Folliculitis is a skin condition that causes hair follicles, which are skin components providing space for hair to grow, to become inflamed. As the malady progresses, stricken subjects experience a variety of symptoms anywhere along the skin where discernible hair growth occurs. If left unchecked, the ailment can be aesthetically embarrassing and potentially produce significant, possibly permanent scarring.
There are two major types of ailment, superficial and deep. The superficial manifestations typically involve the upper portion of the follicle near the skin and, in most instances, produce less serious symptoms. However, the deep differentiation often occurs further down in the skin and can precipitate more significant problems.
Symptoms of the disease vary depending upon which form the afflicted individual possesses. That said, certain common manifestations include itching, burning, swelling, the presence of skin bumps or masses, an accumulation of pimple-like growths and sores filled with pus.