Ingrown hairs/folliculitis in pubic area

Hi Doctor, about 10 days ago I shaved my pubic area with an electric trimmer. Admittedly, it wasn't completely sanitized, as I had previously used it for my face/beard. I showered immediately afterwards. In ensuing days, I noticed an increased amount of red spots around the area I shaved. (I've had a few of them in the past, but always thought they were simply acne.) It wasn't until the past week that I suspected some type of infection. I haven't been sexually active, so this can't be attributed to anything of the like.

There are small, scattered red spots in addition to blotches that seem discolored (pinkish and red and color, about identical to the individual spots). They DON'T itch, cause irritation, or contain any type of pus or discharge. Everything is basically flat. However, I noticed the area is consideraby warmer to the touch, which has convinced me that there is an infection. I know the medical term for ingrown pubic hairs is pseudofolliculitis pubis. Is this simply my condition or is there something more? I'm hoping that just growing the hair out will eventually solve the problem. How can I best treat this?

Thanks a lot for taking the time to read.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like folliculitis. Please keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.

[Oscar89]

hi, im 16 and i have this kinda red swollen pimple on my pubic area, it does not itch however it does hurt when i touch it. Ive had one before and it went away, this is now my second one, any ideas what could it  be?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The bump near the genitalia after shaving can be a boil or an ingrown hair t. Apply warm compresses and keep the area clean. Also apply a topical antibiotics cream like Neosporin or Mupirocin. Drainage of the boil is done only when it becomes soft and forms a head. Take some over the counter pain reliever and consult a doctor for examination and antibiotics prescription. If you are sexually active then herpes should be ruled out.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.