Folliculitis: This is the most common cause of inflamed follicles without infection, often resulting from irritation, ingrown hairs, or blockage of the follicle. It can occur anywhere on the body with hair follicles.

Keratosis Pilaris: A condition characterized by the formation of small, rough, sandpapery bumps on the skin due to keratin buildup in the hair follicles. It's common on the arms, thighs, and buttocks.
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB): Also known as razor bumps, this condition occurs mainly in the beard area of men who shave, caused by ingrown hairs and curly hair that grows back into the skin.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Can sometimes present with follicular inflammation, especially in the context of atopic dermatitis affecting the face or neck.

Cutaneous Lymphoma: Although rare, certain types of cutaneous lymphoma can present with follicular-based lesions. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences due to the potential for malignancy.
Discoid Lupus Erythematosus: An autoimmune condition that can cause skin lesions, including those that might resemble inflamed follicles, particularly on the face and scalp.
Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause skin lesions, including those affecting the hair follicles, and can be mistaken for other dermatological conditions.

Follicular Mucinosis: A rare condition characterized by the accumulation of mucin within the hair follicles, leading to their inflammation. It can be associated with cutaneous lymphoma or other systemic diseases.
Eosinophilic Pustular Folliculitis (EPF): A rare skin condition characterized by recurring, itchy, pus-filled bumps, primarily on the face, back, and arms, associated with eosinophilia.
Lichen Planopilaris: An inflammatory condition that leads to hair loss and can cause follicular inflammation, particularly on the scalp.