What are ingrown hair cysts. How do they develop. What are the best treatment options for ingrown hair cysts. How can you prevent ingrown hairs and subsequent cyst formation. What are the risks of untreated ingrown hair cysts.

Understanding Ingrown Hair Cysts: Formation and Symptoms

Ingrown hair cysts occur when hair strands grow downward or curl back into the skin instead of rising to the surface. This trapped hair can lead to the development of fluid-filled lumps beneath the skin, ranging from small, painless bumps to large, infected growths. Medical professionals may refer to these as epidermoid cysts or pilonidal cysts, depending on their specific characteristics.

The symptoms of ingrown hair cysts can vary, but typically include:

• Swelling around the affected area
• Formation of hard or soft lumps, varying in size
• Possible development of white or yellow heads on surface-level cysts
• Redness, itching, and tenderness if infection occurs

While ingrown hair cysts are generally not dangerous, they can cause significant discomfort and may lead to complications if left untreated. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help in prevention and early intervention.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Ingrown Hair Cysts

Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown hair cysts:

1. Hair removal methods: Shaving, waxing, or plucking can increase the risk of ingrown hairs
2. Tight clothing: Friction from close-fitting garments can push hair back into the skin
3. Coarse or curly hair: These hair types are more prone to growing back into the skin
4. Dead skin cell buildup: Excess dead skin can block hair follicles, leading to ingrown hairs
5. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels can affect hair growth patterns

Can certain areas of the body be more prone to ingrown hair cysts? Yes, regions with coarse hair or subject to frequent hair removal, such as the face, neck, pubic area, and legs, are more susceptible to developing ingrown hair cysts.

Effective Home Remedies for Ingrown Hair Cysts

Many ingrown hair cysts resolve without medical intervention. Here are some home remedies that can accelerate healing:

• Maintain cleanliness: Keep the affected area clean to prevent infection
• Apply warm compresses: Use for 10-15 minutes several times daily to encourage drainage
• Avoid shaving: Refrain from hair removal around the cyst to prevent bacterial introduction
• Use antiseptic solutions: Apply tea tree oil or triple antibiotic ointments to ward off infection
• Resist popping: Avoid the temptation to pop the cyst, as this can lead to scarring and infection

Is it safe to remove visible ingrown hairs? If an ingrown hair is visible above the skin surface, carefully removing it with clean tweezers may expedite healing. However, avoid digging into the skin to extract fully embedded hairs.

Medical Treatments for Persistent or Severe Ingrown Hair Cysts

When home remedies prove ineffective or symptoms worsen, medical intervention may be necessary. Consult a healthcare professional if:

• The cyst persists or grows larger
• Pain, redness, or oozing increases
• You develop a fever
• A foreign object is present in the cyst
• You have a compromised immune system
• The cyst significantly impacts daily life

Medical treatments for ingrown hair cysts may include:

1. Prescription antibiotics to address underlying infections
2. Surgical removal of the cyst under local anesthesia
3. Steroid injections to reduce inflammation
4. Incision and drainage for large or infected cysts

How long does recovery typically take after medical treatment? Recovery time varies depending on the treatment method and individual healing factors, but most patients experience significant improvement within a few days to a couple of weeks.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing the Risk of Ingrown Hair Cysts

Preventing ingrown hair cysts involves adopting proper hair removal techniques and skin care practices:

• Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells
• Use sharp, clean razors and shave in the direction of hair growth
• Consider alternative hair removal methods like depilatory creams or laser hair removal
• Moisturize skin to keep it supple and reduce friction
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to minimize skin irritation

Are there specific products designed to prevent ingrown hairs? Yes, various exfoliating scrubs, serums, and lotions are formulated to reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs. Look for products containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or tea tree oil.

