Diseases, endocrinologists. MRI
Site search

Causes and treatment methods for inflammation of hair follicles. What is inflammation of the hair follicle

Inflammation of the hair follicle is common in children and adults. Therefore, they want to know why this happens, when they can treat it themselves, and when they need to see a doctor.

Folliculitis – infectious inflammation follicle, appears in places where hair grows on the legs, back and other parts of the body. It always gives rise to inflammatory purulent processes, and can affect the follicle both superficially and deeply, forming a core.

Inflammation of the hair follicles can occur for various reasons, but most often it occurs due to poor personal hygiene. The infection can penetrate the follicle with the smallest, minor injuries to the skin, namely:

Incorrectly applied compress, diaper rash in the folds of the skin, taking medications that reduce the body's protective functions can inflame the follicles.

Causes of inflammation

  • skin contamination;
  • microtraumas with infection;
  • tight synthetic clothing and scuffs;
  • increased sweating;
  • improper application of the compress;
  • climatic conditions and hypothermia.

All of the above reasons can cause a severe form of the disease, which deeply affects the skin. Sometimes internal factors are added to them, such as:

  • anemia;
  • diabetes;
  • unbalanced diet;
  • immunodeficiency and HIV infections;
  • long-term use of immunosuppressants.

Any diseases, including chronic ones, always suppress the immune system, causing folliculitis. It is important to maintain good hygiene, eat right and take care of your health.

Symptoms of folliculitis

After infection occurs, inflammation occurs, causing redness and infiltration in the follicle area, pain and itching appear. The size of the boil can reach from 2 to 10 mm and directly depends on the depth of the lesion. You cannot squeeze out such a boil yourself due to the rapid spread of infection.

If the disease is superficial, a bag of pus collects around the hair, which dries quickly without causing pain. If the boil is large with a deep core, many painful nodules form on it with a center in the follicle and an abscess in the upper part around the hair. It can reach a size of up to 100 mm; these ripen slowly.

After a week or two, the pus breaks out, forming a yellowish crust on the skin. A severe form of folliculitis leaves a scar or pigmentation, while a mild form does not.

Multiple inflammation of the hair follicles more often affects men, and is provoked by profession, appearing in certain areas of skin contamination. It is also caused by irritation, various abrasions, or after shaving.

Types of folliculitis

There are several distinctions, namely:

  • staphylococcal folliculitis;
  • pseudomonas;
  • syphilitic;
  • gonorrheal;
  • candida;
  • dermatophytosis;
  • herpetic;
  • Bockhart's impetigo.

Staphylococcal folliculitis is more often affected hair follicles bristly hair - chin, cheekbones, above the lips. “Sycosis” (deep skin lesions in men) appears when the infection penetrates during shaving. Often the disease progresses to chronic form, worsen, becomes resistant to medications. Sycosis is usually multiple. In addition to the face, it can occur on other parts of the body.

Pseudomonas folliculitis is an acute skin infection, which develops 5 hours after exposure to contaminated water. It can affect patients who are currently undergoing antibacterial treatment about acne. After bathing, the rash on the face and torso worsens. Several urticarial red lesions appear, they itch, and sometimes give a fever. This form of the disease most often affects teenagers because children like to stay in water for long periods of time.

Syphilitic is caused by a relapse of the disease, which is accompanied by non-scarring baldness in the chin, mouth, and scalp.

Gonorrheal - appears from neglected form gonorrhea. It is localized on foreskin in men, as well as on the skin of the perineum in women.

Candidiasis appears after sealed bandages, usually in bedridden patients with fever.

Dermatophytosis is a lesion of the upper layer of skin, and over time, inflammation penetrates into the hair shaft. The background for its appearance is often ringworm, as well as scab.

Herpetic attacks the follicles of bristly hair in men. Characterized by the formation of bubbles.

Bockhart's impetigo affects softened skin, causing inflammation hair follicle in the groin with increased sweating, or after warm compresses.

Diagnostics

The purpose of diagnosis is to determine the pathogen that caused the inflammation, as well as to identify concomitant diseases that can provoke folliculitis. It is imperative to exclude them, especially those giving similar symptoms. How more accurate diagnosis, the better the quality of treatment.

The doctor examines the source of inflammation and does a dermatoscopy, which will make it possible to find out the depth of the lesion. To carry out microscopy, the contents of the pustules are taken, bacterial culture is carried out, the presence of fungi is determined and treponema pallidum. Diagnosis of polymerase is required chain reaction(PCR), this will completely exclude gonorrhea and syphilis.

Treatment of folliculitis

Complex therapy will reduce inflammation, eliminate the spread of infection, accelerate maturation and fast healing. Treatment includes:

  • local therapy;
  • antiseptics;
  • antibiotics;
  • antifungal drugs;
  • Acyclovir;
  • immunomodulators.

To treat the initial stage of the disease, local therapy with the simplest medications is used. If the boils are single, it is enough to wipe the affected areas with camphor or salicylic alcohol, or you can use brilliant green.

When the rashes are multiple and the accumulation of pus is large, the doctor performs an autopsy of the papules. After this procedure, ichthyol ointment is applied twice a day to relieve the inflammatory process.

To treat severe forms, the doctor will select antibiotics individually for each patient based on the pathogen identified through bacterial culture. Recovery protective functions the body is prescribed immunomodulators.

Acyclovir ointment helps with herpetic folliculitis. If the disease is caused by fungi, antifungal drugs (Fluconazole, Terbinafil) and ointments are used. For all severe cases of the disease, the doctor prescribes antibiotics, which are used along with local treatment. Any type of folliculitis must be fought until it disappears completely.

Inflammation of the hair follicle causes redness of the skin and the formation of pustules. Any defeats skin cause moral suffering. It is not always possible to hide them under clothing or under a layer of camouflage cosmetics. The compaction of tissue around the source of inflammation can be significant in size. In addition to psychological discomfort, such large ulcers cause physical torment. They can cause severe pain not only when touched, but even when slight movement. The hair follicle can become inflamed anywhere on the skin. It is especially unpleasant when ulcers appear on the face.

