A. FOLLICULITIS is an inflammation and/or infection of the hair follicle. Although it can occur in any region of the body where there is hair, we often see it on upper legs, arms, and areas shaved or plucked. Folliculitis is caused by bacteria on the skin, so anything that increases their amounts will increase the likelihood of folliculitis (excess sweating, clothes that rub the area constantly, very tight clothing).
What people first notice is a small bump on their skin, often tender, with or without a hair follicle coming through it. Often there are many of them, each surrounding a hair. Sometimes the infection can build, the bump grows, crusts over or becomes very hard and tender.
As for treatments, it depends on the extent of the irritation.
Keep in mind, this is not something that is very dangerous. On the other hand, if you're not sure what that bump is, the best bet is to visit your family doc!
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