Potential Complications of Untreated Ingrown Hair Cysts

While most ingrown hair cysts are benign, leaving them untreated can lead to complications:

1. Infection: Bacteria can enter the cyst, causing a more severe infection
2. Abscess formation: Pus-filled abscesses may develop, requiring medical drainage
3. Scarring: Chronic inflammation or improper handling can result in permanent scarring
4. Cellulitis: In rare cases, the infection may spread to surrounding tissues
5. Sepsis: If left unchecked, severe infections can potentially enter the bloodstream

Can ingrown hair cysts become cancerous? While extremely rare, there have been isolated reports of malignant transformations in long-standing cysts. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment of persistent cysts are advisable.

Special Considerations: Ingrown Hair Cysts in Sensitive Areas

Ingrown hair cysts in sensitive regions, such as the pubic area or buttocks, require extra care:

• Practice gentle hygiene to avoid irritation
• Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products
• Consider hair removal alternatives like trimming instead of shaving
• Wear breathable, cotton underwear to reduce moisture and friction
• Seek medical advice promptly if symptoms worsen or persist

Are there specific treatments for pilonidal cysts? Pilonidal cysts, often occurring near the tailbone, may require specialized treatments such as marsupialization or flap surgery in severe cases.

The Impact of Hormones on Ingrown Hair Cysts

Hormonal fluctuations can significantly influence the development of ingrown hair cysts. During puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, changes in hormone levels can alter hair growth patterns and skin texture, potentially increasing the risk of ingrown hairs and subsequent cyst formation.

Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also play a role in exacerbating ingrown hair issues due to hormonal imbalances. Individuals with PCOS may experience excessive hair growth (hirsutism) in areas typically associated with male hair patterns, leading to a higher incidence of ingrown hairs and cysts.

Can hormonal medications affect ingrown hair cyst development? Yes, certain hormonal medications, such as androgen-based treatments or birth control pills, can influence hair growth and potentially impact the frequency of ingrown hairs and cysts.

The Role of Genetics in Ingrown Hair Susceptibility

Genetic factors can predispose individuals to ingrown hairs and related cysts. Inherited traits such as hair texture, skin type, and follicle shape can all contribute to an increased likelihood of developing these issues. For example:

• Individuals with naturally curly or coarse hair are more prone to ingrown hairs
• Certain ethnic groups may have a higher predisposition due to hair texture
• Family history of frequent ingrown hairs or cysts can indicate a genetic component

While genetic predisposition cannot be changed, understanding one’s risk factors can help in adopting more vigilant prevention strategies and early intervention techniques.

Innovative Treatments and Future Perspectives

As dermatological research progresses, new treatments for ingrown hair cysts are emerging:

1. Laser therapy: Targeting hair follicles to reduce hair growth in problematic areas
2. Topical retinoids: Promoting cell turnover and preventing follicular obstruction
3. Photodynamic therapy: Using light-sensitive medications to target and destroy cyst-forming cells
4. Immunomodulators: Regulating the immune response to reduce inflammation and cyst formation

What advancements can we expect in ingrown hair cyst treatment? Future research may focus on developing more targeted therapies, such as personalized topical treatments based on individual skin and hair profiles, or advanced minimally invasive procedures for cyst removal.

The Psychological Impact of Recurrent Ingrown Hair Cysts

While often considered a purely physical issue, chronic ingrown hair cysts can have significant psychological effects on individuals. The visible nature of these skin conditions, especially when occurring in exposed areas, can lead to:

• Reduced self-esteem and body image issues
• Social anxiety and avoidance behaviors
• Depression or mood disturbances
• Stress-related exacerbation of the condition

Addressing the psychological aspects of dealing with recurrent ingrown hair cysts is crucial for holistic patient care. Healthcare providers should consider the emotional impact and offer appropriate support or referrals when necessary.

