Can I Use Medicated Ointment for Folliculitis Recovery?

Can folliculitis be treated with a nurse's assistance?

Previously, I had folliculitis on my calves due to a bacterial infection, which resulted in the appearance of pimple-like lesions.
I consulted a doctor who prescribed oral medication but did not provide any topical treatment.
Now that I have finished the oral medication, the lesions have disappeared, but there are still red spots (similar to scars).
Can I apply a topical ointment like Mentholatum to help with the healing of the skin? Thank you.

Xiao Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/11

Dr. Yang Zhiya reply Dermatology

It is advisable to have a physician assess the current condition of your skin, as the small nurse is relatively oily.
If there is still an infection present, its use is not recommended.

Reply Date: 2012/05/11

More Info

When dealing with folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles often caused by bacterial infections, it's important to follow a proper treatment regimen to ensure complete recovery and minimize the risk of scarring. In your case, it seems that you have already undergone oral antibiotic treatment, which is a common approach for bacterial folliculitis. The fact that the pimples have disappeared but left behind red spots suggests that your skin is still in the healing process.

Using a medicated ointment like Mentholatum (commonly known as "小護士" in Mandarin) can be beneficial, but it's essential to understand its properties and how it interacts with your skin condition. Mentholatum ointments typically contain ingredients that provide a soothing effect and may help with minor skin irritations. However, they are not specifically formulated to treat folliculitis or promote wound healing in the same way that other topical treatments might.

Here are some considerations regarding the use of medicated ointments for your situation:
1. Healing Properties: While ointments like Mentholatum can provide a soothing effect, they may not have the active ingredients necessary to specifically target the inflammation or promote healing of the skin post-folliculitis. If the ointment contains ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E, it may help soothe the skin and improve the appearance of red spots over time.

2. Avoiding Irritation: If you decide to use the ointment, monitor your skin for any signs of irritation or allergic reaction. Since your skin is already sensitive from the previous infection, introducing new products should be done cautiously.

3. Alternative Treatments: If you are looking for more effective options to help with the red spots left behind, consider consulting with a dermatologist. They may recommend topical treatments that contain ingredients like hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation, or silicone gel sheets that can help with scar healing. Additionally, products containing niacinamide or retinoids can promote skin regeneration and improve the appearance of post-inflammatory erythema (the red spots).

4. Sun Protection: It's crucial to protect healing skin from sun exposure, as UV rays can darken red spots and lead to more noticeable scarring. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on the affected area when exposed to sunlight.

5. Follow-Up Care: Since you have already completed your course of oral antibiotics, if you notice any new symptoms or if the red spots do not improve, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider. They can assess whether further treatment is necessary or if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, while using a soothing ointment like Mentholatum may provide some comfort, it may not be the most effective treatment for the red spots left from folliculitis. Consulting with a dermatologist for tailored advice and treatment options would be the best course of action to ensure optimal recovery and skin health.

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