Does folliculitis require surgery?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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Folliculitis generally does not require surgery, and can be completely cured by commonly used oral and topical anti-inflammatory drugs. If individual folliculitis is particularly prominent and has some pustules, you can disinfect the area locally, then use a needle to break them open and clean out the pus and blood. Unless the folliculitis is large, especially those on the scalp, and chronic medication is ineffective and gradually worsening, surgery might be required. You can go to the dermatology department of a regular hospital for surgery to completely clean out the pus and blood. To prevent recurrence of this disease, avoid spicy and irritating foods, do not stay up late, strengthen exercise, sweat more, and bathe more frequently.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is folliculitis contagious?

Folliculitis is an inflammation of the skin surface caused by self-inflammation infection, primarily related to Staphylococcus aureus, and some are caused by Keratinophyton infections. Generally, this disease is not contagious and will not spread through contact with others. However, some cases of the disease can progressively develop into more severe forms, forming large abscesses or cysts. Therefore, once folliculitis occurs, it is essential to undergo proper treatment, which can include oral and topical anti-inflammatory medications. If the folliculitis is relatively minor, it can also be treated by disinfecting with iodine followed by lancing to clean out the pus and blood. It is important to consistently avoid spicy and irritating foods, refrain from staying up late, and avoid public baths and swimming pools.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Folliculitis should be seen in the dermatology department.

Folliculitis is often due to overactive sebaceous glands, consumption of spicy and irritating food, or frequent late nights, leading to skin inflammatory infections. These often occur on the face, chest, back, or scalp. This condition falls under the scope of dermatology, and treatment can be sought at a standard hospital's dermatology department. Commonly prescribed oral and topical anti-inflammatory medications can completely alleviate the condition. In cases where individual folliculitis is particularly severe and painful, the affected area can be disinfected and lanced with a needle to drain the pus and blood. Afterwards, it is crucial to avoid spicy and irritating foods for a long period, refrain from staying up late, avoid keeping small animals at home, and consume more bland foods. Additionally, consuming Chinese herbal medicines that clear heat and reduce fire can be beneficial.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What medicine should be applied for folliculitis?

Folliculitis is a disease caused by an inflammatory infection, generally associated with excessive secretion from the sebaceous glands, frequent consumption of spicy and irritating foods, or staying up late. It commonly affects the scalp, face, or buttocks. For treatment, topical antibiotics can be applied, and taking oral anti-inflammatory medications may also be appropriate. If individual follicles are particularly painful and swollen, they can be disinfected and lanced with a needle to drain the pus and blood. This condition has a high recurrence rate, so after recovery, it is important to avoid spicy and irritating foods, refrain from staying up late, engage in regular exercise, avoid public baths, and minimize exposure to infectious bacteria.

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Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
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Is chicken skin keratosis pilaris?

Chicken skin, scientifically known as keratosis pilaris, is a chronic keratinizing skin disease of the hair follicles, not folliculitis. Keratosis pilaris has a high prevalence rate, often beginning in childhood and becoming significantly worse during adolescence. The condition may be related to genetics, vitamin A deficiency, and metabolic disorders. It commonly occurs on the upper arms, near the shoulders, and on the extensor sides of the thighs. Chicken skin appears as a distinctive rough texture on the skin, with follicular papules ranging from the size of a pinhead to a grain, matching the color of the skin, and not merging. Generally, this condition does not require treatment as it primarily affects only the aesthetic appearance of the skin. However, topical treatments such as tretinoin cream and urea cream can be used, and in severe cases, oral vitamin A, vitamin E, or retinoid medications may be prescribed. (Use medications under medical supervision.)

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Written by Li Ya Ping
Dermatology Department
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How should folliculitis be treated?

Folliculitis is caused by a bacterial infection of the hair follicles. The first step in treating folliculitis is to maintain skin cleanliness. In the summer, it is important to bathe and change clothes frequently. Additionally, topical medications can be used, such as mupirocin ointment. For some cases of folliculitis that have not yet suppurated, ichthammol ointment can be applied to the swollen areas, and topical iodine can be used. For more severe cases of folliculitis, especially when boils form or multiple follicles are affected and congested, oral medications may be used. Commonly used in clinical settings are penicillins or cephalosporins if the patient is not allergic to them. Alternatively, macrolides like erythromycin, or fluoroquinolones and quinolones can be chosen. (Medication use should be under the guidance of a physician.)