Can Folliculitis Cause Boils

Folliculitis is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles that can develop into a boil.

What is the difference between folliculitis and boils?

Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles due to an infection, injury, or irritation. It is characterized by tender, swollen areas that form around hair follicles, often on the neck, breasts, buttocks, and face. Boils (also referred to as furuncles) are pus-filled lesions that are painful and usually firm.

Can folliculitis cause abscess?

Infected hair follicles, or folliculitis, may cause abscesses to form in the follicle. Follicles can become infected if the hair within the follicle is trapped and unable to break through the skin, as can happen after shaving. Trapped hair follicles are commonly known as ingrown hairs.