Bacteria on the skin can contribute towards infection of one or more hair follicles. A hair follicle is a part of skin or connective tissue that regulates hair growth. There are 3 different kinds of infections that are triggered with ulceration in follicles:

• Folliculitis: State of inflammation of a hair follicle.
• Furuncle(Boil): This is a form of infection of the hair follicle that settles deeper into the layers of skin. A small pile of white-yellow color pus (abscess) forms which is also known as a boil.
• Carbuncle: This is characterized by cluster of ulcerated hair follicles with pus. A carbuncle is bigger and deeper than a furuncle.

One disturbing element about these skin infections is that these can appear anywhere on the skin where there is hair. The main cause of trigger is accumulation of excessive sweat and rubbing. It happens most often at the back of the neck, armpits, waist, groin, buttocks or face.

Bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus (staph) is the most common cause of folliculitis, furuncles, and carbuncles in a child, while anyone can be at a risk to develop these contagion. Children may be more at risk if he or she

• Has close contact with someone with furuncle, carbuncle or skin abscess
• Has skin injuries, such as insect bites, cuts or scrapes
• Has weak immune system or other skin infections Is getting IV medicine
• Has bathe in untreated hot tub or spa water
• A single or group of skin lesions that are red, swollen, warm, leaky (pus) and painful indicate these infection. Affected person may also feel fever and chills with low blood pressure and fast heart beat.