Why do hair follicles become inflamed?

The hair follicle (or follicle) is located deep within the skin. A disease in which it becomes inflamed is called folliculitis. Skin damage is caused pathogenic microorganisms, penetrating deep into the hair funnel. The pilar funnel is a depression in the skin at the base of the hair shaft (the visible part of the hair). Folliculitis is classified as a purulent disease of the dermis. It is diagnosed in almost every second person.

A decrease in the body's defenses contributes to the development of the disease. In such cases, the disease quickly progresses, affecting other areas of the skin and causing complications. People at risk include people with diabetes, HIV infection, and previous serious illnesses and taking drugs that suppress the immune system.

Hair follicles become inflamed after long-term use outdoor hormonal drugs that oppress local immunity skin.

A decrease in the body's resistance to infection occurs as a result of professional activity. People who work in constant contact with kerosene, industrial oils and lubricants develop occupational folliculitis over time.

Provoking factors include wearing tight clothing. Constant friction causes damage to the skin. Wounds, cuts and abrasions help the infection penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and cause disease. Inflammation of the hair follicle in the groin and on the face in the area of ​​stubble growth can be a result of shaving. Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules increases the risk of inflammation.

Liver disease, as well as poor nutrition, increase the likelihood of developing folliculitis.

Varieties of the disease

Folliculitis is divided into types depending on the nature of its origin:

  1. Staphylococcal folliculitis is localized in areas where stubble grows. Most often, ulcers cover the area of ​​the mouth and chin.
  2. Pseudomonas form of inflammation of the follicles is diagnosed mainly in patients taking antibiotics for treatment acne. Due to the characteristic feature of the manifestation of the disease after taking a bath, it is called “hot bath” folliculitis. Purulent blisters dot the face and upper body.
  3. Syphilitic folliculitis develops with secondary syphilis. Ulcers are localized on the scalp, in the area where the mustache and beard grow. In areas of inflammation, hair falls out. After recovery, scars and spots do not remain.
  4. Gonorrheal folliculitis develops as a result of neglect or prolonged ineffective treatment gonorrhea.
  5. The candidiasis form of the disease occurs under bandages that prevent air access.
  6. Dermatophytic inflammation of the hair follicles appears gradually. The infection descends from the surface of the skin to the hair shaft, then to its root. This variety accompanies I deprive the ringworm. After ulcers, scars remain.
  7. Herpetic folliculitis is observed in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle and on the chin.
  8. Demodectic ulcers are caused by demodex mites. Their characteristic feature is a pityriasis-like peeling of the dermis near the purulent blisters.
  9. Impetigo is also a form of folliculitis. Appears when the skin softens due to excessive sweating or under bandages.

Inflammation of the hair follicles can be superficial and deep. The superficial form usually leaves no traces, while the deep form is accompanied by hair loss.

Manifestations of folliculitis


After infection penetrates, redness occurs around the hair shafts. At this stage of the disease painful sensations the person does not experience. The reddened area may be slightly itchy.

Later, in the middle of the redness, small nodules will appear on the surface of the skin. Progressive inflammatory process will turn them into cone-shaped tubercles permeated with vellus hairs with a top filled with pus. Touching them hurts. If large abscesses develop, the body temperature at the site of inflammation rises.

The causative agents of the disease can cause the appearance of individual ulcers, but most often multiple lesions appear on the skin. The rash occurs predominantly on hairy areas of the skin - on the head, face, armpits, in the groin and on lower limbs. Inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs occurs more often in women.

With the simultaneous appearance of many large purulent blisters closest to the affected area of ​​the skin The lymph nodes increase in size and become painful. The patient's body temperature rises.

Over time, the ulcers that appear open up, and small ulcers appear in their place. As they heal, they become covered with a bloody purulent crust. If the hair follicle is deeply damaged, after the crust falls off, a darkened spot or scar remains at the site of inflammation. The period of the disease from the appearance of redness to the complete disappearance of inflammation is one week.

If the disease is not treated, boils develop, as well as other purulent and purulent-necrotic pathologies.

Inflammation of the hair follicle is an infectious disease that occurs as a result of the penetration of staphylococcus into the hair follicles through microtrauma of the epidermis. Scientifically, the disease is called “folliculitis”. This pathology can occur in absolutely every person. It is very important to know why and how the development of the inflammatory process begins, as well as the treatment of this pathology.

The main causes of inflammation of the hair follicles

The main reason for the development of the inflammatory process in the hair follicle is the penetration of bacteria. Provoking factors include a cut, scratch, or injury, which results in the formation of microcracks in the skin. In most cases, skin damage occurs during shaving or hair removal.

Editor's choice: important for each of us appearance and hair condition. Today, many people suffer from hair loss. Fortunately, this problem is completely solvable. Professional treatment for baldness at https://fue-hlc.ru will help completely restore lost hair follicles. Modern hair transplant methods lead to successful results.

The next reason lies in wearing tight clothes, shoes, and underwear. Most often, this pathology is encountered by women who develop inflammation of the hair follicles in the groin.

There is a high probability of infection in people who suffer from various types of dermatoses (allergic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, eczema, scabies). This is due to the fact that a person constantly scratches the itchy area, injuring the skin. People with excessive sweating are also more likely to develop folliculitis.

Diseases such as diabetes and HIV infections can lead to a decrease in the protective functions of the skin. People who have used glucocorticosteroids subcutaneously for a long time are also at risk. Weakening of the barrier functions of the epidermis can be caused by long-term use of chemicals.

Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules when visiting public places (baths, swimming pools, saunas) also leads to the development of inflammation in the hair follicle. It is worth noting that the microbe can penetrate both damaged skin and healthy skin.

Symptoms


Folliculitis develops on any part of the body where hair follicles are located. The inflammatory process can develop superficially and on the deeper layers of the epidermis. Superficial inflammation is characterized by slight redness and swelling in the area of ​​the hair. Also in this area there is a small abscess, the size of which does not exceed 5 millimeters.

If the inflammation moves into the deeper layers of the epidermis, extensive skin lesions form on the surface. The abscess in this case can reach sizes from 1 to 10 centimeters. Depending on the degree of spread, a distinction is made between single and multiple folliculitis.

