Overview: Folliculitis is a skin condition caused by an inflammation of one or more hair follicles in a limited area. It typically occurs in areas of irritation, such as sites of shaving, skin friction, or rubbing from clothes. In most cases of folliculitis, the inflamed follicles are infected with bacteria, especially with Staphylococcus organisms, that normally live on the skin.
The most common factors that contribute to the development of folliculitis include:
- Irritation from shaving
- Friction from tight clothing
- A pre-existing skin condition, such as eczema, acne, or another dermatitis (inflammation of the skin)
- Injuries to the skin, such as abrasions
- Extended contact from plastic bandages or adhesive tape
