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Folliculitis in Children: Care Instructions

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Anatomy of the skin, including a hair follicle

Overview

Folliculitis (say "fuh-LIK-yuh-LY-tus") is an inflammation of the hair follicles. Each hair on your body grows out of a tiny pouch called a follicle. Your child can have folliculitis on any part of their body that has hair.

Folliculitis is usually caused by bacteria. It also can be caused by other things, such as an ingrown hair. Your child can also get folliculitis if they have damaged hair follicles. Shaving or wearing clothes that rub the skin can irritate the follicles. This makes them more likely to become infected.

Symptoms include pimple-like bumps. They may be reddish and have pus in them. The bumps can be tender and may itch or burn. Sometimes the condition can lead to more serious skin infections.

Treatment depends on what's causing it. A mild case will usually go away on its own. If it doesn't, your child's doctor can treat it with an antibiotic cream or ointment. Antibiotics you take as pills can treat infections deeper in the skin. If the condition is caused by ingrown hairs from shaving, your child could try not shaving or change how they are shaving.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

  • To help with itching or pain, put a warm, moist cloth (like a clean washcloth) on the area for 5 to 10 minutes, 3 to 6 times a day.
  • Do not let your child share towels or washcloths.
  • Have your child wear loose clothing, especially if it's hot or humid outside. Have them change their clothes if they get sweaty.
  • Use the medicine exactly as prescribed. If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child has signs that their infection is getting worse, such as:
    • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
    • Red streaks leading from the area.
    • Pus draining from the area.
    • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child does not get better as expected.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter N152 in the search box to learn more about "Folliculitis in Children: Care Instructions".

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.