Folliculitis and razor bumps

Overview

Hot tub folliculitis comes from bacteria in water.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Red bumps around hairs
• Bumps around hairs or after shaving
• Red spot, bump, or patch on the skin

Less common

• Itching

When to get medical care

Causes

Shaving, friction, bacteria.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: touch.
• Don't share towels, hats, combs, or bedding while it's being treated.

Who is more likely to get it

• Curly hair
• Shaving

Possible complications

• Boil or skin abscess

Diagnosis

A clinician can tell by looking.

Treatment

Care for skin.

Self-care

• Shave with the grain
• Use a sharp razor
• Use warm compresses

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Stay home until you've had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine and you're feeling better.
• For the next 5 days, wash hands often and wear a mask around others.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Curly hair: More razor bumps.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Clears.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I need a cream?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Folliculitis and razor bumps