Folliculitis begins as a red, tender area at or near the base of one or more strands of hair. It turns into a small, raised area of skin that contains pus (pustule) and often itches or burns. When these pustules break open, they may drain pus and/or blood.

The pustules that develop with deep folliculitis are usually larger, more painful, and longer-lasting than those from mild (superficial) folliculitis. Deep folliculitis can also lead to other skin infections that generally cause more pain and discomfort, such as a boil (furuncle) or carbuncle. Carbuncles may also cause a fever and make you feel ill.

"Hot tub folliculitis" typically appears about 72 hours after you have been in a hot tub or spa. Many small pustules appear on your torso and sometimes your arms and legs. You may have a mild fever and feel ill. This type of folliculitis usually goes away on its own within 7 to 10 days.

Some people get razor bumps. These are not folliculitis. Razor bumps are most common in African Americans and people with tightly coiled hair. They develop after the person shaves, when strands of hair curl back on themselves, grow into the skin, cause irritation, and make pimples.

Other skin conditions that cause symptoms similar to folliculitis include poison ivy, acne, and heat rash.