Follicular eczema is a type of eczema that affects hair follicles. The exact cause is unknown, but over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription treatments are available.

Follicular eczema is a type of atopic dermatitis (AD). This common skin condition causes dry, inflamed patches of skin that involve itchiness and erythema. Erythema is when the skin becomes red or discolored.

AD occurs when your skin’s outer layer (skin barrier) becomes damaged and cannot fully protect you from external threats, like irritants, bacteria, and allergies.

But in follicular eczema, symptoms affect the hair follicles, the small holes from which hair grows.

Keep reading to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of follicular eczema.

Follicular eczema is often considered a type of papular eczema.

In papular eczema, the most common symptoms are small bumps or lumps that develop around the hair follicle. These bumps may look like acne or goosebumps that won’t go away.

You may also experience hair that stands on end, as well as inflammation and skin discoloration.

Some research suggests that follicular eczema is more common in people with darker skin tones. Small bumps may have a purple- or gray-like appearance that may be harder to see. In people with lighter skin tones, these bumps may appear pink or red.

Other common symptoms of AD may include:

  • a rash on the face, hands, feet, arms, or legs
  • itching
  • cracked, dry, or scaly skin
  • blistering, oozing, or crusty sores

The exact cause of follicular or papular eczema isn’t known. But researchers have identified several factors that may be linked with AD.

For instance, mutations of genes involved in skin production and the immune system may raise your risk of AD.

Other risk factors may include:

Limited research has examined the triggers for follicular eczema specifically. But several irritants have been identified that may trigger or worsen symptoms of eczema. These may include:

  • chemicals in products like soap, detergent, shampoo, cologne and perfume, surface cleaners, etc.
  • sweating
  • stress
  • hormonal changes
  • changes in weather
  • bacteria in your environment, such as certain kinds of fungus
  • allergens, such as pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, etc.

Learn more about 10 common eczema triggers.

A healthcare professional like a dermatologist can provide a diagnosis of follicular eczema.

In most cases, they can diagnose follicular eczema by visually examining your symptoms. They may also ask you questions about your symptoms, such as when they started and if they appear after particular triggers.

Sometimes, a doctor may perform a skin patch test to help determine whether allergies or irritants cause your symptoms.

Although there’s currently no cure for follicular eczema, several at-home remedies and treatments are available to help ease symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Home remedies

Several self-care remedies may help relieve active flare-ups of follicular eczema and AD, including:

  • placing a warm, clean washcloth on the affected area
  • soaking the affected area in warm water
  • taking an oatmeal bath or bleach bath
  • taking certain supplements
  • applying moisturizer immediately after removing the cloth or exiting the bath
  • keeping your skin moisturized with fragrance-free moisturizers (at least once daily)
  • wearing loose-fitting clothes

Medical treatments

If home remedies alone don’t help relieve symptoms of follicular eczema, a healthcare professional may recommend OTC treatments.

These usually include ointments, creams, gels, and moisturizers to help relieve itching, inflammation, and dry skin.

In more severe cases, a doctor may recommend:

Learn more about treatment options for AD.

Researchers haven’t identified whether it’s possible to prevent follicular eczema from developing. But there are some things you can do to help prevent eczema flare-ups.

These may include:

  • moisturizing daily, especially after showering, bathing, or swimming
  • limiting your exposure to triggers
  • eating a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
  • managing stress, such as by doing yoga, exercising, and writing in a journal
  • trying wet wrap therapy

Follicular eczema is a type of AD that affects the hair follicles. It usually causes small, itchy bumps on the skin.

Speak with a healthcare professional if you think you’re experiencing symptoms of follicular eczema. They could recommend seeing a dermatologist, who can evaluate your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan for you.

Not everyone will respond to treatment in the same way. If your symptoms persist or become worse, a dermatologist can suggest different treatment options.