Dietary Influences on Skin Health and Ingrown Hair Prevention

While diet may not directly cause or prevent ingrown hair cysts, overall skin health can be influenced by nutritional factors. A balanced diet rich in certain nutrients may contribute to healthier skin and potentially reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and subsequent cyst formation:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Help maintain skin elasticity and reduce inflammation
• Vitamins A, C, and E: Support skin cell turnover and protect against oxidative stress
• Zinc: Aids in wound healing and may help regulate oil production
• Hydration: Adequate water intake helps maintain skin moisture and elasticity

Can specific foods help prevent ingrown hairs? While no single food can prevent ingrown hairs, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can contribute to overall skin health, potentially reducing the likelihood of skin-related issues.

Environmental Factors and Ingrown Hair Cyst Development

Environmental conditions can play a role in the development and exacerbation of ingrown hair cysts. Factors to consider include:

1. Climate: Hot, humid environments can increase sweating and skin irritation
2. Pollution: Airborne particles can clog pores and contribute to follicle obstruction
3. Sun exposure: UV radiation can affect skin cell turnover and healing processes
4. Occupational hazards: Certain professions may expose skin to irritants or require tight-fitting uniforms

Understanding these environmental influences can help individuals take appropriate precautions, such as using protective clothing, maintaining proper hygiene in challenging conditions, and adjusting skincare routines based on environmental exposures.

The Importance of Professional Skin Assessments

Regular skin assessments by dermatologists or qualified healthcare professionals can be beneficial, especially for individuals prone to ingrown hair cysts. These assessments can:

• Identify early signs of potential cyst formation
• Provide personalized advice on prevention strategies
• Assess the effectiveness of current treatments or routines
• Screen for any underlying skin conditions that may contribute to cyst development
• Offer guidance on appropriate hair removal methods based on individual skin and hair type

How often should one undergo professional skin assessments? The frequency of assessments can vary based on individual needs and risk factors. Generally, an annual skin check is recommended, with more frequent visits for those with recurring issues or high-risk factors.

Integrating Technology in Ingrown Hair Cyst Management

Advancements in technology are offering new ways to manage and monitor ingrown hair cysts:

1. Smartphone apps: Track cyst occurrences, set treatment reminders, and log effective remedies
2. Telemedicine consultations: Allow for remote assessment and guidance from healthcare providers
3. High-resolution skin imaging: Enable detailed monitoring of cyst progression and treatment efficacy
4. AI-powered skin analysis: Assist in early detection and personalized treatment recommendations

These technological tools can empower individuals to take a more proactive approach in managing their skin health and preventing ingrown hair cysts.

As research continues and our understanding of skin health evolves, new strategies for preventing and treating ingrown hair cysts are likely to emerge. Staying informed about the latest developments and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers can help individuals effectively manage this common skin concern and maintain overall dermatological health.

Ingrown hair cyst: Treatments, causes, and prevention

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

An ingrown hair occurs when the strand grows downward instead of upward and becomes trapped under the skin. Ingrown hairs can cause cysts to develop. These lumps can resemble boils or other skin issues.

This can range from a small, painless lump to a large, infected growth. If a doctor diagnoses it, they may call it an epidermoid cyst or a pilonidal cyst.

Ingrown hairs are not usually dangerous, but they can be intensely painful. If an infection is left untreated, it may worsen or travel to the blood.

In this article, we discuss why ingrown hairs happen, how a cyst can develop, and how to stop this from happening.

Share on PinterestIngrown hairs are not dangerous, but they can be painful.

When a hair grows into the skin, a fluid-filled lump can develop, which may become a cyst. When a cyst forms, the area becomes swollen.

A cyst may be hard, soft, large, or smaller than a pea. Some cysts can develop deep under the skin, while others may be near the surface, where they can develop a white or yellow head.

Usually, cysts do not hurt unless an infection develops. An infected cyst may be red, itchy, and tender.

Cysts that result from an ingrown hair often go away without treatment. Often, home treatment can help, but sometimes, a person will need to see a doctor.

