Table of Contents
Folliculitis Remedies
INTRODUCTION:
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that is usually caused by bacteria, especially Staphylococcus bacteria. Folliculitis commonly looks like red pimples with a hair in the center of each one. These pimples may have pus in them and they often itch or burn. Besides bacteria, the condition can also be caused by another type of fungus or yeast. Folliculitis often develops when someone damages their hair follicles. Shaving or wearing tight clothes that rub the skin can cause irritation to the follicles. Sweat, body oils and makeup can also irritate the follicles.
DISCLAIMER
Our readers offer information and opinions on Earth Clinic, not as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.
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ACV AND WHITE VINEGAR
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[YEA] 12/01/2010: Kris from Henderson, Nevada: "I had folliculitis on my shin for way over a year. I was on antibiotics, steroid creams and every single OTC cream, ointment, everything. I spent hundreds in doctor visits and self-medicating. The last call was a biopsy recommended by the doc. I went into Earth clinic and found the vinegar cure posted by many. I used white vinegar, in a solution of 1 tablespoon per 2 cups water. I mixed in a jar and I heated it until warm before using. Then I sat with a towel under my leg and poured the warm vinegar solution on the cotton balls. As it cooled, I poured more solution on. I sat with it on my leg for about 20 mins. At least 3 times a day. If I wanted to get up, I would plastic wrap around my leg, to keep the wet cotton on my leg, and tape it around. At night, I would make a plastic wrap around my leg, and leave the solution on all night. By the second day, my leg was healed! I continue to use the compress at least twice a day and sleep with it on at night. I have been clear since the second day, but am making sure!"
Replies01/11/2011: Braven from Baltimore, Maryland replies: "I have finally found the cure for my scalp folliculitus. It has been 15 years since I first started showing symptoms of this terrible problem. I have been using antibiotics (Ceftin & Clindamycin) which would only give me temporary relief. I finally stumbled onto a cause of chronic scalp folliculitus. It was Low Iron Anemia. I checked the symptoms of Low-Iron Anemia and about 4 other symptoms affected me.I began using Iron supplements after I finished an antibiotic treatment of (oral)ceftin and (topical)Clindamycin in Clobestol. I wanted my scalp clear when I started the Iron supplements. I am happy to report for the first time in 15 years I am free of this problem. Please check your Iron levels you may be anemic and not even kno like myself. I thank God for finding this out. I only hope that someone reading this doesn't have to wait 15 years like me."
05/23/2011: Aya from Seattle, Washington King replies: "Ty re: anemia and scalp also the vinergar. anyone use cocconut oil with lemon and rosemary oil for scalp? white sugar to exfoliate. A"
11/04/2011: Karlene from London, Uk replies: "Hello I have had folliculitus for a number of years unknowingly (occassional flare-ups) but came on aggressively in my scalp this year and my doctor treated me with antibiotics flucanozole(2 courses) but it came right back and my hair was falling out. The antibiotics worked but only for awhile, I realised that it must be a fungal and not bacterial infection and made the connection with an overgrowth of yeast in my body so out of desperation I tried Oil of Oregano (3-4 times a day... I swear by this now) as it's a natural antibiotic and your body does not get accustomed to it like prescribed antibiotics. I can say that after two weeks, the bumps are gone on my scalp and my hair is not falling out anymore. You should take a pro-biotic with it though and I am on a yeast free diet as well as low GI sugar diet for awhile.Good luck!"
12/11/2011: Ace from Vancouver, Bc replies: "How did you use the oil of oregano? Do you apply the whole thing on your scalp and then wash it? If not, please provide specific instructions of what you did, as I wanted to try it. I heard it is very strong - can you use it as a shampoo?"
[YEA] 12/17/2011: Baden from Brooklyn, Ny replies: "Make it simple. I have suffered a lot from folliculitis for 3, 4 months at the pubic hair. No antibiotic cream nor doctors could cure it until I read this article. I used straight apple vinegar applying once (sometimes twice a day). In a week, the miracle happened. It was gone. Thank you so much."
02/06/2012: Maryherb from Visalia, Ca, United States replies: "I FOUND A CURE!!! I tried everything! Apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, change in diet, herbs, antibiotics, anti fungal, creams, harsh face washes!!! EVERYTHING!!! I have been cured for 4 months! I only came back to this site so I can tell anyone who has tried everything and want to give up. FIND A CHINESE HERBALIST!!!! Within two weeks all the bumps were gone!!!"
02/12/2012: Edon from Los Angeles, Ca replies: "Maryherb and others, Does anyone know if its best to use oil of oregano on the scalp or to ingest it? OR is it suitable to do both? Suffering from nasty follicultis and dermatitist (that's what I've been told) on the scalp and trying to cure it naturally. Oil seems to be the best method. You have mentioned a chinese therapist. Can you be more specific in what they offered you or what they did, please?"
02/17/2012: Jolee from Los Angeles, Ca, Usa replies: "I too am very curious about the Chinese herbalist and am also in LA. I started having break outs of folliculitis three months ago and have tried several things. Antibiotics relieved temporarily. My dermatologist also gave me benzefoam which helped my back and arms greatly, but she said not to use on your face. I also found that good ol' fashion Vicks seems to help keep things at bay (of course it is less offensive at night). I have tried oregano oil (pills) and found the vascular reaction started causing tiny blood vessels to pop. Since I previously had and still have a fungal infection in one of my toe nails, I do think the fungal yeast thing may be a big contributor. I also found wine (more yeast) made it much worse. Drinking lots of water and probiotics also seemed to help."
