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Why is the folliculitis in my buttocks and private areas getting worse even with medication?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am experiencing severe folliculitis in my private area, particularly between the buttocks, and it has now spread to various areas on my buttocks. Despite attempting multiple topical treatments and taking antibiotics like Keflex 500 mg, Fucibet, and Cephalexin 500 mg, I have not experienced any significant improvement. My condition seems to have worsened over the past three years. Please help.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern.

After reviewing the information and photos (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity), you might be dealing with a condition called folliculitis, which is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become infected or inflamed, leading to small red bumps or pustules on the skin. I understand that this can be quite distressing and can come back repeatedly.

I suggest you the following:

  1. Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear.

  2. Ensure that the affected areas have good airflow.

  3. Avoid activities that might cause friction or irritation.

  4. If your job involves long periods of sitting or traveling, try to take breaks and rest.

  5. Be gentle with the affected areas and avoid putting too much pressure on them.

  6. When grooming, do not trim the hair too short.

  7. You likely know which antibiotics work best for you.

  8. Maintain a well-balanced diet, and I suggest taking vitamin B complex tablets with zinc, as they may be beneficial.

  9. I suggest you try topical antibiotics like Mupirocin (T-Bact) or Benzoyl peroxide gel if they suit you. In severe cases, consult your doctor and take the medicines.

If the condition worsens, it is important to consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and further management.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I have already used Benzoyl peroxide, and the issue persists. Do you recommend visiting the emergency room for antibiotics, or should I try T-Bact and Vitamin B tablets first?

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I suggest you use T-Bact (Mupirocin) cream topically along with Vitamin B supplements that contain Zinc. Additionally, I suggest you take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever like Ibuprofen after eating, especially if there is pain and Clindamycin cream topically. For recurring areas, I suggest you may apply Retinoic acid cream at night, but avoid it when there is active inflammation or pus. Depending on how your skin responds, it is advisable to consult your doctor. If the issue continues to be a concern, laser hair removal in those areas might be another option worth considering.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Published At February 2, 2024
Reviewed AtFebruary 2, 2024

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