The following tips can help speed up healing:

Home remedies

• Keep the cyst and the area around it clean at all times.
• Avoid shaving areas around the cyst, as this can introduce bacteria and cause an infection.
• Apply warm compresses to the cyst for 10–15 minutes several times a day. These might bring the cyst closer to the surface, allowing it to drain. If the hair is trapped under the skin, warm compresses may help it grow out.
• Apply an antiseptic solution, such as tea tree oil, to the cyst to prevent infection. Triple antibiotic ointments may also help and are available for purchase online.

Avoid picking or popping the cyst. Cysts develop from a sac under the skin, which can fill with a thick, yellow substance called keratin. Popping the cyst may release the liquid but will not get rid of the sac, and the cyst may grow back. Popping a cyst can also introduce bacteria to the skin, causing infection or making the cyst worse.

Sometimes, an ingrown hair is visible above the skin before it curls underneath. If this is the case, removing it may speed up healing. People can use clean tweezers to grab the hair and remove it.

They should not try this if the hair is completely under the skin, or if it is necessary to dig into the skin to remove it. Instead, the person should leave the hair alone.

Medical treatment

Sometimes, a person will need medical treatment for a cyst. They should see a doctor if:

• a cyst does not clear up on its own
• the cyst is very painful, red, or continues to ooze
• a fever develops alongside the cyst
• a foreign object is in the cyst, such as a splinter or piece of glass
• a condition, such as HIV, AIDS, uncontrolled diabetes, or medication, has weakened the immune system
• the cyst is very large or is affecting daily life, such as becoming stuck on clothing

A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear up an underlying infection or may recommend removing the cyst surgically.

Removal of a cyst is usually possible at a doctor’s office, under local anesthetic. Local anesthetic enables a fast recovery time and allows the individual to remain awake during the procedure.

Share on PinterestIf a hair gets trapped under the skin before it leaves the follicle, it becomes an ingrown hair.

Cysts can appear for various reasons, but when it stems from an ingrown hair, the following happens.

All hairs grow from a hair follicle, sometimes called a pore. This is a tiny opening in the skin, with a complex underlying structure that nourishes the hair.

Sometimes, a hair gets trapped under the skin before it leaves the follicle, resulting in an ingrown hair. At other times, a hair grows out of the follicle but curls back on itself and reenters the skin.

When hair becomes trapped underneath the skin, it can irritate the skin. It also blocks the hair follicle, trapping various substances in the pore. A cyst can develop.

Skin cysts often contain keratin, a protein that keeps skin strong and flexible. But sometimes, cysts arise from trapped bacteria or inflammatory response to an infection.

To reduce the risk of cysts developing from an ingrown hair, people can try the following:

• Use shaving cream and aftershave to soothe the skin. A range of shaving products are available for purchase online.
• Shave with a sharp razor only.
• Moisturize well with a rich lotion when the skin is dry or after shaving. Compare aftershave lotions online.
• Exfoliate dull, dry skin before shaving.
• Shave in the direction of hair growth.
• Do not shave over irritated or red skin.

Risk factors

Anyone can develop ingrown hairs. Risk factors for developing ingrown hairs include:

• Hair removal techniques: Shaving, waxing, and plucking can irritate the skin. After shaving, the hair that grows back may have a sharper edge, making it easier for it to grow into the skin.
• Very dry skin: Dry and dead skin can accumulate over a hair follicle, trapping the growing hair underneath.
• Pressure or friction: This can be a problem, particularly in an area already vulnerable to ingrown hairs. By irritating the skin, it can make ingrown hairs more likely.
• Having coarse, curly, or thick hair: This type of hair is more likely to curl back under the skin when it exits the hair follicle.

Share on PinterestDry skin may indicate that the problem is not a cyst.

When a lump appears in an area where there is body hair, it may be because a cyst has formed around an ingrown hair.

A person should look for a small red bump with a hair in it that slowly grows into a bigger lump. Many cysts of this type develop in areas covered in razor burn.