02/24/2012: T from Uk replies: "Hello... Have just found out that I have suspected folliculitis 3 days ago. Am on antibiotics from the doc but after reading through your comments I am skeptical if they will work as 99% of you here are saying the only work short term if at all. So I have just downed a glass of turmeric powder sent my misses up the shop for bleach and white vinegar and have just got of the phone to my local chinese herbalist while I was dabbing myself with tea tree oil (LOL). But I have pea size spots all over my head, neck, face, shoulders, back, chest, legs, genitals and now on my arms and feet. I am in horrendous pain and am desperate for something to work. I will try everything here and keep you all updated on my progress FEELING AWFUL. 31 YEAR OLD MALE UK"
03/07/2012: Decafe Vamp from Rossendale, Lancashire, England replies: "I have anemia, when I'm on ferritin supplements the lumps and sores ease and the pain is reduced. Get your iron levels checked at drs. Take care. Decafe vamp!"
03/27/2012: Cc from Las Vegas, Nevada replies: "I have been dealing with the effects and symptoms of folliculitis for about 9 months. The dermatologist prescribed a cocktail of medications with no result. I have read and tried just about everything on this blog, including ACV and White Vinegar. Please keep in mind that ACV and White Vinegar is an astringent, which causes the skin to dry out after the burning subsides. Also, vinegar will only provide temporary relief. If your using the vinegar, keep your skin moist with lotion and gentle soap. At one point, I think I gave myself a chemical burn.Last week, my niece, who is very health conscious suggested I use Colloidal Silver. THIS IS THE MIRACLE CURE. Colloidal Silver can be purchased at any health food store for about 30.00. This product contains purified water and silver particles. It is best to purchase the 10 ppm. I also purchased a small glass spray bottle. For the past three days I have placed a tablespoon of sovereign silver under my tongue (tastes like water) every 3 hours, except while sleeping. I also transferred the sovereign silver to the spray bottle and sprayed my entire body. Further, I bought Cetaphil soap from Walgreens. The soap is anti-bacterial and is gentle on the skin.
Another quick thought, the silver is a metal which helps regulate the ph and acid in our body. Too much acid in our body weakens the immune system. Then, the body is unable to fight certain strains of bacteria.
Try the Colloidal Silver and in 2 days you will experience life as it was prior to having folliculitis."
05/02/2012: Sheena from Buffalo, New York replies: "oh wow! I never thot of vinigar for this issue! I am a newbee to the world of folliculitis. But what I did not realize is that I have had it for a very long time. The worst was a pea sized bump I had on my thigh. Stayed that size for months, never thot anything of it. Then it was like bam, huge and gross like the size of a saucer plate. And I had a red hot circle around it the size of a dinner plate. Needless to say the infection in the follicle had gotten to such an extent that I was in the hospital for a weekend, and after cultures were done, I found out I had MRSA. I was so mortified.The outbreaks have been many since then; however nothing to that extreem. Thank god. But my whole life has changed significantly since then. No more smelly lotions, soaps, or sprays directly on the skin. Only crtain shampoos. Only antibacterial body wash. But what hurts the most is the absesses I get on my face.
Al that time I thot I was plagued by acne, and it was this. My life has genuinly been hindered by this. But I think I will give the vinigar a try. It is after all natures disinfectant. And I currently do use oil of oregano, 2 pills twice a day. I also was perscribed by my dr this ointment that feels a lot like neosporin, but its water and glycerin based. Called mupirocin, generic for batraban. This stuff works great, but its very expensive, and only comes in tiny tubes. I do tho recommenend it, it is used to treat impetigo, which is a gram negative staph bacteria. And if you have any basic knowledge of folliculitis you know that it is a staph gram negative bacteria build up in the haitr follicle."
05/09/2012: Mia from West College Corner, Indiana replies: "For your face try proactiv skin care it has worked great for me on my face. However my scalp was almost healed and I was using Wen shampoo and other products. I had just one spot left to heal and I thought it was a miracle. Then one day many spots appeared out of no where. I have tried vinegar, shampoos, antibiotics almost anything I could get my hands on. My face is still mostly clear and I use the proactiv every day, this I will not give up on. Dead Sea Salt is one thing I have read that I have not tried yet. I wish I could just find it in a health food store and not have to order it on the web. This medical mystery is about to drive me crazy."
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[YEA] 11/05/2007: J M from San Jose, California: "I've used both apple cider vinegar and just straight up white distilled vinegar to get rid of folliculitis.
I've had folliculitis twice within the past 7 months. The first time was very very bad case of folliculitis. They looked like large pimples with hair in the center. It was all over my legs. Because they were so bad, I submerged and agitated vinegar over each leg for about an hour every night and then I let it air dry. I did this for about 6 weeks. 'The second time I got folliculitis was about a month ago. I saw the familiar tell tale signs of folliculitis starting on my calves. The small red bumps were forming, and at the center were the hair follicles. So I immediately started the vinegar treatment that night. This one took me about 3 weeks or maybe a little more. Every night I'd submerge and agitate vinegar over the affected area (and maybe a little more)
It does smell, but if you let it air dry before going to bed and then showering in the morning, the smell shouldn't be noticable to others at all if you wear jeans over it.
A little warning, I do swear that this treatment works, but it does tend to burn like crazy. This can be the most depressing hour of your life because it does burn, but the burn only lasts for about the first week or so of treatment. maybe a little longer. You'll notice that the affected spots will dry up and form scabs and eventually flake off.
Do not scratch at the spots. I suggest wearing socks over your hands and maybe evening tying them up at night when sleeping.
This truly does work!! try it. Beats antibiotics and doctor visits. I buy 3 gallons of white distilled vinegar and pour em into a bucket and put one leg at a time in. I use my hands to scoop vinegar all over the legs. I change vinegar whenever it gets cloudy.
My dermatologist had me on minocyclin 100mg for 3 months along with duac for 3 -4 months with no success. He couldn't figure out how to cure it. I gave up on him and gave in to my mom's suggestion of trying vinegar treatment. This treatment is faster than the conventional treatment of using duac for the suggested 8 weeks."
