How to Treat Folliculitis After Hair Removal: Effective Solutions

How to treat folliculitis?

I noticed that after removing my leg hair by plucking, it grew back but became trapped under the skin due to rapid skin growth.
This resulted in increasingly noticeable dark spots in the pores, leading me to use a fine needle to extract them.
However, this caused small red spots to appear, and I heard that this might be folliculitis.
Since I extracted from many areas, my entire lower leg became red.
Initially, I treated it as a common dermatitis and applied a topical ointment similar to menthol cream.
After a few days, the redness subsided, but there are still dark deposits, and some areas have not completely resolved the redness and swelling.
I feel this resembles the dark, dry skin left from a cut (I’m unsure of the medical term for this), and I find it unsightly.
I am concerned whether this will gradually fade; if not, it may leave dark, unattractive spots around the hair follicles on my lower leg.
Should I use an exfoliating cream or antibiotics to address this issue? I would greatly appreciate your guidance on how to resolve this concerning problem.

nanly, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/04/20

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

I couldn't find the ingredient for mentamue; perhaps you misspelled it or it may not be an FDA-approved medication.
To address your issue, it's not advisable to buy an ointment on your own.
Instead, you should consult a nearby dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2001/04/20

More Info

Folliculitis, which is the inflammation of hair follicles, can occur after hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing, or plucking. Your situation seems to have developed due to the removal of leg hair, leading to blocked follicles and subsequent inflammation. The appearance of red spots and dark deposits on your skin indicates that your skin is reacting to the irritation caused by the hair removal process and possibly the method of extraction you used.

To effectively treat folliculitis and improve the appearance of your skin, consider the following steps:
1. Avoid Further Irritation: First and foremost, it’s crucial to stop any further hair removal methods that may exacerbate the condition. This includes plucking or using any harsh products on the affected area. Allow your skin to heal naturally.

2. Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash the affected area. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can further irritate the skin. Look for products that are fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin.

3. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter topical treatments can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Look for creams or ointments containing ingredients like hydrocortisone, which can reduce redness and swelling, or benzoyl peroxide, which can help with bacterial growth. However, use these sparingly and only as directed.

4. Antibiotics: If your folliculitis is severe or does not improve with topical treatments, you may need to consult a healthcare professional. They might prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to address any bacterial infection that may be contributing to the inflammation.

5. Exfoliation: Once the redness and inflammation have subsided, gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and prevent future blockages. Look for exfoliating products that are gentle and suitable for sensitive skin. Chemical exfoliants containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) can be effective without the harshness of physical scrubs.

6. Moisturization: Keeping the skin moisturized is essential for healing. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to help soothe the skin and maintain its barrier function. Look for products that contain ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid.

7. Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing can help reduce friction and irritation on the affected area, allowing it to heal more effectively.

8. Sun Protection: If you have dark spots or hyperpigmentation as a result of the inflammation, protecting your skin from the sun is crucial. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to prevent further darkening of the affected areas.

9. Consult a Dermatologist: If your condition does not improve or worsens, it is important to seek professional help. A dermatologist can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your specific needs.

In summary, managing folliculitis effectively involves a combination of gentle skin care, avoiding further irritation, and possibly using topical or oral medications if necessary. With proper care, the appearance of your skin should improve over time, and any dark spots or redness should gradually fade. Remember that patience is key, as skin healing can take time.

Similar Q&A

How to Treat Folliculitis After Hair Removal: Effective Solutions

I noticed that after removing my leg hair by plucking, it grew back but became trapped under the skin due to rapid skin growth. As a result, the appearance of fine dark hairs within the pores became increasingly noticeable. I had to use a fine needle to extract them, which led to...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
I couldn't find the ingredient for mentamue; perhaps you misspelled it or it may not be an FDA-approved medication. To address your issue, it's not advisable to buy an ointment on your own. Instead, you should seek out a nearby dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis an...

Understanding Folliculitis: Treatment Options and Recovery Tips

Hello Doctor, today I went to see a gynecologist because of folliculitis that was red, swollen, and ruptured. The doctor prescribed me an eye ointment to apply and suggested that I remove some hair and apply artificial skin, as well as take anti-inflammatory medication. I have se...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, for common folliculitis that is red, swollen, and has ruptured, my treatment approach is to administer antibiotics and local application of povidone-iodine. Generally, it will improve in about a week. Wishing you good health.

Effective Treatments for Scalp Folliculitis and Hair Loss Solutions

Hello Doctor, I have folliculitis on my scalp, and it has become severe enough to cause hair loss, resulting in noticeable bald patches. I visited a doctor recently who advised me to apply medication and mentioned that it would take 2-3 months for my hair to recover. However, I f...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to make a definitive diagnosis. If it is causing significant distress, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Managing Itchy Folliculitis: Effective Treatments and Remedies

Hello, doctor. Although I have already visited the clinic, I am still very troubled by the folliculitis that has persisted for two months. It has reached the point where I need to take oral antibiotics, as I have both papules and pustules. Initially, I was prescribed tetracycline...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
The treatment for Malassezia folliculitis primarily involves oral medications. If itching persists, a short-term course of oral antihistamines may be considered.