What is the general term for a harmful bacterial infection of the skin?

The term "folliculitis" specifically refers to the inflammation or infection of hair follicles, often due to bacteria. It typically manifests as red bumps or pus-filled blisters and can occur anywhere hair grows, making it a common skin condition. This type of infection is caused by pathogens, and it can be characterized by discomfort, itching, and even pain.

On the other hand, dermatitis denotes inflammation of the skin that could be triggered by various factors such as allergies or irritants, rather than a bacterial infection. The term "infection" is much more general and does not specifically denote bacterial involvement or target any particular area, while "pathogenic" refers more broadly to the qualities of germs that can cause disease and lacks specificity regarding skin conditions. Thus, folliculitis is the most accurate choice when discussing a harmful bacterial infection localized in the skin.