Signs of folliculitis moving into a more acute stage:

  • a pink rash forms;
  • pain, itching in the area of ​​the abscess;
  • the site of inflammation gradually increases in size;
  • in some cases, there is an increase in body temperature.

Treatment of inflammation of hair follicles

For help, you should contact a dermatologist who will give a qualified prescription. The main therapy consists of surgical excision of the source of inflammation using anesthesia (at the patient’s request). In most cases, no anesthesia is required.

Excision is carried out using surgical scalpel or curettes. The inflamed area is carefully treated with an antiseptic and carefully opened. Then the doctor cleans the area of ​​accumulated purulent masses and disinfects it.

After treatment of the patient's hair follicle, it is necessary to treat the wound several times a day disinfectant solution. Most often it is chlorhexidine.

In addition to the main treatment, the doctor may decide to take antibacterial drugs, with the help of which the harmful effects to the causative microorganism. These drugs include: Metronidazole, Cefotaxime.

You can tell that you have folliculitis by the way pustules (small purulent formations) begin to appear in areas where hair grows. After some time, the pustule opens and ulcers appear in its place (they can be both quite large and small). When the ulcers begin to heal, a scar forms in their place.

To determine whether a patient has folliculitis or not, it will be necessary to undergo a procedure called dermatoscopy. Also, a dermatologist can give a referral for microscopic examination of smears from inflamed hair follicles and a study of the microbiology of one or more pustules.

Treatment for folliculitis is long-term. Therapy for the inflammatory process includes the use of antiseptic solutions for treating hair follicles treatment antibiotics (more details in the article).

Purulent skin disease - folliculitis

Folliculitis in dermatology is classified as one of the severe purulent skin diseases called pyoderma. Among the population, this disease occurs quite often - according to statistics, in 40 people out of 100. The disease is most common in countries with hot climates, where conditions contribute to the development of pathogens on the skin, their reproduction, and infection. In particular, if a person lives in unsanitary conditions and does not take care of hygiene, then inflammatory processes on the skin are a natural phenomenon.

Video: Squeezing out blackheads under a microscope

Why does folliculitis occur?

Folliculitis occurs on human skin under the influence of bacteria, viruses and infectious processes. The most harmless bacterium that causes folliculitis is staphylococcus. But it is possible that the cause of the formation of the inflammatory process can be bacteria of gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and ureaplasma.

Skin damage by bacteria of the genus Candida is also quite common (it is because of these bacteria that women develop thrush). Other causes of the inflammatory process may include:

  • The tick that causes the disease demodicosis is
  • Herpes and herpes zoster
  • Infectious processes that penetrate the skin through minor injuries in the form of wounds on the skin, scratches, abrasions, etc. -
  • Inflammations most often occur on skin already affected by dermatoses in the form of eczema, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis. A characteristic feature will be that a person constantly scratches his skin.
  • In persons with oily skin characterized by increased sweating.

Factors that provoke the inflammatory process

Factors that provoke an inflammatory process on human skin may be:

Video: 10 SCARY FACTS ABOUT POOLS. THIS IS INTERESTING

  • Decreased immunity as a result of diseases, chronic processes occurring in the body;
  • Diabetes;
  • HIV infection, AIDS;
  • Autoimmune diseases;
  • Treatment of a number of diseases with glucocorticosteroids, which reduce human immunity;
  • Unfavorable professional conditions for the patient - frequent skin contact with chemical materials, toxins, gases, lubricants, oils, gasoline, etc. It is not surprising that the phenomenon of occupational folliculitis often occurs among workers in the heavy chemical industry, tractor drivers, mechanics, and gas station employees.

Symptoms of the inflammatory process

Symptoms of folliculitis are quite pronounced already, starting from the 1st day of illness. If you look closely at the inflamed hair, the skin next to it will be reddish; around the hair there is a pustule with purulent contents. When the pustule opens, pus flows out of it and a ulcerative lesion. After some time, the ulcer becomes covered with a dense dark crust.

If a patient's hair follicle is affected along its entire length, then a scar will appear in this place or a pigment spot will appear. If the damage to the follicle is shallow, then the likelihood of a scar occurring is quite low.

The duration of the inflammatory process of the hair follicle takes approximately 1 week - from the moment of inflammation, redness of the skin, formation of an abscess, its opening and covering with an ulcer.

Folliculitis in women

Why does folliculitis most often occur in women? The reason for this is quite simple - it is the fair sex who depilate the perineum, armpits, legs, thighs, and arms. As a result of inaccurate shaving, the use of low-quality razors, as well as the lack of disinfection after hair removal, an inflammatory process develops. In this case, with further hair growth, ingrowth of the hair follicle, pain, itching and burning in this area are observed.

Video: Boil popped up on the face nezdorov.com

The consequences of the absence of treatment for the inflammatory process of the hair follicle are the transition of the disease from folliculitis to carbuncle, abscess, phlegmon.

Treatment of folliculitis

If inflammation of the hair follicle occurs due to bacterial damage, then treatment occurs with antibiotics. In case of herpes damage to the hairs, it is treated with Acyclovir.

Video: chiri chiri pimple from acne from acne pimples pimples

At the first stage of the disease, treatment with brilliant green, iodine, fucarcin or alcohol (salicylic, boric) is allowed. Taken orally - Dicloxacillin, Erythromycin, Fluconazole, Terbinafine

Everything interesting

Video: Pyoderma pathogensVideo: Pyoderma Pyoderma (or pyoderma) is a broad group inflammatory diseases skin infectious nature. Most often, the disease is triggered by the introduction of microbes from outside that cause suppuration...

Video: Demodicosis: treatment of demodicosis Skin demodicosis is a disease that is characterized by damage to the epithelium by mites. Visually, demodicosis manifests itself in the form of severe acne, which spreads over the entire face, body, skin…

Phlegmon (from the Greek inflammation, heat) is a rather acute purulent inflammatory process that affects fatty tissue. There is no significant difference between phlegmon and an abscess. About the disease Phlegmon manifests itself with damage to a small area of ​​skin,…

A furuncle in the nose is a purulent formation, which is characterized by an acute inflammatory process of the hair follicle and, accordingly, sebaceous glands. Furuncles most often become inflamed on the wings of the nose, on the tip, as well as from the inside - in the nasal passages...

