Is it necessary to worry about just 1 infected follicle?

[mrcarrol]

Hey,

 

I'm six months out from my first procedure. I haven't had too many issues with pimples, but I couple of days ago I had my first one that was accompanied with a noticeable amount of pain.

 

I popped and drained it today, but there is still a dull ache at and around the site of the pimple. It's almost like a headache that feels like it extends into my temple and forehead area. I've never felt anything like this before so I'm just wondering if this might be cause for concern.

 

I've included a photo but it's not the greatest quality.

 

Thanks.

[Dr Blake Bloxham]

Mr Carol,

 

It looks like more of an "ingrown" situation, where a transplanted hair is trying to "pop" through the surface. This is often accompanied by an inflammatory type reaction that can appear like a little focused follicular infection, or it may even be a very focal/localized infection -- though this really isn't the way I'd describe it, nor would I really expect a true "infection" until after you popped it.

 

The area doesn't look obviously infected. Things to look out for would be: a lot of redness, swelling, continuous drainage, and general "sick" symptoms like fever, chills, fatigue, et cetera. The dull ache could be from the act of just pressing against the skin, or some pressure from inflammatory fluid -- which as I said above, can happen even in the absence of an infection.

 

Altogether, I think you should touch base with your clinic and make them aware. However, nothing looks overly concerning -- and I think they will likely tell you the same. But always discuss things like this with your doctor, and never rely solely on online advice. Otherwise, keep the area clean and monitor for any of the signs/symptoms I listed above.

 

Hope this helps! Keep us updated.

[gillenator]

I agree with Dr. Blake...looks more like an ingrown hair (pimple) and nothing to worry about and yes, definitely keep the area clean....

[mrcarrol]

Thank you both for your replies Dr. Bloxham and Gillenator. I've contacted my clinic and they have also told me it's just an ingrown hair. I am honestly quite paranoid when it comes to this whole infection thing, and I'm really grateful for the support of the folks on this forum.

Thanks again.