Conditions › Folliculitis & pseudo-folliculitis
Folliculitis & Pseudofolliculitis – Consultant Diagnosis & Treatment in London
Folliculitis is inflammation or infection of the hair follicles, often presenting as small red bumps or pustules. Pseudo-folliculitis, commonly known as “razor bumps”, occurs when hairs curl back into the skin, causing irritation and ingrown hairs. Both conditions may be uncomfortable, recurrent, and affect appearance. At Skinhorizon, we provide safe, consultant-led treatments tailored to individual skin needs.
Call Us Book ConsultationWhat is folliculitis?
Folliculitis occurs when hair follicles become inflamed due to bacterial or fungal infection, irritation, or blockage. It appears as small, red, acne-like bumps that may be itchy, sore, or contain pus. Folliculitis can affect any part of the body where hair grows, including the scalp, chest, back, thighs, and beard area.
What is pseudo-folliculitis?
Pseudo-folliculitis, often called razor bumps, is caused by hairs curling back into the skin after shaving or hair removal. This triggers inflammation and ingrown hairs, commonly in the beard area for men and the bikini line for women. It is not an infection but can mimic folliculitis and cause significant discomfort.
Causes and risk factors
- Folliculitis: Bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus), fungal, viral, or irritation from sweat and friction.
- Pseudo-folliculitis: Shaving against the grain, curly/coarse hair, tight clothing, or waxing.
Folliculitis & Pseudofolliculitis Symptoms
Both conditions typically present with:
- Clusters of red, itchy, or sore bumps.
- Pus-filled lesions that may crust.
- Skin tenderness, irritation, or burning.
- In pseudo-folliculitis, visible ingrown hairs inside the bumps.
Folliculitis & Pseudofolliculitis Diagnosis
A dermatologist usually diagnoses folliculitis and pseudo-folliculitis clinically by examining the skin. In recurrent or severe cases, swabs or scrapings may be taken to identify bacteria, fungi, or other causes.
Expert Treatment for Folliculitis & Ingrown Hairs in Central London
Book a consultation in Maida Vale for consultant-led care of inflamed or infected hair follicles. Treatment options include antibiotics, lasers, and skincare plans.
Call Us Book ConsultationFolliculitis & Pseudofolliculitis Treatment and management
- Mild folliculitis: Antiseptic washes, topical antibiotics, or antifungal creams.
- Severe/recurrent folliculitis: Oral antibiotics or antifungals.
- Pseudo-folliculitis: Avoid shaving for a period, change shaving technique, use soothing creams, or switch to alternative hair removal methods.
- Laser hair removal: An effective long-term solution for recurrent pseudo-folliculitis, reducing hair density and ingrown hairs.
Why choose Skinhorizon?
- Consultant dermatologist-led diagnosis and treatment.
- Evidence-based therapies for both infectious and mechanical causes.
- Advanced laser hair removal for resistant pseudo-folliculitis.
- Personalised skin care and prevention strategies.
Your first visit — what to expect
- Assessment: Review of symptoms, shaving habits, and medical history.
- Examination: Clinical assessment of affected areas.
- Diagnosis: Differentiating folliculitis from pseudo-folliculitis.
- Treatment plan: Prescription medication or tailored skincare advice.
- Follow-up: Monitoring progress and offering preventive solutions such as laser therapy if required.
Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 21 August 2025
Get expert help with folliculitis and ingrown hairs – book a consultation with our dermatology team today.
Call Us Book ConsultationFolliculitis & Pseudo-folliculitis FAQs
What is the difference between folliculitis and pseudo-folliculitis?
Folliculitis is inflammation or infection of the hair follicle, while pseudo-folliculitis is irritation from ingrown hairs, usually caused by shaving.
Is folliculitis contagious?
Bacterial or fungal folliculitis can be contagious through direct contact or sharing towels, but pseudo-folliculitis is not contagious as it is a mechanical irritation.
Can folliculitis or razor bumps go away on their own?
Mild cases may resolve without treatment, but persistent or severe symptoms usually require medical attention for effective management.
What is the best way to prevent pseudo-folliculitis?
Shave in the direction of hair growth, avoid very close shaving, use clean blades, or switch to laser hair removal for long-term prevention.
Can laser hair removal cure folliculitis?
Laser hair removal does not treat infectious folliculitis but is highly effective in preventing pseudo-folliculitis caused by ingrown hairs.
When should I see a dermatologist?
If symptoms persist, worsen, or frequently recur, professional assessment is recommended to rule out infection and provide safe, effective treatment.