The skin of children, and especially teenagers, is prone to the formation of ulcers, pimples, and boils. It’s worth noting right away that this disease is not dangerous and life-threatening and the health of the child. Boils are an unpleasant...

Video: Furuncle on the face - what is its DANGEROUS? Watch in this video We call it “you have a boil on your face,” but a dermatologist will say that you have a skin disease on your face - a boil. It doesn’t matter what exactly this one is called...

Periostitis of the jaw is a pathology characterized by the penetration of infection into the jaw and, as a result, following this, the development of the inflammatory process. With periostitis of the jaw, a person develops a painful purulent abscess which leads...

What is popularly called a pustule or an abscess in medical terms is defined as a chronic recurrent pathology, which most often occurs in women over the age of 40, and is classified as subcorneal pustulosis...

If an infection has entered the human body, this can result in a purulent-inflammatory lesion (disease) called erysipelas. It can be localized both on the face and on the arms, legs and other parts of the body. IN…

Anthrax is serious in its effects on the human body and is quite acute. infectious processes. The ulcer proceeds with poisonous and damaging skin and internal organs exposure. The origin of the name of the disease is associated with ...

The initial stage is redness of the skin, moderate pain, and the formation of pustules. As it progresses, an infiltrate forms around the lesion.

The skin around the inflamed follicle becomes yellowish, which is explained by the presence of pus. After removing the crust of the pustule, pus is released and red skin is visible.

The number of inflammations can range from 1 to many, for example, when shaving under the armpit, most often a single inflammation is formed. Sometimes itching occurs. With extensive damage, the lymph nodes become enlarged.

Types of folliculitis and causes of its occurrence

The disease is also classified as follows:

  • Staphylococcal. Mainly found in men in the area of ​​the chin and nasolabial triangle;
  • Candidiasis occurs under occlusive dressings, especially if corticosteroids are used, in bedridden and long-term feverish patients. Formed both on the legs and on other parts of the body;
  • Herpetic - similar to staphylococcal;
  • Acne syphilide. The rash is caused by syphilis. Eliminated by treating the underlying disease;
  • Pseudomonas. Occurs after taking a hot bath where the water is not sufficiently chlorinated;
  • Gram negative occurs after long-term treatment acne with antibacterial drugs. Abscesses are possible;
  • Caused by dermatophytes. It is observed mainly on the head;
  • Depilatory. Characteristic of men in hot countries. It is characterized by the fact that inflammation of the hair follicles is observed only on the legs;
  • Gonorrheal. Very rare. Occurs with gonorrhea advanced stage. Inflammation of the hair follicle is localized in the groin, in the perineal area;
  • Professional occurs in people of a certain profession and is associated with contact with the skin of irritants in the form of chemicals. Typically visible on the backs of the hands and forearms;
  • Tick-borne disease occurs as a result of the bite of the insect of the same name;
  • Impetigo Bockhart. The cause is maceration of the skin, excessive sweating, so inflammation of the hair follicle is often noticeable under the armpit.

Treatment depends on the cause of inflammation of the hair follicle.

In addition, additional provoking factors play a role, which also need to be eliminated:

  • Skin microtraumas;
  • Skin contamination;
  • Untimely or incorrect application of an occlusive dressing;
  • Climatic conditions (high humidity and temperature);
  • Wearing synthetic, tight-fitting clothing;
  • Hypothermia;
  • Anemia;
  • Diabetes;
  • Liver pathologies;
  • Unbalanced diet;
  • Treatment with immunosuppressants;
  • Local use of glucocorticosteroids;
  • Periodontal disease, gingivitis, caries;
  • Chronic tonsillitis and pharyngitis;
  • Obesity.

Complications of folliculitis

Typically, this infectious disease is mild and does not pose a serious threat to life. But complications may develop. This happens in the absence of treatment, non-compliance with hygiene rules, and a weak immune response of the body.

Common complications include boils, which lead to hidradentitis and lymphadenitis, carbuncle, abscess, follicular scars and dermatophytosis. Isolated cases are accompanied by nephritis, meningitis and pneumonia.

How to properly treat inflammation of the hair follicle?

At the initial stage of the disease, it is sufficient to treat the pustules with suitable means. Camphor (2%) and salicylic alcohol(1-2%), brilliant green solution (2%) or methylene blue, fukortsin. Nowadays gels, creams and lotions of the Klerasil series are very popular.

If the disease has affected the deeper layers of the skin and is accompanied by significant purulent accumulations, it is necessary to open the blisters, remove their contents, and then treat with one of the listed remedies. It is recommended to apply ichthyol compresses twice a day.

If the disease has become chronic and recurs, serious drug therapy is necessary. In this case, antibiotics and sulfonamide drugs are prescribed. Immunostimulating therapy is also indicated.

When inflammation of the hair follicles is observed on the arms, legs, and torso, you should not squeeze the affected parts of the body and squeeze out the blisters, as this increases the risk of developing a boil and even phlegmon.

Irradiation with ultraviolet rays has proven itself well. The general course is 6-10 procedures. Sessions are scheduled every day or every other day. If folliculitis occurs against the background of diabetes mellitus, a corrective diet is prescribed to normalize carbohydrate metabolism and reduce the risk of disease relapse.

Treatment of staphylococcal folliculitis involves the use of Muporcin ointment or similar, internal administration of cephalexin, dicloxacillin, erythromycin or methicillin. In severe cases of pseudomonas lesions, ciprofloxacin is prescribed. If the causative agent is gram-negative bacteria, topical therapy with benzoyl peroxide is necessary.

At fungal infection appropriate means are needed to internal use– terbinafine, fluconazole, intracanozole. Herpetic folliculitis should be treated with acyclovir.

Traditional medicine recipes play an important role. Widely used various decoctions, infusions, compresses based on viburnum, rosehip, chamomile, dandelion, pricklyleaf, bedstraw, woodruff, tartar and burdock.

