Say Goodbye to Scalp Folliculitis: Causes, Types & Treatment  Options

Do you also get irritated with itchy bumps on your scalp that don’t go away? You might be dealing with scalp folliculitis. This common condition occurs when hair follicles get inflamed or infected. But don’t worry, there are several ways to treat it and prevent it from coming back. So, let’s dive deeper and understand scalp folliculitis, from its types and causes to the best treatment available.

Types of Scalp Folliculitis

Scalp folliculitis can look different depending on what's causing it. Some forms are mild and go away quickly, while others can be persistent and painful. Here is a closer look at the common types of scalp folliculitis:

Bacterial Folliculitis

This is the most common form of folliculitis and is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. It shows up as red, itchy bumps or white-headed pimples around hair follicles. If you scratch, it can worsen or even spread.

Hot Tub Rash

Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A type of gram-negative bacteria causes it. This type of folliculitis often appears after a soak in a poorly chlorinated hot tub. You might see clusters of red, itchy bumps, especially in areas covered by swimwear. Though it usually clears up in a few days, it's still uncomfortable while it lasts.

Razor Bumps

This type is also known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, and it happens when shaved or closely trimmed hairs curl back into the skin. It causes inflammation and tiny bumps, especially in people with coarse or curly hair. Frequent shaving can make it worse.

Pityrosporum Folliculitis

This type is triggered by a yeast called Malassezia, which thrives in oily environments. It often looks like acne, small red or skin-coloured bumps, but can be intensely itchy. It’s common on the scalp, chest, and upper back.

Gram-Negative Folliculitis

This one usually appears after prolonged antibiotic use, especially for acne. Over time, antibiotic-resistant bacteria develop, leading to breakouts that look similar to acne but may need prescription treatments to clear up.

Eosinophilic Folliculitis

Typically seen in people with compromised immune systems, this causes itchy, red bumps or pustules that may crust over. It tends to recur and can be especially uncomfortable at night.

Furuncles and Carbuncles

These are deeper infections of the hair follicle. Furuncles (boils) involve a single follicle, while carbuncles affect a cluster. They are painful, swollen, and filled with pus. Medical drainage is sometimes needed to heal them properly.

Sycosis Barbae

Although it commonly affects the beard area, it can extend to the scalp in some cases. It’s a chronic bacterial infection that leads to painful pustules and scarring if left untreated. Medical care is needed for managing this condition.

Causes of Scalp Folliculitis

Do you find yourself asking this question about what causes those irritating bumps on your scalp? Here are the most common causes of scalp folliculitis:

• Poor scalp hygiene
• Excessive sweating
• Wearing tight hats or helmets
• Frequent shaving or hair removal
• Sharing combs, brushes, or towels
• Long-term use of antibiotics or steroids
• Fungal or bacterial infections
• Weakened immune system

Scalp Folliculitis Treatment

Dealing with scalp folliculitis can be frustrating, especially when it keeps coming back or refuses to clear with basic shampoos and home remedies. In more persistent cases, advanced treatments can offer lasting relief and even support healthy hair regrowth.

PRP Hair treatment

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is a natural approach using your body’s healing powers. A small amount of blood is drawn, processed to concentrate the growth factors, and then injected back into the scalp. This helps reduce inflammation around hair follicles, strengthens them from the root, and encourages new hair growth.

It’s often recommended when scalp folliculitis leads to hair thinning or patchy hair loss. Over time, many people notice their scalp feels calmer and their hair starts to look fuller and healthier.

GFC Hair treatment

GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate) treatment is another promising option for those struggling with inflamed or acne-prone scalps. It works by extracting growth factors from your blood and reintroducing them into the scalp to repair and restore damaged follicles.

The procedure is quick, targeted, and minimally invasive, making it suitable for people with chronic folliculitis or sensitive skin.  Since the treatment costs can differ based on the clinic and location, it’s a good idea to check pricing beforehand.

Before and After Effects of Hair Treatment

Here’s a quick comparison of the common scalp and hair conditions before treatment and the improvements you can expect after undergoing GFC or PRP hair therapy.

Don’t Let Scalp Issues Control You

Scalp folliculitis can be persistent and uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to last forever. By pinpointing the cause and choosing effective treatments like PRPc or GFC, you can regain a healthy scalp and confidence.Book your appointment at Bodycraft  today and leave the rest to our experts.

FAQ's Around Scalp Folliculitis

1. Is The Folliculitis Infection Contagious?

Most scalp folliculitis is non-contagious. However, folliculitis caused due to an infectious disease can spread from one individual to another via skin contact, and shared personal things like razors and hot tubs. 

2. Can scalp folliculitis cause hair loss?

A mild type of folliculitis may heal, without any scarring or hair loss, in a few days by taking proper care. However, repeat infections may need you to visit a trichologist for prescription medicines. If left untreated, such scalp infections can cause heavy hair loss and scarring. Advanced clinical treatment such as GFC hair loss treatment and QR678 hair regrowth treatment at Bodycraft Clinic can help  restore lost hair and improve the quality. 

3. How to get rid of folliculitis on your scalp?

Your doctor may suggest antibiotic, topical, and oral solutions for folliculitis. One can also use topical creams and shampoos to fight the spread of fungal infections. For a mild scalp folliculitis infection, a healthcare specialist can suggest using a steroid cream to stop the itching. People with HIV or AIDS can be put on antiretroviral therapy. In severe cases, patients may be advised to go for a minor surgery or a laser hair removal treatment, especially for treating pseudofolliculitis barbae. 

4. Is boils a type of folliculitis?

Yes, boils are a type of hair folliculitis. It indicates inflamed hair follicles due to injury, infection, or common scalp irritations. Most boils that feel tender and swollen and which are formed around the hair follicles, can be considered scalp folliculitis. A cluster of small-sized boils on the scalp is known as carbuncles. 

5. Is scalp folliculitis curable? 

Most scalp folliculitis can be cured or limited by taking greater care of your scalp and hair. You may need to have medical intervention for a medium to severe case of folliculitis. Without treatment, there is a risk of progression and added complications. Our treatment plans can noticeably improve your scalp quality, help reduce hair loss due to scalp folliculitis condition and boost healthy hair growth.