Folliculitis is an inflammation of one or more hair follicles. This condition may affect all areas of the body covered with hair. In general, folliculitis is caused by an infection: the causative agent usually being Staphylococcus aureus. This disease is characterized by a swelling that occurs at the base of a follicle containing a hair. Normally, folliculitis is benign but when it becomes recurrent it can lead to deep folliculitis. This form is frequently linked to burning sensations and pain that cause the person to scratch the affected area. Superficial folliculitis can be treated by good hygiene while deep folliculitis requires drug treatments. These treatments target the fungi or bacteria responsible for the inflammation.
The symptoms of folliculitis depend on the evolution of the infection. In case of superficial inflammation, the symptoms consist of a cluster of pimples that forms at the base of each hair follicle. Sometimes folliculitis be confused with acne. To distinguish between these two conditions, know that the difference lies in the shape of the pimple: in case of folliculitis, the hair is seen through the pimple. In addition, folliculitis mostly tends to occur at the base of the neck or groin. Itching located in the groin sometimes leads to lesions around the genitals. When folliculitis occurs, the area where the pimples are located is often red due to itching.
Regarding less severe cases, treatment against folliculitis is Pyrogenium-based, diluted to 7 or 9 CH, and requiring the intake of a 5-granule dose in the morning and evening. If the state of the lesions does not improve after 2 days of treatment, it is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
For the homoeopathic treatment of folliculitis that affects nose and upper lip, take Hydrastis 5 CH combined with Pyrogenium 5 CH and Arsenicum Album 5 CH.
The homoeopathic remedy Sulphur Iodatum is indicated for the treatment of pimples caused by superficial folliculitis. In that case, suck on 5 granules of Sulphur Iodatum 9 CH once a day. Once every 7 days, alternate the 10-granule intake of Staphylococcinum 9 CH with Graphites 9 CH and Thuja 9 CH.
Knowing that folliculitis is a mild inflammation, good hygiene of the affected areas usually helps to heal them after 2 or 3 days. If the inflammations persist and begin to fester, immediately go to a doctor to receive adequate treatment.
• Pyrogenium
• Sulphur Iodatum
Good to know: If folliculitis persists despite the administered treatment, an in-depth examination needs to be carried out. Indeed, it is essential to rule out hidradenitis suppurativa, given that this skin disease presents the same symptoms as folliculitis.