In the vast majority of cases, inflammation of the hair follicle has a favorable prognosis. In severe cases and damage to the deep layers of the skin, pigmentation may remain after removal of the crust. Complications from folliculitis are rare and, moreover, can be successfully treated with modern methods.

Inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs

Inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs, or folliculitis as it is also called, is the process of occurrence of a purulent disease. The main reasons for the appearance of this disease Staphylococcus is the causative agent of folliculitis. Inflammation occurs gradually, from the beginning nodules form on the legs, which are slightly swollen and red, then gradually pus appears in them over several days. Most often, folliculitis occurs in men because, as is known, their hair on the legs is larger and thicker than that of women.

Inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs occurs for several reasons. The main reason is non-compliance with personal hygiene rules. Very often, folliculitis occurs in people who use other people's bath accessories and visit swimming pools and saunas. The disease can also occur as a result of taking medications that are intended to destroy and treat various types of acne. Often, inflammation of the hair follicles on the legs occurs due to the appearance of cracks, wounds, burns and anything else that damages the structure of the skin.

To be cured of folliculitis, you should consult a dermatologist; only a doctor can attribute and prescribe the correct, and most importantly effective treatment. At mild form The disease can be helped by antibacterial soap or cream. They should be used to thoroughly wash the affected areas of the skin. If the inflammations are too large, their treatment will take a long time. Most likely, your doctor will prescribe you a course of antibiotics. In severe cases of the disease, the patient is admitted to hospital treatment, where he will undergo a course complex therapy. You should also remember that you cannot pierce or squeeze out the resulting pus; you can not only harm your health, but also cause an infection that will quickly spread throughout the body, in which case the treatment will be long and painful. Also, phlegmons and boils can form at the site of extruded folliculitis.

In order to prevent the formation of inflammation of the hair follicles, you must adhere to several rules. You should always use clean personal hygiene items and do not wear synthetic or tight underwear and clothing. Also, after visiting the sauna or swimming pool, it is recommended to take a warm shower and use antibacterial soap. In hot weather, you should take a cool bath as often as possible, this way you will protect yourself and your body from bacteria.

Many of us have a problem where acne appears on the palm of our hands. Many people do not think about the reasons for their occurrence. Singing.

Problems with fingernails and toenails can be caused by various reasons, as well as in different ways, it is worth doing when certain problems are detected.

Among allergic diseases, Stevens-Johnson syndrome is one of the most dangerous and severe pathologies. Even though it was timely.

HPV or human papillomavirus, the treatment of which is quite successful today, is a viral infectious disease. Honey.

16+ The site may contain information prohibited for viewing by persons under 16 years of age. The information on the pages of the site is provided for educational purposes only.

Don't self-medicate! Be sure to consult a doctor!

A pimple is not a pimple, a mole is not a mole! How to understand the types of acne?

Pimples, or acne vulgaris (acne) develop against the background of seborrhea, that is excess secretion sebum with altered properties. They occur in areas of the skin that are richest in sebaceous glands. On average, there are 900 glands per 1 cm2 of skin on the face, upper back and chest, while in other areas their number does not exceed 100.

The reasons that cause the formation of acne include not only excessive secretion of the sebaceous glands, but also hormonal imbalance, infection of the skin by bacteria, and pathology of the hair follicle (for example, ingrown hairs). This condition is most often observed in adolescents, but adults also often face this problem. Acne is one of the most common skin diseases.

The peak incidence occurs between the ages of 13 and 18 years, and acne appears earlier in girls, but disappears faster. In young people, acne can take severe forms, causing significant cosmetic defects and worsening the quality of life, primarily due to psychological problems. In men, the pathology acquires chronic course and over the years it turns into late acne.

The first signs are increased sebum secretion (seborrhea) and microcomedones. You should consult a doctor already during this period to prevent the development of severe forms diseases.

Main types of acne

Depending on the external manifestations, the following types of acne are distinguished:

  • comedones;
  • papular;
  • pustular;
  • inductive;
  • abscessing, or suppurating indurative;
  • phlegmonous;
  • drain;
  • conglobate.

The choice of treatment methods for inflammatory skin processes depends on their severity. In mild cases, home remedies are sufficient. At large quantities rashes, their deep and merging forms require the help of a dermatologist.

The formation of different types of acne occurs in stages. Initially, this is a blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands due to increased secretion of sebum, caused by the hypersensitivity of cells to sex hormones. This creates a breeding ground for microorganisms, in particular Propionibacterium acnes. As they multiply, they break down fat to form fatty acids that damage the skin surface. As a result of chemical irritation, an inflammatory process is formed.

Comedones

The most common type of acne, localized mainly on the face. They form in the hair follicle, which becomes clogged with dead skin cells and excess sebum. Comedones turn into small elevations (papules) with white or black dots in the center.

This type of acne can be caused by certain food products– rich in animal fat, fried, spicy, salty. They are called comedogenic.

"Black dots"

The black plugs on the surface of the papules that open onto the skin are filled with excess oil and skin cells. Their color is not due to the accumulation of dirt, but to improper reflection of light rays from clogged hair follicles, as well as changes in the color of sebum when exposed to air.

Sometimes the appearance of pathology is associated with improper use cosmetics based on oils and moisturizing components. Pollution and high humidity matter environment. In addition, blackheads may appear due to overuse soaps and other cleaning products. Dry skin leads to increased sebum production and clogged pores.

Open comedones often form on the forehead, chin, and nose. Over-the-counter acne medications are usually sufficient to treat them.

"White heads"

If the excretory duct sebaceous gland and the hair follicle becomes completely clogged, pimples with white purulent heads appear - closed comedones. Their contents do not reach the surface of the skin, accumulating under its top layer and causing the formation of a bubble. Since sebum does not come into contact with air, it does not darken. Such acne can also be combated with the help of cosmetics.

Non-inflamed comedones are not accompanied by redness and swelling of the skin. They respond quite well to application salicylic acid. This substance exfoliates dead cells, opening the exit for excess sebum. Salicylic acid is included in special lotions, toners and moisturizers.

