Folliculitis vs Impetigo

How to tell the difference — key features compared side by side.

Feature
Folliculitis
Impetigo
Category
Common
Common
Key feature
Infected or inflamed hair follicles causing red, tender bumps. Common from shaving, tight clothing, or hot tubs.
Highly contagious bacterial skin infection in children. Causes honey-colored crusted sores that spread by touch.
Risk factors
Shaving (razor bumps); Tight clothing causing friction; Hot tub or pool use
Childhood (ages 2-5 most common); Warm, humid climate; Crowded living conditions (daycare, schools)
Action needed
Folliculitis that does not improve in 1-2 weeks
Honey-colored crusted sores, especially in a child

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is inflammation or infection of hair follicles, presenting as small red or white-headed bumps or pustules clustered around hair follicles. It can occur anywhere hair grows but is most common on the face (shaving area), scalp, thighs, buttocks, and trunk.

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Impetigo

Impetigo is a common, highly contagious bacterial skin infection most frequently seen in children aged 2-5 years. It is caused primarily by Staphylococcus aureus and less commonly by group A Streptococcus.

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Does yours look more like folliculitis?

Quick self-check

Does this look like folliculitis? Answer 2 questions.

Are there small bumps or pustules centered around hair follicles?

Is it in an area of shaving, friction, or recent hot tub use?

Still not sure?

Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria dermatologists use.

Full ABCDE check →