Does laser hair removal or electrolysis aggravate pityrosporum folliculitis on the face?

Folliculitis is a common skin condition most often caused by bacterial or fungal infections around hair follicles. Most cases are superficial and appear as red bumps that can be painful and itchy. Seen commonly in people with short curly hair growth, history of ACNE, prior skin infections with certain bacteria or yeast organisms. This condition can be aggravated by topical steroid creams, shaving, heavy sweating, tight fitting clothing or prolonged soaking in communal baths. Since treatment includes avoiding shaving and waxing of the affected areas this often leads patients to seek other forms of hair removal. The use of light energy and electrolysis for hair removal often leads to eradication of the hair follicle and can sometimes reduce or eliminate this problem completely. I have seen improvement of mild active infections using laser and IPL therapies directed at ACNE conditions and once cleared have had good success with hair removal as well. This usually requires sequential treatment sessions for best results. I recommend seeking a well trained provider in your area and watching the area closely for recurrence. You might also consider use of antibiotics or anti-fungals during the early treatment period if you have had deep infections in the past. Good luck.