Pimples with white heads are less treatable. To eliminate them, in addition to salicylic acid, retinoids are used, in particular Differin.

Papular

When inflamed, comedones turn into papular acne. The process is associated with the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria in the sebaceous glands, which cause inflammation and the formation of pus. On skin surface small, soft pink or red bumps form. The skin around them is often slightly hyperemic. These pimples may be sensitive to touch and may be slightly itchy. Squeezing out the contents intensifies the inflammatory process and subsequently leads to the formation of scars.

A large number of papules is a sign of moderate to severe acne and requires treatment by a dermatologist. Inflammatory acne is less treatable than comedones. To eliminate them, agents based on benzoyl peroxide, topical and oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin preparations are used.

Pustular

These are pustules, often developing from comedones with white heads. A red, inflamed rim appears around the lesion. Self pathological formation filled with white or yellow pus. It may have irregular shape, pustular acne often merges with each other and protrudes above the surface of the skin. Typically, the appearance of pustular elements is not associated with severe bacterial infection.

Avoid squeezing pimples, which can lead to dark spots(hyperpigmentation) or scarring of the skin.

Indurative or nodal

A type of subcutaneous pimples that look like large, painful bumps or nodules. They appear when the sebaceous gland duct is completely blocked, irritation and inflammation of the surrounding skin tissue.

These are dense formations to the touch. Acne penetrates deep into the skin structures and is often painful. When such formations appear, the help of a doctor is necessary. Usually enough drug treatment Isotretinoin preparations for internal use for six months.

Abscess

When indurative acne suppurates due to the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, cystic formations– abscess acne. They are filled with purulent contents and resemble boils. The formations are painful, usually soft to the touch, and after their opening deep atrophic scars form.

The course of the disease is relapsing. The help of a dermatologist is necessary, and often consultation with other specialists is required, for example, an endocrinologist or immunologist. Isotretinoin is used for treatment. The abscess can be removed surgically.

Nodular and abscessed acne often appears when hereditary predisposition. They can be observed simultaneously with comedones, occur with the progression of papular or pustular forms, and also combine into nodular abscess formations.

Phlegmonous

They appear when inflammation penetrates into the deep layers of the skin, resulting in the formation of tiny cavities filled with purulent contents. On the surface of the skin this is manifested by the appearance of widespread lumpiness. Gradually, the phlegmonous cavities merge into large foci, forming nodes of a red-violet hue.

Phlegmonous formations gradually break through and the purulent contents, often mixed with blood, come out through several holes. The course of the disease is long, it is very difficult to treat.

Conglobate

This is one of the most severe forms of acne. Conglobate acne often appears on the back, neck, chest, and buttocks. They represent many inflamed follicles that merge with neighboring areas of inflammation.

Such acne appears on the body of an adult, usually in men. They may be associated with testosterone intake or anabolic steroids. Another name for them is fulminant. The onset of the disease can occur as arthritis, followed by profuse formation of acne throughout the body. For adequate therapy condition, you should consult a dermatologist.

Acne conglobata may accompany genetic disease– Klinefelter syndrome (trisomy XXY). In this case, they can occur on any part of the body above the knees. The pathology is accompanied by purulent damage to the joints and kidneys.

Degrees of severity and principles of treatment

What pimples and in what quantity are observed with different severity of acne:

  • mild: less than 20 blackheads or white heads, less than 15 papules or pustules, and a total number of pimples of no more than 30;
  • moderate severity: from 20 to 100 comedones, up to 50 inflamed pimples or the total number of lesions up to 125;
  • severe: there are several abscessed blackheads of a dark red or purple hue.

How to deal with them?

For mild cases, it is enough to use special cosmetic lotions for 2 months. Medium severity lesions require medication. Treatment lasts several weeks, and often the severity of acne even increases in the first time after it begins.

In the severe stage, the main goal is to reduce inflammation and scarring. The doctor can prescribe a variety of medications and physical procedures that improve the appearance of the skin and the condition of the sebaceous glands.

Topical therapy is used to treat different types of acne. These are medications applied directly to the affected area - a variety of ointments and creams for acne. They contain substances such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfur and zinc derivatives. Prescription medications, such as antibacterial creams and ointments with retinoids, are also used.

For systemic therapy, tablet medications are used. Antibiotics are prescribed - tetracycline, doxycycline, erythromycin. They destroy bacteria that cause inflammation and suppuration of acne. If necessary, the doctor prescribes other medications:

  • oral contraceptives for normalization hormonal levels among women;
  • spironolactone;
  • antiandrogenic substances;
  • isotretinoin (vitamin A derivative).

Isotretinoin preparations are very effective in the treatment of acne. However, due to the sufficient quantity side effects and contraindications, they should be prescribed only by a doctor.

Other types of acne

In addition to acne, pimples can also occur due to certain diseases.

Psoriatic acne

Psoriatic acne, or guttate psoriasis, is not associated with blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. They are also not associated with pathogenic microbial flora of the skin. Psoriatic acne is multiple small painless yellow-pink pimples. They appear on the back and chest, then spread to the legs, less often to the face, ears, and scalp. In children, such pimples are often located around the anus, leading to severe itching.

The rash is usually associated with the activation of Candida fungi or yeast microorganisms that cause seborrheic dermatitis. Less commonly, it is caused by staphylococcus or papillomavirus. Immune system disorders affect the skin, leading to the appearance of small pimples. The disease is treated with glucocorticoids and ultraviolet irradiation.

Rosacea

The disease is caused by an increased reaction of the skin to external irritation and increased permeability blood capillaries. It appears as small red spots on the cheeks and nose. If larger vessels are affected, purple spots form in their place.

Increased vascular permeability is due to their altered reactivity to signals from nervous system. Therefore, rosacea lesions become brighter after drinking hot drinks, spicy food or, for example, when coming from a frost into a warm room. Rosacea breakouts are not associated with infection and require different treatment than regular acne.

Newborn acne

The elements are localized on the face and head of a newborn and infant. They look like small white pimples, less often tubercles (papules) and pustules. Such acne differs from an allergic rash by the unchanged surrounding skin, the absence of itching and the absence of association with the use of new types of food. General state the child does not change.