Replies[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 05/23/2010: Gp from London, United Kingdom replies: "Hi just had to write to encourage others to try this cure for folliculitis, which I have had for 4 years! I stumbled across this website the other day, and wanted to try it for myself, at first I was sceptical as I like many others have been from one antibiotic, lotions, potions and creams without success, for this very embarrasing, and painful condition. I got myself a plant spray and poured pure some distilled white vinegar and sprayed my legs, which at present are covered with infected hairs and past dark red scars. Couldnt quite believe it the, the fresh spots, seemed to just disappear and my old scars dont seem so apparent. Its great! Ive only been doing it for one day! so I am definitely going to try this every day and hope to see a difference. I had visited my GP on Friday and came back very despondent with his vagueness of information on such, for me, such a debilitating condition, affecting my relationships and now my lifestyle, as the painful infected spots look just awful and my post-follicular spots look dark and horrible. There is hope, and I am hoping that vinegar can help me. Try it for yourself, with best wishes GP."
06/22/2010: Steven T. from Maine And Nj replies: "I have had folliculitis for close to 6 years, maybe a little over. I have no clue how I got it, but all I know is I need to deal with it and keep it under wraps because I am in my mid 20's and I want to feel confident and date girls again. I used to have a worse case of folliculitis, however minor in comparison to the ones I have seen on the net.
I went to the dermatologist and he prescribed antibiotics and a topical anti-fungal cream. The antibiotics worked very well, cleared me up just about completely, but then I ran out and the folliculitis came back. I only used the fungal cream when I had break outs which works very well. But now a days, the folliculitis is definitely not as severe as it was. I used to get golf ball sized puff balls on the side of my scalp and it would hurt so bad. I wouldn't want to go out at all. Now that its not as bad, they are minimized to an eraser size pimple up to a dime. I will definitely take that over golf balls! Still painful however, but not nearly as bad.
Now I am applying Clindomyacin (topical anti-fungal cream) every night after a shower and I am clearing up from my most recent attack.
I have been toying with the idea of the holistic apple cider vinegar way of curing this, and decided to give it a try as well. I started a few days ago, and already it seems like it is clearing up well. However, as anyone who suffers with folliculitis knows, this may not mean a thing because it comes and goes often. However I have high hopes and it already feels much better than it has, quick than usual. *knocks on wood* It does burn a bit when I apply if it is a freshly popped pimple. But to me it seems like putting hdyrogen peroxide on a cut, the burn is a good thing!
I will keep everyone posted in the coming weeks and hopefully we can learn and share ideas with each other and get this under control!
I have heard of using a low pH soap with a balance of 4.5. I think this is why Apple Cider Vinegar has a good chance of working because its pH is a 5. Science is certain bacteria can not live in a low pH zone unless they are adapted to that type of environment, so I am thinking this low pH liquid is actually killing it. Not sure obviously, but it seems like a feasible theory. *CROSSES FINGERS!*"
[YEA] 07/14/2011: David from Poole, Dorset, England replies: "I stumbled across this website yesterday after googling 'folliculitis', an affliction that I have had for many years. I have tried various remedies including colloidal silver, medicated soaps and scrubs and prolonged courses of antibiotics. My folliculitis has become quite extensive, covering the whole of my legs, my buttocks, the small of my back and to a lesser extent, my stomach. It is both uncomfortable and embarrassing and I would desperately like to be shot of it.Anyway, after reading the postings here I decided to try white vinegar. Nothing fancy, when I got home from work I simply splashed it into the palm of my hand and applied it to the affected areas. It stung a bit and of course it smells quite strongly, but I allowed it to air dry then went to bed after a long night shift.
So far, I'm amazed at the difference after just one application! I have been suffering from a particularly bad recurrence after finishing a seven month course of antibiotics (that offered some relief but also seems to have developed a stronger, resistant condition), and the spots on my legs were quite large and painful. When I got up after a good sleep the difference was profound: the inflammation was considerably reduced, the itching also reduced, and the spots seem to have shrunk quite dramatically. And this is just after day one!
I'm so excited that I may have finally stumbled upon an effective remedy. Thanks to previous posters for their contributions that have pointed me in, hopefully, the right direction. Good luck to all in beating this curse."
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ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP, APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, TURMERIC
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[YEA] 10/26/2011: Jeff from Brisbane, Australia: "Hi folks, I have had folliculitis mainly on the scalp and hair line (owww! ) for 10-11 years and have been on prescribed antibiotics several times. The antibiotic treatment was less successful each time and the relief from the ailment at the last prescription was less than two weeks after the full course was taken.
I was so happy when I found this website and read so many stories similiar to mine; relief is at hand!
My approach to defeating this malady was a three pronged attack:
1. Wash hair with anti-bacterial soap;
2. Apply ACV (pew!) or anti-bacterial alcohol solution liberally to whole of scalp;
3. One teaspoon of turmeric disolved in water, drink and enjoy.
Repeat twice daily if necessary, be persistent and victory over this painful and embarrasing affliction will be yours!!!"
Replies11/02/2011: Vitor from Sidney, Australia replies: "Hi, how long have you been clear in your scalp now?And does it still work ? I've tried alot of things, and found out that turmeric does work a little. But when I applyed ACV I feelt like the next day I got more irritations/bumps in the side of the scalp. U were talking about anti bacterial alcohol, does that means the same as anti bacterial hand gel ? Really tired of this now, so hoping to find a good cure :)"
02/06/2012: Maryherb from Visalia, Ca, United States replies: "CHINESE HERBALIST!!!! Find one!! They have a cure!!!!!"
03/08/2012: Pratibha from Banglore, India replies: "Try out applying hot water with salt. It really works, I tried. And also have a glass of water with turmeric daily which purifies the blood. Firstly apply the tooth paste on pimple and leave it dry overnight and next day morning try out this."
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ANTIBIOTICS CONNECTION
07/31/2011: Angie from S, Indiana: "I am prone to folliculitis. Over the past 6 years I have had it twice. In both instances I felt the bumps on my scalp, had flu like sympoms and ran a fever. I was put on antibiotics and was better in a week. This past May I was again diagnosed with folliculitis. I thought it was weird that I was getting folliculitis again because I had just gotten over pneumonia and an ear infection and had been on two rounds of antibiotics.
