Folliculitis

Folliculitis is inflammation around a hair follicle. It an look like small red bumps, pimples or pustules and may cause itching, tenderness, burning or irritation.

It can develop anywhere hair grows, but it is particularly common around the bikini area, underarms, legs, neck, face and scalp. 

Folliculitis can occur when hair follicles become irritated, blocked or infected.

Common triggers include:

• Shaving or waxing 
• Friction from tight clothing 
• Sweat and heat 
• Ingrown hairs 
• Bacteria or yeast 
• Certain skincare products 
• Skin conditions that affect the hair follicles  

You may notice:

• Small red bumps around the hair follicles 
• Pus-filled spots 
• Itching or stinging 
• Burning or tenderness 
• Red or inflamed skin 
• Crusting as spots heal 
• Ingrown hairs 
• Bumps that appear after shaving, waxing or sweating 

Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicle to progressively reduce hair growth over a course of treatments. 

As hair growth is reduced, many people find they do not need to shave as frequently. This means less frequent razor contact and less opportunity for shaving-related irritation and ingrown hairs.

It can be particularly appealing if you regularly experience follicle irritation in areas such as the bikini area, underarms, legs, face or neck. 

Laser hair removal is a progressive treatment, so results are not instant. A consistent course of treatments is required, and results vary depending on factors such as hair colour, hair thickness, skin tone and individual hair-growth cycles. 

Laser hair removal is not a treatment for an active infection, and it may not be suitable if the skin is currently inflamed or broken. A consultation can help determine whether treatment is appropriate for you.