How can folliculitis at the armpits be treated? (photo)

Doctor's Answer

Folliculitis refers to inflammation of the hair follicles [1]. It presents with painful red bumps centred around the hair follicles.

From the photo, there does not appear to be any inflammation; often you will feel swelling and see redness. Hence, it is likely that you do NOT have folliculitis.

It is more likely that you have prominent follicular openings. It is a benign condition for which no good treatment is yet to exist.

Here is what you can do; avoid irritating the area such as:

  • scrubbing,
  • plucking hairs,
  • waxing,
  • rough shaving,
  • excessive use of antiperspirants or deodorants,
  • etc.

Instead, do practice moisturising regularly as it may help minimise the prominence of the condition.

Reference:

1. Folliculitis - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/folliculitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20361634. Published 2018. Accessed December 6, 2019.

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