Do you have to shave the surrounding hair if you have folliculitis?

Folliculitis does not necessarily require shaving the surrounding hair, but can be treated with medication and, if necessary, surgery. Folliculitis is an inflammatory skin disease in which the hair follicles are mainly involved, often manifesting as red papules centered on the hair follicles, accompanied by itching and pain. Mild cases of folliculitis usually resolve on their own, and there is no need to shave the surrounding hair. In severe cases, the surrounding hair may be shaved to facilitate topical medication. In the case of bacterial folliculitis, topical medications include mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid ointment, and other antibiotic creams. In severe cases, oral antibiotics such as erythromycin, clindamycin and cefuroxime can be used for treatment. For folliculitis caused by fungal infection, topical antifungal creams such as ketoconazole cream can be used. In severe cases, antifungal medications such as itraconazole can be taken orally. If the folliculitis develops into a larger boil or carbuncle, surgery may be required. All of the above medications should be used under the guidance of a medical professional to avoid adverse reactions.