Some signs that the problem might not be a cyst include:

• a mole that has changed shape or color, or becomes swollen
• red or irritated patches on the skin
• the skin is peeling or has dry patches
• a skin injury, even a small one from a splinter or minor cut, as this could mean a skin infection
• the cyst has no clear borders (normally, cysts are round lumps, so an unusually shaped swelling, or one that changes shape, could be something else)
• there are many painful ingrown hairs, which could be due to a bacterial infection in the hair follicles
• the skin is very dry with many small bumps that can have heads, as this could be a condition called keratosis pilaris

When to see a doctor

It is easy to mistake a harmless cyst for a more serious skin condition. Anyone who has a cyst that does not clear up after a week or two should see their doctor.

Prompt treatment can be lifesaving in the case of skin cancer, serious skin infections, and other dangerous skin problems.

Preventing ingrown hairs is the best way to prevent this type of cyst from developing. However, if cysts do appear, they are usually harmless and often go away on their own.

People who frequently develop cysts, razor burn, or ingrown hairs should ask their doctor about strategies for reducing the occurrence of these annoying skin conditions.

In most cases, a few changes in a person’s skin care routine can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and the related irritation.

Read this article in Spanish.

Ingrown hair cyst: Treatments, causes, and prevention

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

An ingrown hair occurs when the strand grows downward instead of upward and becomes trapped under the skin. Ingrown hairs can cause cysts to develop. These lumps can resemble boils or other skin issues.

This can range from a small, painless lump to a large, infected growth. If a doctor diagnoses it, they may call it an epidermoid cyst or a pilonidal cyst.

Ingrown hairs are not usually dangerous, but they can be intensely painful. If an infection is left untreated, it may worsen or travel to the blood.

In this article, we discuss why ingrown hairs happen, how a cyst can develop, and how to stop this from happening.

Share on PinterestIngrown hairs are not dangerous, but they can be painful.

When a hair grows into the skin, a fluid-filled lump can develop, which may become a cyst. When a cyst forms, the area becomes swollen.

A cyst may be hard, soft, large, or smaller than a pea. Some cysts can develop deep under the skin, while others may be near the surface, where they can develop a white or yellow head.

Usually, cysts do not hurt unless an infection develops. An infected cyst may be red, itchy, and tender.

Cysts that result from an ingrown hair often go away without treatment. Often, home treatment can help, but sometimes, a person will need to see a doctor.

The following tips can help speed up healing:

Home remedies

• Keep the cyst and the area around it clean at all times.
• Avoid shaving areas around the cyst, as this can introduce bacteria and cause an infection.
• Apply warm compresses to the cyst for 10–15 minutes several times a day. These might bring the cyst closer to the surface, allowing it to drain. If the hair is trapped under the skin, warm compresses may help it grow out.
• Apply an antiseptic solution, such as tea tree oil, to the cyst to prevent infection. Triple antibiotic ointments may also help and are available for purchase online.

Avoid picking or popping the cyst. Cysts develop from a sac under the skin, which can fill with a thick, yellow substance called keratin. Popping the cyst may release the liquid but will not get rid of the sac, and the cyst may grow back. Popping a cyst can also introduce bacteria to the skin, causing infection or making the cyst worse.

Sometimes, an ingrown hair is visible above the skin before it curls underneath. If this is the case, removing it may speed up healing. People can use clean tweezers to grab the hair and remove it.

They should not try this if the hair is completely under the skin, or if it is necessary to dig into the skin to remove it. Instead, the person should leave the hair alone.

Medical treatment

Sometimes, a person will need medical treatment for a cyst. They should see a doctor if:

• a cyst does not clear up on its own
• the cyst is very painful, red, or continues to ooze
• a fever develops alongside the cyst
• a foreign object is in the cyst, such as a splinter or piece of glass
• a condition, such as HIV, AIDS, uncontrolled diabetes, or medication, has weakened the immune system
• the cyst is very large or is affecting daily life, such as becoming stuck on clothing

A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear up an underlying infection or may recommend removing the cyst surgically.

