I shaved about a week ago and now my hair is growing back. And now I have these bumps that appeared today as well as with another ingrown hair bump...and swollen nodes...I want to make sure they aren’t herpes.
Hi,
Blisters can sometimes be caused by either a virus (herpes) or a bacteria (germ). If the condition has not resolved, or if it recurs, please visit a local dermatologist who may culture the blister fluid to determine the exact cause.
Steve Schleicher, MD
Hi! I reviewed your image and question. Although a bit blurry, the grouped nature of this eruption is suggestive of a herpetic outbreak. Inflammation from an inflamed follicle, trauma due to shaving, and other mechanical irritation can induce a flare. My suggestion is to see a dermatologist and request a culture for herpes simplex and ask for it to be typed HSVI and HSVII. If this is an older image and the eruption is now clear, ask for a blood test called a Herpes Select HSVI and HSVII antibody profile. Don't worry, if this is herpes related, it is highly treatable and highly suppressible. Some bacterial infections can mimic a herpetic outbreak as well so an in-office evaluation for additional testing would be necessary in your case. I hope that you find this information helpful. Best regards!
You need to make an appointment with a dermatologist for evaluation and management.
Kaminska Dermatology Care Team