Will folliculitis with pus and blood discharge heal on its own?

Jul 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've recently had a recurrence of folliculitis on my thigh, and now the pustules are discharging pus and blood. Can folliculitis that discharges pus and blood heal on its own?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
The self-healing ability of folliculitis with pus and blood discharge varies depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, when the body's immunity is strong and there is no obvious secondary infection in the local skin area, folliculitis with pus and blood may gradually heal through the body's immune regulation. At this time, maintaining local cleanliness and dryness, avoiding squeezing or scratching the affected area, can help promote recovery. In most cases, folliculitis with pus and blood discharge will not heal on its own, especially when the condition is severe, such as widespread inflammation of multiple hair follicles, formation of boils or carbuncles, accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and chills. Prompt medical attention and professional treatment are required. Treatment methods include oral or injectable antibiotics to eliminate the infecting bacteria, local disinfection and debridement, and surgical intervention such as incision and drainage when necessary.