Removal of a cyst is usually possible at a doctor’s office, under local anesthetic. Local anesthetic enables a fast recovery time and allows the individual to remain awake during the procedure.

Share on PinterestIf a hair gets trapped under the skin before it leaves the follicle, it becomes an ingrown hair.

Cysts can appear for various reasons, but when it stems from an ingrown hair, the following happens.

All hairs grow from a hair follicle, sometimes called a pore. This is a tiny opening in the skin, with a complex underlying structure that nourishes the hair.

Sometimes, a hair gets trapped under the skin before it leaves the follicle, resulting in an ingrown hair. At other times, a hair grows out of the follicle but curls back on itself and reenters the skin.

When hair becomes trapped underneath the skin, it can irritate the skin. It also blocks the hair follicle, trapping various substances in the pore. A cyst can develop.

Skin cysts often contain keratin, a protein that keeps skin strong and flexible. But sometimes, cysts arise from trapped bacteria or inflammatory response to an infection.

To reduce the risk of cysts developing from an ingrown hair, people can try the following:

• Use shaving cream and aftershave to soothe the skin. A range of shaving products are available for purchase online.
• Shave with a sharp razor only.
• Moisturize well with a rich lotion when the skin is dry or after shaving. Compare aftershave lotions online.
• Exfoliate dull, dry skin before shaving.
• Shave in the direction of hair growth.
• Do not shave over irritated or red skin.

Risk factors

Anyone can develop ingrown hairs. Risk factors for developing ingrown hairs include:

• Hair removal techniques: Shaving, waxing, and plucking can irritate the skin. After shaving, the hair that grows back may have a sharper edge, making it easier for it to grow into the skin.
• Very dry skin: Dry and dead skin can accumulate over a hair follicle, trapping the growing hair underneath.
• Pressure or friction: This can be a problem, particularly in an area already vulnerable to ingrown hairs. By irritating the skin, it can make ingrown hairs more likely.
• Having coarse, curly, or thick hair: This type of hair is more likely to curl back under the skin when it exits the hair follicle.

Share on PinterestDry skin may indicate that the problem is not a cyst.

When a lump appears in an area where there is body hair, it may be because a cyst has formed around an ingrown hair.

A person should look for a small red bump with a hair in it that slowly grows into a bigger lump. Many cysts of this type develop in areas covered in razor burn.

Some signs that the problem might not be a cyst include:

• a mole that has changed shape or color, or becomes swollen
• red or irritated patches on the skin
• the skin is peeling or has dry patches
• a skin injury, even a small one from a splinter or minor cut, as this could mean a skin infection
• the cyst has no clear borders (normally, cysts are round lumps, so an unusually shaped swelling, or one that changes shape, could be something else)
• there are many painful ingrown hairs, which could be due to a bacterial infection in the hair follicles
• the skin is very dry with many small bumps that can have heads, as this could be a condition called keratosis pilaris

When to see a doctor

It is easy to mistake a harmless cyst for a more serious skin condition. Anyone who has a cyst that does not clear up after a week or two should see their doctor.

Prompt treatment can be lifesaving in the case of skin cancer, serious skin infections, and other dangerous skin problems.

Preventing ingrown hairs is the best way to prevent this type of cyst from developing. However, if cysts do appear, they are usually harmless and often go away on their own.

People who frequently develop cysts, razor burn, or ingrown hairs should ask their doctor about strategies for reducing the occurrence of these annoying skin conditions.

In most cases, a few changes in a person’s skin care routine can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and the related irritation.

Read this article in Spanish.

Folliculitis: treatment, diagnosis, symptoms

Folliculitis is an infectious process that develops in the middle and deep sections of human hair follicles. Pathology is accompanied by the formation of multiple pustules with purulent contents. The causative agent of the disease can be bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. As the infection progresses, the number of pustules on the patient’s skin increases. When the primary focus is opened, ulcers form, and when they heal, small scars form.

