How to Treat Clogged Hair Follicles

Blocked hair follicles are tiny, painful lumps that grow beneath the skin. They can indicate a skin disorder known as hidradenitis suppurative (HS). You're more prone to get them in areas where you sweat heavily, such as Armpits, Breasts, Buttocks and Groin

Blocked hair follicles first appear as pimples. If they worsen, they can penetrate deeply into the skin and resemble cysts or boils. They may also burst, leaking pus or blood. They can create tunnels beneath your skin.

Once they begin to heal, you may develop thick scars. These scars can make movement difficult in areas such as your underarms or groin.

How To Treat Clogged Hair Follicles

Weight Loss

Your symptoms may worsen if you weigh more than is necessary. A small amount of weight loss is sufficient to make an impact.

According to studies, lowering merely 10% of your entire weight will help clean up your bumps. Your doctor can assist you in developing a weight-loss diet and activity plan.

Exercise

Staying active can improve your well-being and aid in weight loss.

However, factors like heat, humidity, and friction from clothing can trigger breakouts. Here are some tips for exercising wisely:

• Opt for indoor workouts in air-conditioned environments.
• Wear loose, moisture-wicking attire to prevent skin irritation.
• Choose low-intensity exercises that are less likely to cause excessive sweating, such as Pilates, swimming, tai chi, walking, water fitness, or yoga.
• Remember that sweat levels can vary, so it's essential to shower immediately after sweating and change into fresh, dry clothes.

Eat Healthy

There is no specific diet you may follow to avoid clogged hair follicles. However, a few clever decisions may help:

• Concentrate on healthy fats. Fish rich in omega-3s, such as salmon, herring, and sardines, can help reduce inflammation., Additionally, plant oils, nuts, and seeds can.
• Reduce your dairy consumption. Milk and cheese increase insulin levels, which can cause hormones to increase, contributing to blocked hair follicles.
• Reduce your sugar intake, which can lower your insulin levels. Also, reduce your consumption of red meat, as too much can cause additional irritation.
• Avoid brewing yeast. Brewer's yeast makes pizza, bread, and cakes rise. Avoiding these meals may alleviate your symptoms.
• Take care of your wheat. According to some studies, avoiding wheat-containing meals may help you feel better.
• Let go of the oil. Unhealthy fats, low-fiber meals, and processed foods can all trigger flare-ups.

According to some studies, vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, copper, and vitamin B3 can help clear blocked hair follicles. Zinc may also be effective, though study is underway. Consult your doctor before changing your diet.

Quit Smoking

If you have blocked hair follicles, smoking can aggravate your symptoms.

Quitting smoking reduces the likelihood and severity of flare-ups. Discuss with your doctor various methods to quit, such as:

• Medications like nicotine gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, antidepressants, or drugs that hinder nicotine's effects on the brain.
• Counseling, either in-person or online.
• Utilizing apps for reminders and support.
• Joining support groups.
• Quitting abruptly without gradual reduction.

Stop Shaving

Using a razor on skin with blocked hair follicles can increase redness, pain, and swelling.

Similarly, waxing may irritate. If hair removal is necessary, consult your doctor about alternative options such as:

• Depilatory creams
• Threading
• Laser hair removal

Wear Loose Clothing

When garments rub against your skin, it can lead to irritation and inflammation. Tight clothing increases pressure on the skin and disrupts blood flow necessary for healing. Fabrics that trap sweat can exacerbate blockages and flare-ups.

Opt for clothing that allows your skin to breathe and prevents irritation, especially focusing on:

• Underwear
• Waistbands
• Clothing with openings around the legs or arms that may irritate sensitive areas like the armpits or groin.

Keep Yourself Cool

Heat leads to sweating, which can block hair follicles and exacerbate the condition.

To maintain a lower body temperature, ensure hydration by drinking ample water and trying to stay indoors whenever possible.

Maintain Cleanliness

Shower every day using mild soap and warm water to eliminate bacteria and fungi from your skin before they lead to folliculitis.

Also, shower after strenuous activities or when you get excessively dirty. After bathing, apply a light layer of moisturizer to safeguard your skin.

Handle Stress

When you're feeling stressed, your symptoms could worsen because stress activates your body's inflammation response, which can slow down healing.

To reduce stress, consider these steps: ensure you get sufficient sleep, decrease your caffeine intake, practice meditation, enjoy soothing music, connect with friends or a support group, write in a journal to express emotions, engage in activities you like, and seek guidance from a counsellor if needed. These activities help alleviate stress and lessen the severity of your symptoms.

Using Warm Compress

Use a warm compress on the affected region three to four times each day. A warm compress helps release blockages from hair follicles and opens your pores. Use one for 15-20 minutes at one time. To maintain the opening of your pores and let blockages dissolve on their own, repeat this treatment three or four times daily.

A warm compress can be purchased from a variety of stores or made at home. A washcloth dipped in warm water can be used as well, but it might only remain warm for a short time. To avoid burning your skin, do not use a heated compress for longer than 20 minutes.

Apple Cider Vinegar Treatment

Use a combination of apple cider vinegar to wash your hair. Folliculitis may also damage your scalp. If you have blocked hair follicles on your scalp, many washing treatments will help remove them. Apple cider vinegar helps open clogged follicles by naturally eliminating clumps and oil or dead skin residue.

Combine one part vinegar and one part water. After you've shampooed your hair, apply the mixture. Rinse away all the shampoo before using the vinegar. Give your scalp a few minutes of massage after applying the combination. Then, thoroughly rinse it with water. Do not apply conditioner.

Consult A Dermatologist

If the condition persists for more than a few days, see a dermatologist. Inflamed hair follicles do not usually respond well to home therapies. If you've attempted self-treatment for a few days without improvement, arrange a consultation with a dermatologist for expert guidance.

Depending on the cause of your inflamed hair follicles, your dermatologist may recommend a variety of therapies. For instance, they can advise using an antibiotic cream or an oral medication if the infection is bacterial. If the infection has caused any cysts or abscesses, the dermatologist would most likely drain them for you. Consult your dermatologist about preventive measures to avoid reoccurring the issue.

Strengthen Your Immune System

Folliculitis is primarily caused by bacterial or fungal infections, so increasing your immune system may help prevent it. This allows your body to fight off infections before they occur.

Ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep each night, as fatigue can weaken your immune system. Stay hydrated by drinking ample water and incorporating additional fruits and vegetables into your meals. Refrain from consuming processed and sugary foods.

Use Clean Pools

Only use well-maintained pools and hot tubs. People frequently acquire the bacteria that cause hair follicle problems from filthy pools. If you feel the pool is dirty, avoid bathing. Keep your pool or hot tub chlorinated to prevent microbial growth.

The water shouldn't be cloudy. Before taking a bath, be sure you can see all the way to the bottom of the pool. If foam persists on the water's surface in a hot tub even after the jets are turned off, it suggests inadequate water filtration. If you feel the water is filthy, shower immediately after swimming.

Conclusion

In summary, treating clogged hair follicles involves different ways to help your skin improve. This includes changing some habits, like eating healthier and getting more sleep.

It's also important to keep your skin clean and avoid things like stress and smoking. If home treatments don't work, it's a good idea to see a skin doctor. And remember, keeping your body strong and avoiding dirty pools can also help your skin stay healthy.