My doctor put me on more antibiotics and I got worse. He switched me to Kflex and I took four rounds of that and got worse. I switched doctors and the new Dr. Put me on Cipra. After 10 days on Cipra, I started developing a rash on my chest, arms and legs. My face was flushed and I developed sores in my mouth. I found out I am allergic to sulfides so I decided to see a dermatologist. Before I saw him they took a culture of the blisters and tested them against different antibiotics. I took that report to the dermatologist and based on the report he put me on augmentin. I got a lot worse on augmentin.
I decided to research and I found this site. I tried the Apple Cider Vinegar and it made it worse. Tea tree oil helped and turmeric helped, but it was still spreading rapidly. Swimming made it worse. Sweating made it worse. I could feel it move and spread. It hurt and burned. I quit going to the gym.
Then I read a comment on this site about developing folliculits while on antibiotics and how it caused not a bacterial based infection, but a yeast based infection. I gave this info to my dermatologist and he took me off anitibiotics and put me on a 10 day oral antifungal medication and for the first time in 11 weeks my scalp is blister free. It is all healing up and drying up. I can't thank this site enough. I am going to continue to add turmeric to my daily vitamins because I believe that it will help prevent it from coming back. I would say that you might check into yeast even if you have had a culture taken. They took a culture of my blisters and it showed a high concentration of bacteria and the report didn't say anything about yeast, but the bacteria wasn't the problem. Good Luck!"
Replies08/05/2011: Deena from Boston, Mass replies: "Angie from Indiana: I was wondering about the antibiotic & folliculitis connection you observed. When you were done taking the antibiotics did the folliculitis infection persist?I was prescribed and took an antibiotic for about a year, possibly longer, to treat acne on my face. I no longer take those antibiotics as now we have found topical medications that work at clearing the acne on my face. I also was given antibiotics 2 years ago when my mono was misdiagnosed as a upper respiratory infection, from what I remember. But I still have what I believe to be is foliculitis on my stomach and have had it there for a while, a year or so. I was just too embarassed to talk to someone about it or get any answers. Now I want to be free of this problem, I realize it is not something to be embarassed about it is something I need to figure out how to get taken care of. I have been applying vinegar and alcohol to the infection at least once a day for a week now (usually I apply 2-3 times a day). I have started using an antibiotic ointment on the infection (do you think this would help?) and applying tea tree oil (kills yeast) for 2 days now. I am seeing a little improvement, but I am still considering setting up an appointment with my dermatologist. :/"
08/10/2011: Angie from S, In replies: "Hi Deena... The folliculitis is back... So now I'm not sure about the yeast. I have scalp psoriasis so I have been prone to folliculititis before, but this time seemed so different. I still believe that my folliculitis started during the antibiotics I was on for pneumonia, and I really feel that I have had issues with yeast, but now I think it has been yeast and bacteria. I am hoping that the yeast is cleared up and now we are focusing on the bacteria. I was just put on Dioxicyclen... Not sure that spelling is right, the folliculitis has cleared but isn't gone.... I can still see pink at the base of my hair follicles. I am taking turmeric and I can feel it work. I am taking it inbetween the times that I take the antibiotic. I have also eliminated sugar and gluten from my diet in hopes that it will help. At the end of the month I see a doctor locally that is an MD but also has an "alternative" degree and he prescribes at lot of herbs, suppliments etc. He also tests a lot of levels in your body that traditional doctors don't so I am hopeful he can help as well. I would like to clear it up. When it breaks out... I feel like I have the flu and it hurts... You can buy an over the counter yeast medicine and take it and see how you feel. When I took the diflucan, I felt sooooo much better. My scalp felt cooler and the spots healed up. It was immediate. I think the tea tree oil is good. I added a few drops to my shampoo. I didn't have luck with vinegar, but a lot of people have. I think the turmeric has helped as well. Good Luck!"
08/22/2011: Carrie from Dallas, Tx replies: "Hello, I have had this problem for two years now, thousands in dematologist appointments, my doctor gave up on me. We tried many antibiotics, and anti fungal body wash.... Could you tell me the type of anti-yeast/fungal medicine your doctor prescribed? My doctor took a test, and said I came back negitive for fungus.... yet my case sounds very similar to yours."
10/26/2011: Paddy from Belfast, Ulster, Ireland replies: "I have had folliculitis on my scalp for just over a year now and it is seriously affecting my confidence. I haven't been able to get my hair shaved properly compared to what I used to, and have been taking all types of antibiotics for over a year along with scalp treatment and special shampoos also but recently it has been getting worse.Has your problem came back ever since you ended your anti fungal tablets or have they began to appear yet again once you finished the tablets?"
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APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
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[YEA] 02/26/2012: Joe from San Diego, Ca: "Check dis out I have always wondered what I had on my chin area white heads dat would go away when I shaved and then come back tried everything would go away 4 a minute and then get used 2 whatever I was using and come back what a bad feeling 2 b out and your whole face looking clear and these pus filled bumps wud start coming out on my chin area please please try da ACV apple cider vinegar it works can't believe it finally a million thanks 2 all da peeps who posted on having follicoltis dis changed my life woot woot!"
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09/24/2011: Dean B from Wolverhampton, West Midlands, England: "I've been diagnosed with foliculitus of the scalp, I've used different antibiotics and also tea tree oil and lavender but it's not stopped the itching.
I've had it for 3 months now, and I've restarted taking the anti-biotics again and before I had lots of scabs and sores around the back of my head and crown but now they have gone, but I still have itching.... so I bought some ACV, only one I could find was apple cidre vinegar, I applied two teaspoons to 250ml of warm water and applied to the itching areas of the scalp, and then wrapped a towel around my head and washed it off after 15 mins and then washed twice as normal with my normal shampoo, which is E45.