General information

Pathology is widespread among residents of countries with high humidity and air temperature. Such climatic conditions contribute to the spread of infectious lesions of the hair follicles. The risk group is represented by socially disadvantaged segments of the population: a person’s non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene leads to the active reproduction of pathogens on the skin.

Often the causes of folliculitis are superficial inflammation of the follicles – ostiofolliculitis. The spread of infection in the lower parts of the follicle leads to the formation of purulent pustules.

Reasons for the development of pathology

In 70% of cases, inflammation of the hair follicles develops under the influence of staphylococci and streptococci. Somewhat less often, Pseudomonas, causative agents of syphilis and gonorrhea, or fungi of the Candida species become the causes of the disease. Molluscum contagiosum and herpes zoster viruses are less common causes of folliculitis. About 10% of clinically recorded cases of inflammation of the hair follicles are manifested against the background of the activity of parasitic mites Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis.

Pathogens enter the follicles through damaged areas: scratches and abrasions. Persons suffering from itchy dermatitis and excessive sweating are susceptible to infection. The weakening of the patient’s immunity leads to the penetration of the infection into the hair follicles. For this reason, dermatologists recommend preventive measures for men and women diagnosed with diabetes and chronic infections. Often the disease manifests itself in HIV-infected people and patients taking immunosuppressants.

Types of pathology

In the process of diagnosing folliculitis, dermatologists determine the form of the disease that the patient suffers from. So, the staphylococcal type of pathology is often localized on the face of men, affecting the chin and the skin around the lips. Infection occurs in the process of shaving bristly hair.

The pseudomonas form of the disease is the result of bathing the patient in hot water with an insufficient level of chlorination. The heat opens up the pores for pathogens to enter. Foci of inflammation are formed on the face and upper body of a child or adult.

The syphilitic type of pathology develops against the background of secondary syphilis. Typical symptoms of this form of folliculitis are the formation of areas of bristly hair loss in men and multiple pustules on the temples in women.

The herpetic type of hair follicle infections affects the skin of the chin and nasolabial triangle of patients. It is characterized by the formation of large vesicles in the follicular orifices.

The candidal form of the pathology manifests itself when occlusive dressings are applied to the patient’s skin, preventing pathogenic microflora from entering the wound on the chest.

The gonorrheal type of the disease becomes a complication of gonococcal infection. Pustules form in the perineum (in women) and on the foreskin (in men).

Folliculitis caused by ticks can be localized on any part of the human skin. The activity of Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis leads to the formation of clusters of small pustules.

Symptoms of pathology

Symptoms of folliculitis in men and women are the same in most forms of the disease – dermatologists prescribe similar treatment for patients of both sexes. The most pronounced sign of an infectious lesion of the hair follicle is a single pustule filled with purulent contents, the center of which is permeated with hair. After a few days, the formation opens on its own, separating a small amount of pus. In place of the pustule, an ulcer with a dense bloody-purulent crust is formed. The healing of the resulting wound leads to the formation of a focus of hyperpigmentation or a scar.

In 80% of clinically diagnosed cases of the disease, multiple pustules form on the skin of patients. Common places of their localization are the face, scalp, armpits, pubis, inner thighs. Severe soreness and itching appear after the formation of a large accumulation of pustules. In the absence of medical care and refusal to comply with the rules of personal hygiene, the patient may experience complications: abscesses, phlegmon and hydradenitis.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis is made by a dermatologist. The doctor examines the patient, during which he performs dermatoscopy. The study of damaged hair follicles using an optical device allows you to establish the depth of penetration of pathogens into the structures of the dermis. Samples from pustules obtained during the examination are subjected to laboratory tests. The study of biomaterials in the laboratory is performed to identify the causative agent of the infection. If signs of gonorrhea or syphilis are detected, the doctor directs the patient for PCR testing.

Differential diagnosis allows doctors to exclude drug toxicoderma, pink lichen, streptococcal impetigo, furunculosis and ostiofolliculitis from the patient’s history.

