Small itchy or tender bumps around hair follicles after shaving, sweating or a hot tub are often folliculitis. Share photos with a licensed clinician to review the likely cause and discuss treatment. Insurance or $50 self-pay.
A painful, swelling lump, spreading redness, red streaks or fever may be a boil or cellulitis and needs in-person care.
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Folliculitis is inflammation of hair follicles that appears as small red bumps or pustules, often on the beard area, scalp, chest, back, buttocks or legs. Common causes include bacteria, shaving and friction, yeast, and hot-tub exposure. Mild cases often settle with gentle cleansing, avoiding tight clothing and changing shaving habits; topical antibacterial or antifungal treatment may be used depending on the likely cause. Painful deeper lumps, spreading redness or fever suggest a boil or cellulitis that needs in-person assessment.