Hey Doctor, I’ve Developed This Pimple/possibly Boil On My Waistline

Posted on Sat, 3 Nov 2018

Question: Hey doctor,

I’ve developed this pimple/possibly boil on my waistline just above my pubic area. I got it Tuesday night after work All of a sudden and it’s been super annoying since. I have attached an image of it to give you an idea of what it is. What can I do to treat this it’s really irritating because it’s in the exact same spot as my underpants, I tried putting a bandaid with cotton ball attached underneath which kind of helps but it still is uncomfortable. What’s the best way to stop irritation and get rid of it and what do you think it is?

Follow up: Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (4 minutes later)

I’ve been washing it with acne sacrylic acid soap which has done nothing at all, I’ve also been trying tea tree oil which has one nothing either

Answered by Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Folliculitis, antibiotic ointment needed.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear XXXXXXX welcome to Ask a doctor service.
I read your query and here is my advice.
I see the picture you have attached and it is folliculitis an infection of hair root possibly favorised by shaving.
Don't use salicylic acid anymore.
Just wash it with soap and water.
Use worm compresses in order to drain it.
Can use antibiotic ointment like fusidin or tetracycline or gentamicine and bethametazon ointment.
Avoid friction with clothes that may irritate it more.
I don't recommend you put a plaster over it at all.
Hope I have answered the question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (18 hours later)

Thanks for that doctor would I need to get the ointment from the doctor? Can the infection spread to other parts of the body I also noticed one on the back of my leg as well? I don’t really shave and hadn’t shaved in the area but it was pretty long the hairs could too much sweat and friction also cause it? Would I be able to use antiseptic cream such as Detol or anti bacterial soap as well or only the antibiotic ointment?

Follow up: Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (1 minute later)

I’m also noticing the head of the pimple getting much whiter and larger in diameter and it looks as if there’s a black hair threading around it would that be the hair not being grown properly?

Answered by Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Infection of hear root.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again dear, you can use prescription ointment but also can find antibiotic ointment over the counter.
I don't think detol cream can be effective.
Use antibacterial soap.
The hair on it is an ingrown hair and the pimple is folliculitis an infection of hair root.
The white pimple shows that it is bacterial infection.
It can be spread in other parts of body. It is favorised from sweating and friction.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng