Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an infection at the site of a hair follicle. Signs and symptoms include; a slight red rash to small pustules at each hair follicle. A pustule is a small pimple like elevation on the skin that contains pus.

Folliculitis is usually caused from massage of hairy areas, waxing and chafing.

Management

• If the symptoms are mild wash the area with antibacterial solution - the rash should settle quickly.
• If infection is moderate to severe - that is, each hair follicle is very red, inflamed and/or has pustules present then refer the athlete to a doctor.
• Good personal hygiene is vital to prevent transferring the infection to other athletes. The area can be covered with a non-adhesive dressing when training or competing.
• Do not massage or rub the area until infection has settled.