Effective 5 Products Used in Folliculitis Relief

Explore five proven products for easing folliculitis symptoms, including trusted options to calm irritation and help clear inflamed hair follicles.

Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles that often produces itchy, red bumps that can look like acne. Finding an effective treatment helps relieve discomfort and reduce the chance of recurring outbreaks. This list highlights five well-regarded products that address common causes and symptoms of folliculitis, offering practical choices for healthier skin.

1. EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment

For people dealing with stubborn skin problems, EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment is a versatile option used for various skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal folliculitis. The ointment is formulated to reduce pain and inflammation while targeting bacterial and fungal infection. It uses a transdermal delivery system called EMUTANEOUS® designed to help its natural ingredients reach deeper skin layers to support healing.

Key ingredients include Argentum Metallicum (Colloidal Silver), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree Oil), and Emu Oil, which together offer antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects. The formula is non-steroidal and chemical-free, and the brand reports no contraindications or side effects. Some users say they see visible improvement in conditions like eczema, shingles, burns, and itching in as little as 24 hours. It’s positioned as a premium product and can cost more than basic treatments, but many reviewers praise its results—an average rating of 4.71 out of 5 from over 7,000 customer reviews on the brand's site. Independent reviews are more mixed, with ProductReview.com.au at 2.9/5 from 30 reviews and Trustpilot at 3/5 from 472 reviews.

2. PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash (Benzoyl Peroxide)

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash is a commonly recommended antiseptic cleanser, especially useful when folliculitis is bacterial. Its active ingredient, benzoyl peroxide, kills bacteria on the skin’s surface, including Staphylococcus aureus, a frequent cause of folliculitis. Benzoyl peroxide also helps remove dead skin cells and excess oil that can clog follicles and fuel inflammation.

The wash comes in strengths such as 4% and 10%, so you can choose according to your skin’s tolerance; dermatologists often suggest starting with 4% to reduce irritation. Many users report steady improvement in body and scalp folliculitis with regular use. It’s generally affordable—a 4% tube typically retails around $12.59—making it an accessible over-the-counter option for managing flare-ups.

3. Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash (Salicylic Acid)

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash is a go-to for body acne and folliculitis thanks to salicylic acid. As a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate inside the follicle, removing dead skin cells and excess oil that can cause bumps and inflammation. That helps balance oil production and supports skin recovery.

The formula contains 2% salicylic acid and is made for daily body use. Users often report clearer skin on the back, shoulders, and chest within one to two weeks of consistent use. Some people may notice dryness if they overuse it, so following with a moisturizer is a common recommendation. It’s widely available and usually priced affordably, making it a convenient salicylic acid option.

4. Hibiclens Antiseptic Skin Cleanser (Chlorhexidine Gluconate)

Hibiclens is a strong antiseptic wash that uses chlorhexidine gluconate for broad antimicrobial action. It’s effective against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses, which is why it’s frequently used in clinical settings for infection control and can be helpful in preventing or managing folliculitis.

People with recurring folliculitis often find relief when they add Hibiclens to their routine. It works by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, which leads to cell death. Because it can dry the skin, some users dilute it or pair it with a moisturizer to lessen irritation, especially on sensitive areas. Available over-the-counter, Hibiclens is cost-effective, typically running about $10–$15.

5. Tea Tree Oil Body Wash/Treatments

Tea tree oil from Melaleuca Alternifolia is known for antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help with folliculitis. When included in washes or topical treatments, it can reduce redness, swelling, and tenderness while fighting bacterial and fungal growth.

Tea tree–based products, such as body washes or properly diluted essential oil blends, use these natural properties to offer relief. Examples include Purely Northwest Tea Tree Oil Body Wash and Majestic Pure Therapeutic Melaleuca Alternifolia Tea Tree Oil (when diluted correctly). Using tea tree oil at safe concentrations is important since undiluted oil can irritate skin. Evidence on its effectiveness for folliculitis is mixed—some users report low to moderate benefit—but many choose it as a natural or complementary approach. Tea tree oil products are generally inexpensive, with many body washes in the $10–$20 range.

Key Takeaways

• EMUAIDMAX offers relief for multiple skin issues, including folliculitis, through antibacterial and antifungal ingredients.
• Benzoyl peroxide washes like PanOxyl are effective against bacterial folliculitis by killing bacteria and helping clear clogged pores.
• Salicylic acid products such as Neutrogena Body Clear exfoliate and control oil to help prevent and treat folliculitis.
• Hibiclens provides strong antiseptic protection against a wide range of microbes, useful for tougher or recurring folliculitis.
• Tea tree oil treatments bring natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects that can calm inflamed follicles.

FAQ

What causes folliculitis?

Folliculitis happens when hair follicles become inflamed, often because bacteria or fungi enter the follicle and cause an infection. Other contributors include friction from tight clothing, shaving irritation, and trapped moisture.

How long does it take for folliculitis treatments to show results?

Results vary by product and person, but many topical options can improve symptoms within days to a few weeks. For example, some EMUAIDMAX users report visible change in as little as 24 hours; PanOxyl may take up to four weeks to show effects; and Neutrogena Body Clear users commonly see progress in one to two weeks.

When should I consult a dermatologist for folliculitis?

See a dermatologist if over-the-counter treatments don’t help after a few weeks, if the condition persists beyond two weeks, spreads, or the bumps become painful or filled with pus. A clinician can identify the root cause and prescribe stronger medications if needed.

Picking the right product can make a noticeable difference in comfort and skin appearance. Knowing what the active ingredients do and how they match your skin needs will help you choose a suitable option. If symptoms are severe or don’t improve, consult a healthcare professional for tailored care.