Summer can be the best time of the year, enjoying time outside and playing in the water. But for those of you who are still shaving to prepare for bathing suit season, embarrassing red bumps can ruin your day (or week!)
Folliculitis is a common skin condition that can be both annoying and uncomfortable. It happens when hair follicles get infected, often causing red, swollen bumps that look like pimples. Sometimes, they can itch or hurt. There are many ways to treat folliculitis naturally, and one surprising method might be laser hair removal. Let’s explore some of these natural treatments and see how laser hair removal fits into the picture.
What is Folliculitis?
Before we dive into treatments, let’s understand what we’re dealing with. Folliculitis occurs when bacteria, such as Staphylococcus, or fungus enters the hair follicles and starts an infection. This can happen through minor skin injuries, friction from clothing, or even because you’ve been in a hot tub that wasn’t properly treated.
Home Remedies for Relief
Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected area can soothe irritation and promote healing. The warmth helps to reduce swelling and pain.
Oatmeal Baths: Oatmeal has natural soothing properties. Taking an oatmeal bath can calm itchy skin and reduce inflammation.
Coconut Oil: Known for its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil can help fight a skin infection while moisturizing the skin.
Tea Tree or Lavender Oil: A natural antiseptic, essential oils like these can be diluted and applied to the skin to help combat the infection.
Apple Cider Vinegar: With its antibacterial qualities, apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural toner to help disinfect the skin.
Remember, if you’re trying any new treatment, do a patch test first to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
How Can Laser Hair Removal Help?
Now, you might be wondering, “What does laser hair removal have to do with all this?” Well, it turns out that laser hair removal can be a game-changer for people who frequently suffer from folliculitis. Here’s why:
- Reduces Hair Growth: By reducing the amount of hair, there’s less chance of hair curling back into the skin and causing ingrown hairs, which can lead to folliculitis.
- Destroys Bacteria: The laser can kill bacteria around the hair follicle, reducing the risk of infection.
- Prevents Future Episodes: With fewer hairs, there’s less risk of follicles becoming inflamed or infected in the future.
It’s important to note that laser hair removal should be done by a professional, and a diode laser should be used to ensure the hair doesn’t return. It’s not an instant fix and usually requires several sessions to see significant results.
When to See a Doctor
While natural remedies can be effective for mild cases of folliculitis, sometimes you might need a functional doctor’s help, especially if the infection is severe or keeps coming back. A functional healthcare provider in Meridian can prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications if needed, but treating the root cause (literally) is always best.
Conclusion
Folliculitis can be a persistent problem, but with the right approach, it can be managed. Natural treatments can offer relief and even prevent future outbreaks. And for those looking for a more long-term solution, laser hair removal should be worth considering. Always consult with a trained functional healthcare provider before starting any new treatment to ensure it’s safe for you.
An experienced medical aesthetics provider can guide skin treatment options. Our licensed physician offers comprehensive aesthetics consultations and free discovery calls. Learn more about Natural Medical Aesthetics and the aesthetic services that we offer in Meridian / Boise!