Now it usually stops the itching, but today it's itching more than it has in awhile and I lost more hair when washing last night, I'm a 26 yr old guy and been thinning for awhile, but now I have this itchy scalp I've lost more, but after using ACV again last night, I lost more than I have in awhile. I've used it 4-5 now over the past weeks.
So will the mother raw ACV help me more? Â Is it the best for scalp infections like folicilitus? I don't have the scabs so much now but have itches all over my head.
So how much ACV should I apply when washing? Should I do it before washing then shampoo or shampoo as normal then apply ACV and leave on, and if so, how long do I leave it on for?
Is it also a good idea to drink it too, to kill anything causing this follicilutis from inside me?
Anymore advice on Apple Cider Vinegar to get rid of this folicilutis is much appreciated. Thankyou.
Please reply, I really need this advice so I know what to do, as the itching is so annoying."
Replies09/25/2011: Liz from Denver, Co replies: "Are you sure it is that- I would have you check in with any shampoo or conditioner you may have started using within the time, maybe you dyed your hair? I sometimes get this sort of thing if I use anything with silicone in it- just eliminate all chemical hair things you use to see if there is a change- use vinegar and beer and baking soda as a hair wash for a couple weeks to detox- dilute a bunch- Good Luck"
10/07/2011: Sarah from San Francisco, Ca. replies: "I have been researching folliculitis for so long now, because I get rashes on my chest and shoulders all the time. Have been on all sort of meds. The itchy scalp and rash thing also could be demedox mites. Something I had never heard of until recently, but found are very well known in Asia and eastern europe as being the culprit for these conditions. The one thing that seems to work is Diatomaceous earth. It is drying to the hair, so better to apply on thr scalp only and wear a cap to bed. It kills the mites. It also dries up acne on the body. I had acne on my lower back that would not go away. After about 3 days of DE dusted in my skin, it was gone and hasn't returned. The rash on my shoulders and chest came back though, so I am now using ACV and the DE for that. Many people are afraid to use the DE, but I have for months and it is harmless. Food grade diatomaceous earth, it had so many wonderful uses. A bit messy, but worth it. Look into it. It helped me when nothing else did. :) I also put it on my dog for fleas and drink it in the morning, It cleans your insides and makes your skin bright."
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09/13/2011: Deaaan from Wolverhampton, England: "I haven't got any H202 at the moment, so I can I use just use the ACV? I read two tablespoons of ACV with a cup of water, mix it round and pour onto the scalp, then put a towel round your head for 15mins and then remove towel and wash as normal? How's that sound? Would that amount be ok and would 15mins be sufficient in getting rid of my scalp infection?
I currently use E45 shampoo, its SLS free, so is that okay?
I'm going to do it tonight, so reply asap!! Thanks."
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[YEA] 01/08/2011: Natalie from Doncaster, England: "just wanted say that I have had folliculitis for over three years, I had tried antibiotics, creams etc. I began to lose hope...... Until I came across using apple cider vineager 50/50 solution on the affected areas. In my case face, chest, torso sometimes legs. It worked almost immediately, within days, when I don't use the vineager solution it gradually comes back until I start to bathe the areas with the Apple Cider Vinegar again.
I also find that sea salt scrubs and baths help too. I wanted to post this as it is the only thing that has made a dramatic difference to this horrible condition. I hope this helps some one else."
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APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, TURMERIC
05/26/2009: Kathy from Livermore, Ca: "I just came down with what I thought was a horrible case of acne, something I have never had. It was painful and covering my face and neck. Just from reading your site in the past I decided to use ACV on a cotton pad. It really took it down quite a bit. But what really made it turn the table was some powder that was sent to me as a freeby when I ordered some magnesium. I think it's a bi product of mica mining. It was down right amazing. Today I just got back from the Dr. who diagnosed it as folliculitis not acne, he wants me on antibiotics. Once I heard the diagnosis, I did further research on your site, I will now try turmeric as well. I was scared enough to take the antibiotics when the Dr. said it was caused by strep or staph, but just swallowed some turmeric instead, I will let you know if it clears it completely...meanwhile I'm covered in ACV and mica dust which has been a life saver!"
Replies12/14/2011: Janet from Elkin, Nc, Usa replies: "Exactly what is the dust that came with the Magnesium? I'm looking into all possible remedies for my husband. He has had folliculitis on his scalp for nearly 15 years. We have just cut all yeast out of our diet and are severely cutting back on carbs and sugar. I think we will start a vinegar soak later this week, but I'm trying to figure out all possible avenues. Thanks for your help! I hope to be posting his solution soon!!"
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BORAX AND HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
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[YEA] 12/30/2007: Teresa from Sumner, WA: "re: dermodetic mites on face. BORAX and PEROXIDE. Thank you Ted for your wonderful postings. You are truly the answer to peoples' prayers. I have been to many doctors and was told that what I had was acne and' folliculitus. I read your cures and decided to try it since nothing the doctors gave me (antibiotics, steroid creams and even Accutane) have helped. I thought it couldn't be that simple but it was. So to all the skeptics give it a try (borax and peroxide) You are truly an honest man and compassionate. Thank you"
Replies04/19/2010: Jb from San Diego, California Usa replies: "I would like to know how to use the borax and hydrogen peroxide. How do you mix it? How much do you use, and how often? Thank you."
EC: Please see the rosacea section for more details:
http://earthclinic.com/CURES/rosacea.html#TED
http://earthclinic.com/CURES/rosacea3.html#TEDS
http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/rosacea_questions.html
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CALAMINE LOTION
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[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 03/23/2011: Juan from Los Angeles, California: "Id been suffering with Folliculitus on my scalp for five months. In the beginning of it I had confused it with a pimple. So I popped it and continued shaving my head like always since 1997. Days went by and more of them would come out. I would pop them and would continued with my normal routine. Until I notice that these bumps on my scalp were not pimples but something else. The more I would shave the more it would spread. Did some research on webmd and bam Folliculitus. I was hoping that it would go away on its own but no luck. I would aggravate it more when I would go to do my MMA classes.
