subject: Folliculitis - Types, Causes & Symptoms [print this page] Folliculitis a skin disease is an infection of the hair follicles caused by bacteria, causing infection and turning the follicles into small pus-filled pimples. Folliculitis can occur anywhere on the skin or scalp, severe cases causing permanent hair loss. However, Folliculitis whether mild or severe can be extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing and can make your life hell.
Folliculitis is usually caused by bacteria. It can also be caused by yeast and other type of fungus. Fungal Folliculitis is often seen in people who have an impaired immune system. Folliculitis can also be caused by tars, oils and greases that come into contact with the skin. Let us take a look at different forms of Folliculitis.
Types of Folliculitis
Staphylococcal Folliculitis: This is the most common type of Folliculitis caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. It develops when the hair follicle is infected by the bacteria, which enters through a cut or wound.
Pseudomonas Folliculitis (Hot tub Folliculitis): Hot tub folliculitis is caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa often found in new hot tubs. This type of folliculitis usually occurs after sitting in a hot tub that was not properly cleaned before use. The symptoms will be more severe around regions that were covered by wet clothing, such as bathing suits.
Gram Negative Folliculitis: This is caused by prolonged acne treatment with antibiotics. The antibiotics affect the balance of bacteria that are normally present in the nose causing the growth of more harmful bacteria to increase.
