Primary prevention
Preventive measures that may help decrease the frequency of folliculitis include:
Practicing good hygiene, including regular bathing with antibacterial soaps
Wearing loose-fitting clothing
Not sharing razors with others
Shaving with special care - electronic razors or shaving with the grain can reduce risk
Being careful not to introduce nicks or cuts while shaving
For people with recurrent folliculitis, laser hair removal or depilatories could be considered
Hair salons in which equipment is not regularly sterilised and is used on different customers should be avoided.
Folliculitis can be induced by administration of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. Data from one review have shown an association between preventive treatment with tetracyclines (doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline) and a significantly lower incidence of folliculitis in those treated with an EGFR inhibitor. Tetracyclines may be co-prescribed as a preventative measure with an EGFR inhibitor or started later at the onset of folliculitis. Most EGFR-associated folliculitis responds well to tetracycline therapy.[6]
Secondary prevention
Similar strategies should be employed to primary preventative measures. Eradication of MRSA colonisation may also be helpful.
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer