Causes of Female Vulvar Folliculitis

Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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The occurrence of vulvar folliculitis in women has many causes. The main reason might be related to wearing overly tight underwear and skinny jeans, as well as garments made from non-breathable materials. It could also be related to hot weather conditions where women's skin tends to be more moist and prone to sweating. Another possible cause is poor genital hygiene, which is a likely factor. Additionally, it could be associated with sexual partners, hence it is necessary to identify the specific causes and investigate them one by one.

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Written by Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Symptoms of vulvar folliculitis

The symptoms of vulvar folliculitis generally manifest as redness, swelling, heat, and pain. When folliculitis occurs in the vulvar area, it can cause redness and swelling of the affected follicles, sometimes with a burning sensation, as well as pain in the area. If the inflammation is pronounced, the redness and swelling of the folliculitis can be severe, and pus formation may also occur. In such cases, it is necessary to puncture the pustules to drain the pus. The vulvar area has a rich supply of hair follicles and poor ventilation, making it susceptible to folliculitis. It is crucial to maintain good hygiene in the genital area.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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How to treat folliculitis in the buttocks area?

Folliculitis in the buttocks should first avoid continued exposure to damp environments, keeping the area dry, and applying topical medications such as Rifan and potassium permanganate solution. Apply these topically twice a day, in the morning and evening, along with oral anti-inflammatory and antibacterial medication. Topical application of traditional Chinese medicine plasters, such as those promoting tissue regrowth and pus discharge, can also be used to break open and heal the pus-filled abscesses formed after folliculitis. Alternatively, using Western medicine approaches, after the acute inflammation and redness subside and significant abscesses form, incision and drainage can be performed. Both of these methods are viable, but avoid incisions and surgical treatments during the acute phase.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What department should I visit for folliculitis?

Folliculitis is caused by overactive sebaceous glands, consuming spicy and stimulating food, or frequent sleep deprivation, leading to bacterial infection on the skin surface. This condition falls under the treatment category of dermatology, and one can register for treatment at the dermatology department of a formal hospital. Generally, oral and topical medications are commonly used and are largely effective in treating the condition. If an individual folliculitis lesion appears significantly with a white pus head, it can be disinfected with iodophor, then pricked with a needle to drain the pus and blood. If folliculitis appears on the scalp and results in significant swelling, surgical incision and drainage may be required. After recovery, it is important to maintain a proper diet and lifestyle habits to prevent recurrence of the condition.

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Written by Xia Min
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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What should not be eaten with folliculitis due to lung heat?

In clinical practice, dietary restrictions for folliculitis due to lung heat typically include avoiding or reducing the intake of spicy, greasy, and cold foods. The so-called spicy foods refer to hot pots, barbecues, and dry pots, especially those containing cumin, chili, and Sichuan pepper. These aromatic and spicy foods should not be consumed. What are cold foods? Examples include ice cream and popsicles, as these can transform dampness into heat, thus such cold foods should also be avoided. Greasy foods include rich oil-based soups or broths, which are also not suitable for consumption during folliculitis.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How to treat folliculitis scabs?

When scabbing occurs in folliculitis, it generally indicates that the follicle has almost completely healed, and no special treatment is necessary. However, some cases of folliculitis, especially severe ones, may still have underlying inflammation despite the surface being covered with a scab. In such cases, you can disinfect with iodine and then remove the scab to further clean out any pus or blood underneath. Generally speaking, folliculitis is relatively easy to treat with oral and topical anti-inflammatory medications. In severe cases, lancing or surgically opening the follicle to drain pus might be necessary. After recovery, it is important to regulate one's diet and lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and not stay up late.