Folliculitis Decalvans (FD)

Folliculitis Decalvans (FD) stems from widespread inflammation within the hair follicles, causing permanent hair loss in the affected areas.

Inflammation within the hair follicles of these areas is likely to produce a variety of noticeable symptoms, the first symptom is often ‘itchiness’- followed by:

• redness
• swelling
• pustules (blister-like pimples that contain pus)
• scars

Although the precise cause of this condition is unknown – bacteria may become trapped in the follicles, leading to pustules that cause the above symptoms and the resulting scar tissue and hair loss.

Although there is currently no ‘cure’ for FD – diagnosis and treatment should be sought quickly in order to prevent the condition from progressing.

Medication is currently the preferred treatment method, inc:

• Antibiotics (to control pustules and infections from open sores)
• Isotretinoin (a prescription form of Vit A that’s used for the treatment of severe acne)
• Oral corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation and its spread)