Treatment

The tactics of treating folliculitis is determined by the doctor, taking into account the type of disease identified in the patient. With a bacterial type of pathogens, antibiotic ointments are indicated for adults and children. The fight against pathogens of a fungal nature is carried out with the help of antifungal agents. Antiviral drugs are used to combat the herpetic form of the disease.

Local therapy in the treatment of folliculitis localized on the face is effective at the initial stage of the disease. When multiple pustules appear, the patient will need to treat the rash with alcohol solutions of brilliant green or fucarcin. You can stop the spread of infection with regular treatment of the skin with salicylic or boric alcohol. An auxiliary therapeutic measure is ultraviolet irradiation of the body and limbs of a child or adult.

The complicated course of the pathology requires complex therapy aimed at treating the underlying cause of folliculitis – gonorrhea or syphilis.

Diagnostics and treatment of folliculitis in Moscow

JSC “Medicina” (clinic of Academician Roitberg) has all the necessary equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of infectious lesions of the hair follicles. Patients are admitted in a modern diagnostic complex, built with the latest advances in medicine.

Questions and answers

Which doctor treats human hair follicle infections?

– Treatment of pathology is carried out by a dermatologist. With a complicated course of the disease, the patient may need to consult with other doctors – a venereologist, an immunologist, a general practitioner.

Are there measures to prevent folliculitis?

— Adults and children are advised to avoid contact with chemicals that can lead to skin damage and the penetration of pathogens to the hair follicles. Persons suffering from diabetes and increased sweating should carefully observe the rules of personal hygiene.

Is the infection transmitted from a carrier to a healthy person?

– The probability of infection of a healthy person upon contact with a carrier of the disease exists. For this reason, dermatologists do not recommend that children and adults share towels and personal hygiene products.

What is an epidermal cyst, its causes and treatment || Centromed Medical Center

Epidermal cyst or atheroma is a cavity limited by a capsule, which is filled with sebum and horny masses. It occurs more often in young and middle-aged people, regardless of gender.

Epidermal cyst – causes

The mechanism of development of the pathological process, in which epidermal sebaceous cyst is formed , consists in blockage of the duct of the sebaceous gland, while its secret accumulates. Over time, the volume of accumulated sebum increases, horny masses, which are exfoliated epidermal cells, join. There are several reasons for the development of such a formation:

• Metabolic disorder, which leads to a thicker consistency of sebum with blockage of the gland ducts.
• Inflammatory processes of the skin (including acne or acne, as well as inflammation of the hair follicles) – lead to edema, which reduces the diameter of the excretory ducts of the glands.
• Traumatization of the skin, followed by scarring, while the connective tissue compresses the ducts of the sebaceous glands.
• Insufficient hygiene – leads to clogging of the sebaceous glands with horny skin scales.
• Excessive passion for various cosmetic products or their incorrect use.
• Hormonal imbalance, in which the regulation of the formation of sebum, as well as its release to the surface, is disturbed.
• Genetic predisposition.

Simultaneous exposure to several causes significantly increases the risk of developing such a bulky skin lesion.

Manifestations of atheroma

Atheroma has characteristic manifestations in the form of a painless bulge that is not soldered to the surrounding tissues and does not differ in color. The diameter of the formation is different, it can reach 10 cm in diameter. Favorite localization of atheroma – skin areas rich in sebaceous glands (face, scalp, ears). Somewhat less often, sebaceous atheromas can form on the skin of the back and chest.

Accession of inflammation (it provokes the penetration of a bacterial infection) is characterized by reddening of atheroma, the appearance of pain. Further development of the infectious process causes the accumulation of pus in the atheroma cavity, which can go outside through the fistula, or cause purulent fusion of surrounding healthy tissues.

Epidermal cyst – treatment

The formation has a benign course, it is characterized by slow progression and growth. However, the risk of bacterial infection with the development of a purulent process or a cosmetic defect is an indication for the radical treatment of this disease, which consists in its removal.