On the Fourth month of the curse it got to the point where the itching was unberable and by scrachting it, the bumps would get bigger and the pain was intolarable. My head was looking horrible embarrassing sick. Went to urgent care and told me to stop shaving, stop the MMA classes and take antibiotics Doxycicline and use an antiseptic for cleaning off all the pus that would come out. It work for about three days and came back worse than before. The itching was hell I could almost feel the bacteria moving around my scalp and then the pain was so bad that it would wake me up from my sleep. I was not able to rest my head for a long time in one position because it would create pressure on the bumps. I became very desperate for some kind of relief. Checked out some sites on the internet stumble on this one and tried EVERYTHING!!!!
Turmeric 6 tablets a day didnt work, Apple white vinegar daily wash relief for some minutes but nope didnt work, mupirocin antibiotic oinment nope, clotrimazole antifungal cream nope didnt work, Lamisil nope, Alcohol nope, Witch hazel nope, until a memory ran through my head of a time I rubbed against poison oak. Calamine lotion!!! When I had poison oak rash on my forearm the itching was hell and the oozing was disgusting and contagious.
Bought the Calamine CLEAR lotion, got home washed up and rubbed that Calamine on my scalp. It work like Heaven. The itching stop instantly and the next morning my scalp was looking wayyyyy better. I still have some bumps but the relief from the itching and that thumping pain is gone. I also order Terrasil its on its way but for now the Calamine Clear lotion is good very good the only thing that has work for me. The Clear one because I dont want to be walking around work with the pink Calamine on my head. Folliculitus is very embarrasing to have. The pain and itching is hell. Im ready to get rid of it im doing everything right to stop it from living on my scalp. Hopefully this advice will help those who suffer from it!"
Replies04/30/2011: Joe from Charlotte, Nc replies: "you have pityrosporum/mallassezia folliculitis. its caused by the same fungus that causes foot fungus. Mallassazia furfur. If you shaved your head before mma class and "rolled" on the mats the foot fungus would easily get into your pores/hair follicles. standard clotrimazole wont work and antibiotics will only make it worse. go to a dermatologist and get a prescription for diflucan and ketoconzole cream. the longer you wait the more systemic it will become."
11/04/2011: Karlene from London, Uk replies: "Try oil of oregano and go on a yeast free, sugar free diet for awhile. This means reduced carbs as well. It was not easy but this is how mine got cured."
02/06/2012: Maryherb from Visalia, Ca, United States replies: "I am not a chinese doctor or even asian!! GO SEE A CHINESE HERBALIST THEY CURED ME!!!!!!!"
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COCONUT OIL
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[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 09/14/2010: Cath from Brunswick, Georgia: "I was so scared I had a staph infection I went to a dermatologist in June. Yes, folliculits! And, I said, WHAT! I was put on Cipro which is what they give for anthrax! So, I guess it killed any staph. But the ugly sores dot my chest, arms and legs. My health food store guy researched and said Coconut Oil was now being recommended. You put it all over your body twice a day and take a tablespoon. Taste is kinda blah. Seems to clear up the scabs and starts the healing process. Compared to what you all have written I must have a minor case. You have some real horror stories. So I'm gonna up the treatment with some of the stuff mentioned here. Screw these medical sites that say it goes away soon!"
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FOLLICULITIS TRIGGERS: HAIR DYE
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[SIDE EFFECTS] 06/11/2010: Jb from San Diego, California Usa: "Looks like my folliculitis was caused by an allergy to PPD, an ingredient found in every permanent hair dye in the US (and banned in Europe!)I had an itchy rash, boils and swelling on my hairline and scalp for months. The first dermatologist I consulted diagnosed folliculitis and put me on minocin for 10 days. When i didn't help, he suggested I stay on it for 10-12 weeks. No thanks! He also gave me an antifungal shampoo which did not help. The second dermatologist also thought it was folliculitis and was going to do a biopsy, but when I mentioned that I had colored my hair a few days before and it seemed to make it worse, she suggested a True Test allergy patch test. We found that I am extremely allergic to PPD and a few chemicals related to it. I have not used PPD since for about six weeks and my skin is much better--knock on wood. I have my fingers crossed that PPD was the problem. It's nasty stuff--a petroleum derivative that may be carcinogenic as well. Now I just need something to color my gray roots!"
EC: Hi Jb:
You might find some interesting info in this thread - see post by Darwin: http://askville.amazon.com/Hypo-Allergenic-Hair-Dye/AnswerViewer.do?requestId=4567215
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GENERAL FEEDBACK
02/24/2012: Save Us All from Abq, Nm: "Been suffering from scalp folliculitis for a few years now. I clear when I am on anti-biotics but it returns shortly after treatment. Tried ACV internally, tea tree oil shampoos, all natural shampoos, t-gel etc.
I wanted to post an update as of 1/11/12. I've stopped using shampoo altogether and just used the water from boiling guava leaves (they have medicinal properties look it up on the web). Let it cool put it into a bottle and then use it to rinse the area on my scalp for a few weeks every day until the sores go down and then every other day. My itchy scalp and sores have all healed up and I no longer get breakouts like I did with every other treatment I've used. It turns out that my itchy sores were caused by some sort of allergic reaction to the chemicals in the shampoo.
Okay as of 2/24/12 I have been getting some spots on my scalp and the itchiness has returned. Scalp folliculitis is an odd ailment. It comes and goes but never goes away completely. It is downright disgusting and an irritating ordeal. I pray we find a common solution once and for all.
I will continue to experiment to see. Gonna go see a Chinese herbalist too."
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06/17/2011: Dolphins7 from Youngstown, Ohio, United States: "Ive been including turmeric in my diet, and Apple Cider Vinegar and peroxdie and borax in showers, what I find is that in the mornings scabs formed over the pimples.. is this a sign of progress? Iodine also has helped a particular stubborn zit scab, is this a sign its healing underneath? Whats the best way to really get under the skin and open the pores to cleanse them with the borax acv peroxide? How long will it take? and once its gone whats the best way to keep them from reocurring."