By three months the rash usually goes away. Its occurrence is due to hormonal imbalances in the mother during pregnancy. If neonatal acne persists in a child older than one year, this is no longer the norm and requires contacting a dermatologist.

Acne in children

This form of the disease is accompanied by the appearance in young children of a large number of inflammatory elements - papules (red bumps) and pustules (pustules). Usually the pathology is caused by malfunctions endocrine system child – adrenal hyperplasia, tumors that produce androgens. Therefore, when a rash appears, a thorough examination is necessary.

Inverse acne

Damage to the sebaceous glands in this pathology is accompanied by inflammation of the nearby sweat glands. As a result, large ulcers are formed that break through the skin. Typically, lesions are located under the arms, around the nipples, in the umbilical area and perineum.

Inverse acne occurs secondary to severe acne. Their appearance is promoted by skin irritation, sweating, obesity, and mechanical stress. They look like small elevated formations that gradually soften and open with the release of pus. Gradually, the lesion heals and scars with the formation of a rather large retracted scar. The course of the disease is long and difficult to treat.

How to remove acne scars on your face, read the previous article.

Lightning acne

This is a severe complication of ordinary inflammatory acne in youth. On the background stable flow illness, the temperature suddenly rises, signs of intoxication appear. Pustules appear on the skin of the entire body, with the exception of the head, quickly necrotizing with the formation of ulcers and subsequent scarring.

Acne fulminans more often affects adolescents with concomitant diseases digestive organs, for example, colitis or Crohn's disease. It is assumed that irrational treatment of acne with antibiotics, retinoids, and hormones plays a certain role in their appearance.

Tropical acne

Appears mainly in young women after using sunscreen cosmetics and exposure to the sun or in a solarium. It is caused by the comedogenic effect of such cosmetics, associated with blockage of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands with oxidized cocoa, sea buckthorn, and coconut oils contained in it.

The face, neck, shoulders, and arms are affected. White-headed comedones, papules and pustules appear on the skin. The rash appears in summer and disappears in winter.

Excoriated acne

This type of acne is a complication of common acne in people with neurosis obsessive states, more often in women. Having noticed a pimple, they immediately begin to squeeze it out, scratch it and damage the skin. As a result, joins bacterial infection, purulent elements appear that heal with the formation of scars.

Acne caused by endocrine diseases

Part of the pathogenesis of acne is a disturbance in the metabolism of hormones, primarily sex hormones. Therefore, many diseases accompanied by hormonal imbalance, accompanied by different types of acne. These include:

  • adrenogenital syndrome;
  • polycystic ovary syndrome;
  • adrenal tumor;
  • Itsenko-Cushing syndrome;
  • some pituitary tumors;
  • diabetes mellitus and others.

Rare forms

  • Keloid acne appears in young men who shave their heads. The reason lies in the damage to the hair follicles. If such a pathology occurs, you should stop washing the scalp with shampoo and begin treatment with benzoyl peroxide, glucocorticoids, and sometimes antibiotics.
  • Many bacterial diseases skin are accompanied by an acne-like rash. However, it is not acne vulgaris. In this case, the main complaints of the patient are other symptoms - itching, burning, redness.
  • Incorrect treatment of acne with antibiotics can be complicated by gram-negative folliculitis. The disease manifests itself as a pustular rash resembling acne, as well as the formation of deep abscesses.
  • Facial pyoderma is a severe form of acne that only affects women under 40 years of age. It is accompanied by the appearance of nodules and pustules on the face, which then open to form small ulcers followed by scarring. The disease begins suddenly, often in women who have never suffered from acne, and progresses quickly. Isotretinoin and systemic glucocorticoids are used in treatment.

What to do if acne appears

Acne of any type requires long-term treatment. Sometimes improvement occurs immediately, but more often the skin condition does not change during the first weeks or months. The patient should not take too many medications at once. This can cause dry skin and the body's response in the form of increased sebum production.

Pimples, ulcers on the head in the hair of an adult: causes, treatment

1 What are the signs of folliculitis of the scalp?

At the very beginning of the disease, the skin becomes red, inflamed, itchy, and painful. Hair may begin to fall out more than usual. When scratching, the hair can easily fall out along with the bulb. surrounded by pus. Increased flaking and greasiness of the scalp may occur.

Pimples on the head in the hair are usually small, white, and resemble in appearance goose bumps. Usually there are many pimples, they cover a large area of ​​​​the skin. When scratched, pus and blood are released.

Folliculitis and acne are two completely different diseases, although in both cases the symptoms may include acne on the scalp. Folliculitis is usually much more severe and takes longer to heal. These pimples differ from acne in that they occur at the base of the hair rather than in the pores. If the border between healthy and infected areas runs along the hairline, then we can confidently talk about folliculitis.

2 What causes pimples to appear on the scalp?

In winter, wearing scarves and high collars may cause acne to appear on the back of the head; in hot weather, the temporal zones, hairlines on the forehead and neck are especially susceptible to infection due to increased sweating.

Also, women who have the habit of washing only their bangs instead of washing their entire hair, and collecting dirty hair in a tight ponytail or bun and securing it with hair-fixing products, may experience acne on the back of the head.

If you are overweight, a deep fold of skin can form on the back of your head, and sweat, sebum, and dirt can accumulate in it. Infection can be caused by wearing leather and fur hats, which many people never wash at all, turning them into a breeding ground for bacteria. In addition, allergic reactions to wool and fur can weaken skin immunity. From this point of view, knitted and knitted products are much more hygienic and safer.

In people who wear glasses, local inflammation of the skin and rash may occur in the area where the temples meet the head. In this case, you need to regularly remove your glasses to let your skin breathe and disinfect the temples themselves. It is better to replace glasses with lenses during treatment.

Most often, folliculitis occurs on the scalp, since there are the most follicles there and they are located close to each other. But it can also spread to other parts of the body where hair grows: eyebrows, beard, armpits, pubis. With a weakened immune system, folliculitis can infect even areas covered with barely noticeable fuzz (this complication occurs much more often in men than in women).

