Groin Folliculitis: Symptoms (w/ Online Quiz), Causes & Treatment

Groin folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles in the groin, where each hair root sits inside the skin. This condition can lead to small red bumps, itching, or a burning sensation, and some bumps may contain pus. Many people describe it as feeling similar to acne but located in the groin area.

It is a very common issue and often develops when tight clothing rubs against the skin or when an ingrown hair forms after shaving or waxing. However, it can also appear due to a bacterial or fungal infection, especially in people who spend a lot of time in warm or damp environments.

In many cases, groin folliculitis improves with gentle cleansing using an antiseptic soap. However, some situations may require the use of specific creams or ointments, which should be recommended by a dermatologist.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of groin folliculitis include:

• Red bumps on the skin

• Small pus-filled bumps that resemble pimples

• Itching

• Burning sensation

• Tenderness or soreness in the area

Groin folliculitis may affect one or several hair follicles, and in some cases, it can also cause swelling, discomfort, or dark spots in the groin area. 

Online symptoms test

To check your chances of having groin folliculitis, please select the symptoms you are experiencing:

This tool is meant for general guidance only and should not be used as a diagnosis or as a substitute for seeing a dermatologist.

Confirming a diagnosis

A general practitioner or dermatologist can diagnose groin folliculitis by reviewing your symptoms and medical history, and performing a physical examination of the groin.

In some cases, to identify whether the cause is bacterial or fungal, the doctor may take a small sample from one of the bumps to be examined in a laboratory.

Possible causes

Groin folliculitis occurs when the hair follicle becomes inflamed, usually due to infection by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which normally lives on the skin and mucous membranes. It may also be caused by a fungal infection.

Several factors can make groin folliculitis more likely, including:

• Wearing tight clothing that creates friction

• Wearing clothing that traps moisture and increases sweating in the groin

• Waxing or shaving the area

• Frequently spending time in wet environments, such as pools or hot tubs

Groin folliculitis can also occur more often in people with weakened immune systems or in those with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, infections, or skin damage.

Treatment options

Groin folliculitis can often be managed at home with simple measures, such as applying a warm compress to the area three times a day and washing the area with warm water and antiseptic soap during your shower. These steps help open the pores and keep the skin clean.

If symptoms do not improve after 1 to 2 weeks of home care, it is important to see a dermatologist. They may prescribe ointments, lotions, or gels containing antibiotics such as neomycin, gentamicin, or mupirocin, which help fight bacteria and improve symptoms.

When dark spots remain in the groin after folliculitis heals, the doctor may recommend creams that help lighten the skin, such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, or vitamin C.

How to prevent groin folliculitis

Some ways to help prevent groin folliculitis include:

• Avoid wearing tight clothing

• Keep the groin area dry

• Shower with mild soap right after swimming or using hot tubs, spas, or other public water areas

• Wash the groin with mild soap and water before and after waxing or shaving

• Shave groin hair in the direction it naturally grows

• Exfoliate the groin area once a week to remove dead skin cells

• Avoid sharing towels or clothing

In some cases, your doctor may recommend laser hair removal to help prevent recurring folliculitis.