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HIBICLENS
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[YEA] 03/08/2011: Lola1978 from New Orleans, La: "I have had severe folliculitis on my butt area for over 5 years. I have tried everything, including multiple trips to the dermatologist. For several years I thought I had acne, but after lots of research I have determined it is folliculitis. I've taken oral anitbiotics, used apple cide vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, tumeric - to no avail. But finally, I've found something that is working - hibiclens. Its an antibacterial wash that can be found at the drug store. Doctors use it before surgery. You should only use it once a week, and you need to make sure to mositurize. My dermatologist reccommended CeraVe moisturizer daily, to protect the skin. Also, she prescribed an antibacterial foam called Clindamyclin which is working. I have stopped using my scrubber in the shower, as it is a bacterial breeding ground and only use my hands to wash with no. Also, she said I should never re-use a towel. So far this process has worked incredibly well and I'm completely clear."
Replies[YEA] 04/30/2012: Canon from Asheboro, Nc replies: "I also have had pretty severe foliculitus on my butt for around 4 years and recently tried Hibiclens to my benefit. The stuff really does help, however, it still doesnt clear it completely up for me. I use it twice a day in the shower. Nonetheless, Im still trying to find other remedies to completely clear it. Let me know if you find anything else as well!"
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HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
06/13/2011: Dolphins7 from Youngstown, Ohio, United States: "I know the peroxide will bleach my hair.. , but I found that when I did use it, it cleared the problem up, even tho it eventually came back. Is there a way to dilute the hydrogen peroxide so it wont turn my hair red? Or should I continue using Ted's 1:1:10 with Apple Cider Vinegar and hydro and water?"
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IODINE
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[YEA] 07/15/2008: Harrison from Boulder, Colorado: "Skin keratinosis & Iodine: I used a drop of iodine on a small patch of skin on my hand that just wouldn't respond to anything. It was like a small white scab. Each time the area would scab from the iodine I would tear it so the new application could get under the skin. After a couple of weeks the area was completely smooth and the keratinosis is gone. I used only one drop each application. I used the Lugols brand in liquid form. Since iodine stains your skin for a few days, if the area is on an obvious spot like your face, I'd suggest waiting until it dries then using makeup. At the same time as this treatment I used a tablespoon of SuperGreens PhytoFood from NutriPlex Formulas."
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MMS, NEEM OIL
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[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 06/25/2009: Corey from Sherman Oaks, CA: "Hello fellow folliculitis sufferers. i have been having chronic scalp follicultiis since 2000. I have been to many doctors and dermatologists and have found only temporary relief after taking courses of antibiotics and then as soon as i am done the folliculitis comes back. I have been on acne meds since i was 15 years old, up into my late 20's including accutane twice. I definately think there is some connection. I became my own health advocate and became a holistic junkie. I also believe that high acidity levels in the body (your ph being out of balance) and high levels of yeast and germ (fungal ) over growth are major contributors. I found relief taking MMS, after doing their program and on a maintenance dose of 6 drops in the morning and 6 drops in the evening, that it keeps my scalp folliculitis free, however if i stop taking it the folliculitis comes back.
About Five years ago the folliculitis spread to my face and i started getting severe acne cysts that would last for months and bleed. I found Neem to be especially helpful in clearing that condition up. I have tried every product on my face and when i found the Neem ___, with regular usage (daily) it cleared my face up. It does smell though so i use it at night before bed. Hopefully they will allow these product names so some of you can find relief. I am now trying the ACV and turmeric as well to see how they do."
Replies02/13/2012: Jon from Salt Lake, Utah replies: "Hey Corey, thanks for the post. I have had folliculitus for about 4 years now (on the scalp) and have just recently began looking for natural cures--hoping to get off antibiotics. I had two quick questions relating to your post:(1) What is MMS, and what was the dose you took before maintenance?
(2) Are you still free from folliculitus on the scalp?"
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MULTIPLE REMEDIES
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[YEA] 08/07/2011: Bill from Nashville, Tennessee: "I had staph for about six years. I had a culture done by a doctor, and dioxycycline was the antibiotic the strain of staph I had was succeptible to. I was also told to take a bleach bath every other day (3/4 cup of bleach in my bath water). I did it, and the staph on my neck and lower face cleared up; however the staph on my forehead would never totally clear up. It was deep down in my pores.
What finally worked was using bleach water compresses twice per day. People can't tolerate full bleach baths more than every other day because it begins to sting and burn one's skin too much. However, I could tolerate the bleach water compresses twice per day. The every other day bleach bath just wasn't enough to kill the bacteria faster than it was multiplying - but the twice per day bleach water compresses were.
Also many say to use antibacterial soap. However, this dried my skin too much and killed the good bacteria that fights staph. I switched to Camay and Dove brand soaps, and combined with the bleach compresses my staph cleared all the way up.
I did have success with vinegar at one point, but it keeps the staph sores open while it kills them. They would spread and spread while open - I would get my forehead clear, but it would get on my neck because the vinegar kept the sores open and let the fluid cause the infection to spread around my head when I slept. The bleach water did not keep the sores open and spreading while they healed like the vinegar did."
Replies04/14/2012: Brendon from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia replies: "Hi all, I have been suffering from Foliculitis Decalvans for about 7 years. Before this month I had tried shampoos, diet change recommended by a naturopath, doxycycline, rifampin, clindamycin and nothing worked. As you are all aware, it is very humiliating to sit in a hairdressers chair and have to explain the condition each time.My wife has been on at me for a while about going back to the dermatologist (who I had spent 2000 with to no avail), but it wasn't until I noticed permanent hair loss at my crown that I went back to my GP to get a referral.