HOW TO GET RID OF WARTS ON THE HEAD?

WARTS AND PAPILLOMAS ON THE HEAD ARE VERY COMMON. A simple way, without surgery and pain, will help you get rid of WARTS anywhere, very effectively! The chief oncologist shared his secret.

Folliculitis of the scalp is contagious. Moreover, you can not only infect your loved ones, but also constantly re-infect yourself with the help of hygiene supplies. Therefore, if symptoms are detected, you need to make it a rule to regularly disinfect hairpins, hair ties, combs, scissors, boil towels and pillowcases, treat shaving utensils with antiseptics and replace them with new ones in time, wash hats, dry them thoroughly when returning from the street. All these items must be individual - under no circumstances should they be given to other people.

3 Treatment methods

Treatment consists of three components:

  1. Correct hygiene care, which includes procedures for cleansing, moisturizing, nourishing and protecting.
  2. Traditional medicine.
  3. Medications.

To cure acne on the head under the hair, you need to provide the skin with proper care. Oily hair should be washed every day, normal hair - every other day, dry hair - once every 2 days. Shampoos and conditioners based on salicylic acid, zinc, birch tar, sulfur, oil are very effective tea tree or eucalyptus. To eliminate itchy skin, if there are no scratches on it, you can use products with menthol.

Shampoo and conditioner should be thoroughly rinsed, after which the hair can be rinsed with acidified vinegar or lemon juice cool water to restore the acid-base balance.

To cure acne on the head under the hair, you need to avoid blow-drying, using styling products, tight hairstyles, and shaving.

4 Folk remedies for solving the problem

During treatment, you must avoid any masks containing animal components: eggs, dairy products (including fermented milk), animal fats. Honey, despite its antibacterial properties, can also worsen the condition, as it can cause allergic reaction irritated skin and even burns. Instead of masks, it is better to use compresses and rinses based on the following products:

  • Apple vinegar;
  • lemon juice;
  • cinnamon;
  • decoction of chamomile, string, calendula, mint, rose hips, viburnum.

Can be used essential oils, diluted with water: conifers (spruce, fir, cedar), citrus fruits (lemon, orange, grapefruit). You can treat acne with tea tree oil. It can be used undiluted.

Alcohol solutions cannot be used for treatment, since although they have an antibacterial effect, they still dry out the skin, accelerating the death of the epidermis and destroying healthy microflora. Dead scales of the scalp, deprived immune defense, are an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria.

Under no circumstances should you squeeze pimples, as the infection can spread deep into the skin and lead to serious problems.

Subject to hygiene rules and doctor’s prescriptions, 5-6 days after the start of treatment, the pustules dry out to form a crust and disappear within 2-3 days. During this period, it is important not to scratch your head or pick off scabs, as this can lead to re-infection. In this case, bacteria may develop resistance to the antibiotic used, which will require the development of a new treatment regimen.

5 What to do if ulcers on the head do not go away?

If folliculitis cannot be treated at home, then you need to contact a dermatologist or trichologist to find out the reasons. Depending on the condition, the doctor may prescribe treatment after a visual examination or write a referral to analyze the contents of the pimple in order to identify the causative agent of the infection and prescribe an antibiotic.

Local treatment of demodicosis is ineffective. As a rule, the doctor prescribes a course of Metronidazole, Tinidazole, antibiotic wide range, antifungal drugs. To restore the body's protective functions, they are prescribed vitamin complexes. Since treatment destroys not only pathogenic microflora of the skin, but also beneficial ones, it is very important proper hygiene V recovery period, otherwise re-infection will occur and you will have to be treated again.

7 Preventing illness in newborns

The reasons why folliculitis develops in newborns are poorly developed glands responsible for moisturizing the skin and immature the immune system. Therefore, scalp folliculitis often occurs in infants. To prevent this, you need to carefully select cosmetics for hair care - do not dry out your hair with shampoo, do not create a greasy film on it with the help of nourishing creams, but also do not leave the skin without moisturizing. To prevent your child from getting an infection, you need to trim his nails on time, keep his hands clean, and wear special gloves. Caps, hats, pillowcases and diapers should be boiled and ironed with a hot iron. It is especially important to follow these measures if folliculitis has developed in an adult who is caring for a child.

8 Does diet affect skin condition?

Recommendations for nutrition if ulcers appear on the head are the same as for acne. The basis of the diet should be vegetables and greens, at least half of which should be consumed in fresh(the exception is white cabbage, as it leads to increased gas formation). It is best to combine vegetables with whole grain porridges and legumes (soybeans, lentils, chickpeas, mung bean). Fruits and berries are consumed fresh, separately from other products; citrus fruits are eaten only if allergies are 100% excluded. It is better to use unrefined oil, without heat treatment. During each meal, you can eat 2-3 nuts of different types. Animal products should be low-fat or low-fat. As heat treatment, use boiling, stewing, steaming or steaming, baking.

It is necessary to avoid certain foods at least for the duration of treatment:

  • sweets, baked goods, sweet carbonated drinks worsen the condition of microflora, lead to gas formation and slower peristalsis;
  • protein cow's milk is poorly absorbed by the vast majority of adults, which leads to digestive problems, so it is better to avoid fresh milk;
  • smoked, salted, pickled, canned foods are completely unhealthy food;
  • synthetic sweeteners can cause allergic reactions;
  • hot spices can cause skin irritation;
  • many patients discover a relationship between the occurrence of acne and the use of iodine preparations. Therefore, during treatment it is better to avoid iodized salt just in case.

To get rid of acne on your head, you need to watch what you eat, wash your hair with shampoo that suits you, be less upset and enjoy life more. And if you have such a problem and these methods do not help, then you need to consult a doctor. He will prescribe the necessary medications.

And a little about secrets.

You may have already tried some remedies to solve scalp problems:

All of them only fight external manifestations on the skin, but do not eliminate the cause; to get rid of crusts, pimples, red spots, lichens and dandruff on the head, read the interview with Dr. Sergei Rykov. where he explains in detail the cause of these skin problems, read HERE!