Which disorder is characterized primarily by the infection of hair follicles?

Folliculitis is specifically defined as the inflammation of hair follicles, often caused by infection. When bacteria, fungi, or viruses invade the hair follicle, it leads to the characteristic symptoms of redness, swelling, and sometimes pus formation. This condition can arise from factors such as friction, moisture, or exposure to irritants that compromise the hair follicles. Recognizing the direct relationship between follicle infection and the symptoms of folliculitis helps in identifying this disorder effectively.

In contrast, the other conditions listed involve different aspects. Paronychia pertains to the infection of the tissue around the nail rather than the hair follicles. Boils, while they can involve hair follicles, are typically larger, painful lumps and are more about localized infections that form in deeper tissues, often associated with a single follicle. Tinea Unguium, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection specifically affecting the nails, distinct from conditions affecting hair follicles. Understanding these distinctions is essential in the field of beauty therapy and for effective treatment planning.