Given the time to wait to get a dermo appointment, my new GP suggested a new swab and blood test, and noticed staph was present (previous swab didn't show). She suggested multiple lines of defense listed below;
- Clarythramycin 250mg 3 times daily
- Cephalexcen 300mg twice daily
- Selsun shampoo
- Tea tree conditioner
- Fucidin ointment with grapeseed oil (to water down) topically.
After two weeks but scalp has all but completely healed. Most of my scalp hair is clamped together, but the weeping sores have all gone. It has now been 8 weeks and touch wood it stays away. I'll let you all know if it does."
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PROBIOTICS
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[YEA] 12/17/2011: Milli from Seattle, Wa: "I tried almost everything on this site for a case of folliculitis on my rear and one lump that appeared on my neck. I have had this issue for at least 6 months.
ACV did not work, or only worked temporarily. Drinking it, putting it on the skin, both no gos.
Bacitracin worked, but only a little better than the ACV. I also tried Nigerian black soap (little change). Hibiclens also same results. Vitamins didn't change anything.
Dr. Weil's site mentions this as an immune system disorder which may be aided by probiotics. I looked into IHerb dot com to see which had the best reviews, and that was Dr. Ohira's line. I have had great success with these. They come in 2 strengths, I got the lower strength because of cost.
The folliculitis has been subsiding for the 3 days that I've taken these and is almost completely gone - in addition, I also feel much better, with tons more energy. I had a problem feeling tired after every meal (no matter if it was high or low carb, junk food or healthy, raw or cooked) - also felt tired upon arising - that problem is now gone."
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REMEDIES NEEDED
09/24/2011: Ab from Hawally, Kuwait: "Hi , I get this folliculitis burst every time I get my face thread as I have loads of facial hair. This folliculits ends up as scars on my face, giving my face more darkened appearence, how to get rid of this folliculitis?"
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09/08/2011: Tonya from Columbus, Oh: "I have had severe folliculitis since my gallbladder surgery in 2003. It is all over my abdomen, upper legs and now has shown up on my breasts. The pustules are red, sore and full of puss. I have been on antibiodics, special cleansers, diet, etc... NOTHING is working. The oral medications work, but only as long as I'm taking them. The miniute the medicine is over, it comes right back. What now? Anyone have any suggestions?"
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SEA SALT, APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, TEA TREE AND LAVENDAR OILS
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[YEA] 03/16/2008: Kerri from Kingston, Canada: "Ah...the joy of folliculitis. I have had it so have some of the kids. The most painful is when it is on the bottom. It is like sitting on little shards of glass, even in the bathtub!!! I have had it ever since I could remember. I was an undiagnosed food allergy & contact allergy kid. Didn't get properly diagnosed till an adult. I also have chronic candidiasis (diagnosed around 11 years ago) and based on past history probably had it from the time I was an infant. So the folliculitis, for me, could have also been related to allergies &/or yeast. Then add to that my reactions to fabrics (aka my underwear!) and I am also VERY prone to strep. I was hospitalized & could have died from a serious cellulitis which was most likely strep related. The Dr. prescribed an prescription product for strep & staph & it did work, but I didn't really like using it....Ah Fucidin is what it was called, I think.
The last bout of folliculitis I did research on natural remedies and this is what we settled on. First we made a warm water solution of Himalayan sea salt (I am sure any sea salt should do) and wiped that over & beyond the area with the folliculitis. Then when it was dry we wiped over the area & beyond with apple cider vinegar. Finally dd put on tea tree oil & lavender oil (neat). She had it on her chest & face. We also get it on our bottoms & the tops of our upper thighs, chest & face. My original infection was probably folliculitis & then turned into the cellulitis. I had even been to the Dr. about it. Went into ER & they gave me meds, but I was getting worse (face & neck looked like I weighed 400lbs & I only really weigh 112lbs) finally they admitted me into a private room as they thought I might have a flesh eating disease or some other rare & contagious disease. For a little while they thought I had some rare form of lymph-node cancer. I was told to have my family &/or visit me (aka my parents, in-laws, etc.) in case I didn't survive. It was pretty scary & occurred when the twins were 18 months old!!
Oh...not trying to scare you!! I had folliculitis TONS of times before & since & that hasn't happened again. My immune system was way down, I was doing way too much & not sleeping enough or taking good enough care of myself. I think my body decided to give me a reality check & that is how my body sent the message!
My daughter (13) had it clear up well, but then new spots would crop up where she wasn't using anything so we basically had her do all of her face & all of her chest. It cleared up, but she had waited a couple of days to tell me thinking they were just "zits". She did get another "crop" of them, but put the above stuff on right away & they cleared up much more quickly & didn't spread. The other thing is to be aware that the bacteria that infected the hair follicles can also be spread onto the bath towel!! So you may want to wash & dry them after each bath. Also they can be spread by touching them, the bacteria then ends up on another part of the body.
Stress definitely is a contributing factor as well.
I did have dd take Vitamin C and get to bed early, etc. to boost her immune system.
So far it hasn't come back!!
Here is a web-site that lists the fucidin (I did have the right name!!)
http://www.acneguide.com/acus_basics/like_acne/folliculitis.html
http://www.vashonorganics.com/WSWrapper.jsp?mypage=treatment_symptoms
This is cool. It mentions the complication of cellulitis. When I did research after my cellulitis, I didn't find much info. But that was 6 years ago & there is a LOT more info on the net now!!
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/folliculitis/DS00512"
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SELSUN BLUE
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[YEA] 07/03/2008: Thalia from Detroit, Michigan: "WOW! I has folliculitis on my thighs and on the sides of my calfs which is like hair bumps. I used the selsun blue on it and WALA! not completely gone but what an improvement. Its great stuff. And it also works for tinea versicolor overtime. I have already noticed a difference on my arms. I just hope I don't turn blue!! LOL"
Replies10/11/2011: Mark from Albuquerque, New Mexico replies: "So how long did it take to work? I took the medication for this condition for 10 days, used antibactierial soap and nada. It's in my abdominal area and of course ahem, lower area. I would imagine this irritating it? Perhaps worth a shot?"
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