Diseases and Conditions

Folliculitis

Risk factors

Anyone can develop folliculitis. But certain factors make you more susceptible to the condition, including:

  • Having a medical condition that reduces your resistance to infection, such as diabetes, chronic leukemia and HIV/AIDS
  • Having acne or dermatitis
  • Taking some medications, such as steroid creams or long-term antibiotic therapy for acne
  • Being a male with curly hair who shaves
  • Regularly wearing clothing that traps heat and sweat, such as rubber gloves or high boots
  • Soaking in a hot tub that's not maintained well
  • Causing damage to hair follicles by shaving, waxing or wearing tight clothing