When Acne Isn’t Just Acne: Could It Be Folliculitis?

**By Dr. Rizwan – Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur**

**Pimples that don’t go away?**

If you're treating your “acne” but it still looks angry, itchy, or comes back quickly—hold on. It might not be acne at all. One of the most common lookalikes is **folliculitis**.

Let’s break it down in simple words.

**What is Folliculitis?**

Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles. It can look exactly like acne: small red or pus-filled bumps, sometimes itchy or painful. But while acne usually forms due to clogged pores and oil, **folliculitis is often caused by bacteria, fungi, or friction.**

You can get it on your face, scalp, chest, back, thighs, or even buttocks.

 **Folliculitis vs. Acne – How to Tell the Difference**

| Feature | Acne | Folliculitis |

|--------------------------|----------------------------------|------------------------------------|

| Cause | Oil, dead skin, bacteria | Infection or irritation of hair follicles |

| Appearance | Blackheads, whiteheads, cysts | Small red or pus-filled bumps around hair |

| Feeling | Painful or tender | Itchy, burning or sore |

| Common Triggers | Hormones, oily skin | Shaving, sweating, tight clothes |

| Response to Acne Creams | Usually improves | May get worse or no response |

*Common Triggers of Folliculitis*

- **Shaving or waxing** too often

- **Wearing tight clothes** or sweaty gym wear

- **Hot, humid weather**

- **Dirty razors or towels**

- **Using steroid creams** wrongly on the face

 **How We Treat It at the Clinic**

At *Dr. Rizwan’s Clinic*, we start with proper diagnosis. Because treating folliculitis like acne doesn’t work—and sometimes makes it worse.

Depending on the type (bacterial, fungal, or irritant), we may recommend:

- **Topical or oral antibiotics or antifungals**

- **Antibacterial cleansers**

- **Laser hair reduction** for chronic cases

- **Guided skincare routine** to avoid recurrence

 **When to Visit a Dermatologist**

If your “acne”:

- Itches or burns more than usual

- Appears mostly around hair follicles

- Gets worse with typical acne treatments

- Is spreading or recurring again and again…

…it’s time to book a consultation.

**Final Word:**

Not every bump is acne. Folliculitis is common, but often misdiagnosed and mistreated. Don’t rely on guesswork or over-the-counter creams. Let a skin expert help.

**Need help?**

Walk in or book an appointment at *Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic and Laser Clinic*, Shahjahanpur. We'll help you figure it out, the right way.