Home Remedies and Herbs for Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a skin condition where the hair follicles become infected. It’s a common ailment and not normally dangerous however, can be sore and itchy not to mention embarrassing in appearance. Untreated, folliculitis can develop into a serious infection that can result in permanent hair loss in the infected area as well as scarring. ^{1 2}

Certain forms of folliculitis are known as barber’s itch, hot tub rash and razor bumps. Folliculitis is broken into severities; superficial and deep. This depends on the extent of infection and how far the infection extends from the hair root and into deeper dermis layers. ¹

What Causes Folliculitis?

Folliculitis causes include from damage or blockage of the hair follicle. It then allows exposure to a bacteria known as Staphylococcus which infects the hair follicle at its root. It can also be caused by another bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa which results from improper treatment of chlorine or bromine in water. ⁵

• Skin friction from shaving or rubbing
• Cuts and skin abrasions
• Prolonged heat, sweat and lack of skin air breathing
• Skin coverings like bandages and tape
• Existing skin conditions like acne or dermatitis

Folliculitis Symptoms

• Swollen and burning skin
• General rash that spreads
• Puss filled pimples at the hair roots
• Crusting of infected areas
• Hair loss

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Folliculitis

• Turmeric - Turmeric is well known for containing the anti-inflammatory compound curcumin. It is both antibacterial as well as an antioxidant and is one of the most effective folliculitis scalp treatments. Turmeric can be mixed with water and consumed twice daily for best results or can be made into a paste for topical application to the infected area.
• Vinegar - Both white and apple cider vinegar contain antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties. As a natural folliculitis scalp remedy, vinegar is best blended with two parts water to one part vinegar and placed on the infected hair and skin spot. The acetic acid in vinegar reduces inflammation and controls infection.
• Thyme Oil - Thyme oil is made from the natural herb plant, thyme. It has natural antibacterial elements that attacks the folliculitis scalp infection. Thyme oil is best applied in small amounts directly to the infected skin surface and gently massaged in. This is repeated daily until the condition clears.
• Garlic - Garlic contains allicin, a sulphur compound with strong antibacterial benefits. Garlic also is high in vitamin C which contributes to building the immune system and fighting infection. As a folliculitis natural cure, garlic can be eaten raw or crushed and applied to the skin. It may create a burning feel with first contact.
• Tea Tree Oil - This is a common, natural facial cleanser that works well in treating folliculitis. Tea tree oil has antibacterial qualities and works best as a topical agent being rubbed into the skin.
• Neem Leaves - Neem leaves come from the evergreen tree, Azadirachta indica. Oil is extracted from the leaves as a topical medicine. Applying neem leaf oil onto the infected skin is one of the best folliculitis natural remedies. Two or three applications every day are necessary to clear up the condition.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/folliculitis/basics/definition/con-20025909
2. http://umm.edu/health/medical/ency/articles/folliculitis
3. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1070456-treatment
4. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000823.htm
5. http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/general-health-articles/folliculitis-home-remedies