Which condition is characterized by the inflammation of hair follicles?

Folliculitis is the condition characterized by the inflammation of hair follicles. This inflammation can occur due to various factors, including bacterial or fungal infections, ingrown hairs, or irritation from friction or chemical products. The affected follicles can become red, swollen, and filled with pus, leading to discomfort and, in some cases, scarring if not properly treated.

Keloids, on the other hand, are raised overgrowths of scar tissue that form at the site of a healed skin injury, while seborrhea refers to the excessive secretion of oil from the sebaceous glands, leading to oily skin or dandruff. Alopecia is the condition characterized by hair loss and does not involve inflammation of hair follicles. Therefore, the indication of inflammation specifically identifies folliculitis as the correct condition in this context.