The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus is usually the culprit, which triggers a hair root infection. This pathogen is actually part of the normal, healthy skin flora. However, the bacterium produces exotoxins. These toxins enter the follicles and cause inflammation. However, other bacteria and fungi can also cause folliculitis.
Pathogens that have penetrated the follicle funnel trigger inflammation of the hair roots. There are raised vesicles or nodules, which are usually filled with yellowish-green pus and pierced by a hair in the middle. These areas are usually itchy, but they can also be sensitive to pain.
In areas of the body that do not have hair follicles, such as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, there are no hair root infections. Predilection sites (preferred body regions) are primarily the beard area, the buttocks, chest hair, thighs and the head.
Sweating promotes the development of folliculitis, since increased sweating can also lead to an increase in bacteria and their toxins. Diabetes mellitus or a weakened immune system promote the occurrence of hair root infections.
The hair root inflammation is a superficial inflammation of the hair follicle. If this spreads deeper, it becomes a boil. This creates a larger, up to walnut-sized knot that has a pus collection in the middle. The area is red and warm.
The treatment depends on the degree of inflammation of the hair root. Antibiotic ointments are often given by a doctor. In the case of massive inflammation, however, the internal application of a suitable antibiotic can also be the method of choice.
Research into causes comes first. In the case of diabetics, a visit to the doctor should not be missed to determine whether the patient is also correctly medicated. In addition, the nutrition of the person concerned must be questioned.