• The scalp
• Neck or beard area
• Chest and back
• Underarms
• Groin
• Buttocks
• Legs

Shaving, sweating, and tight clothing can all make it worse.

What It Feels Like

• Red, itchy bumps that don’t go away
• Skin that stings after sweating or shaving
• “Ingrown hairs” that get inflamed or infected
• Pimples that crust over or leave dark spots
• Discomfort in areas where your skin rubs

Folliculitis can come and go—or it can dig in and stay for months. Either way, it’s worth treating.

What Causes It?

Folliculitis can be triggered by:

• Shaving (especially with a dull blade)
• Friction from athletic clothing or equipment
• Hot tubs or pools that aren’t properly sanitized
• Fungal or bacterial infections
• Heat, humidity, or excess sweating
• Tight hairstyles or helmets
• Pre-existing skin conditions like acne or eczema

Basically, if your skin gets irritated, rubbed, or exposed to bacteria—folliculitis can follow.

Types of Folliculitis

There are a few different kinds, and treatment depends on which type you're dealing with:

• Bacterial Folliculitis – Caused by Staph bacteria
• Hot Tub Folliculitis – Linked to Pseudomonas bacteria
• Fungal Folliculitis – Caused by yeast (often missed or misdiagnosed)
• Irritant Folliculitis – From friction, sweat, or shaving
• Pityrosporum Folliculitis – Common in teens and young adults, especially on the back or chest

Could It Be Something Else?

Folliculitis is often mistaken for other skin issues—and vice versa.

Cystic Acne

Cystic breakouts can look similar but go deeper under the skin.
Learn more about cystic acne

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

If you’re getting painful flares in folds like the groin or underarms, it could be HS.
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Skin Cysts

If the bumps refill or drain repeatedly, it might be a cyst instead of folliculitis.
Explore skin cyst care

Shaving Bumps (Pseudofolliculitis)

Technically a type of folliculitis, but caused by hair curling back into the skin.

Fungal Infections

Especially common in warm, moist areas. Often misdiagnosed as acne or rash.
Common skin infections we treat

How We Treat It

We don’t do one-size-fits-all skincare. Your treatment depends on what’s causing your folliculitis, how long it’s been there, and what’s worked—or hasn’t—in the past.

Treatment might include:

• Topical or oral antibiotics (for bacterial cases)
• Antifungal creams or pills (if it’s yeast-related)
• Antibacterial washes for prevention
• Guidance on hair removal, hygiene, or heat exposure
• Laser hair removal for stubborn, recurring cases
  Explore laser options

When Should You Come In?

• The bumps won’t go away
• They keep showing up in the same spots
• You’re not sure if it’s acne, folliculitis, or something else
• You’re just tired of dealing with it

You don’t have to live with irritated, inflamed skin. And you definitely don’t have to guess what’s going on.

Schedule a Consultation

Folliculitis may seem like “just a rash,” but it can take a real toll—physically, mentally, and emotionally. At Biltmore Dermatology, our board-certified dermatology provider offers discreet, compassionate care and real treatments for Folliculitis.

Contact us to schedule your visit in Terre Haute or Vincennes. We’ll help you figure out what’s going on and how to stop the cycle—for good.