rash only on legs for almo2months

i broke out in hives first.then i started to get big red bumps. they were full of white stuff. i have been picking at them all this time after .i still have them they are trying to go away.about how much longer will these things i have are called folliculitis.is it ok to go back to my gym and start my exercixing. or do i need to wait till they are completely gone.thank you dr

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on the skin. Folliculitis starts when hair follicles are damaged by friction from clothing or blockage of the follicle. In most cases of folliculitis, the damaged follicles are then infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus (staph).

Pls 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.Pls consult a dermatologist in that case.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or in case you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.