Which of the following conditions is characterized by inflammation of the hair follicles?

The condition characterized by inflammation of the hair follicles is folliculitis. Folliculitis occurs when hair follicles become infected or inflamed, often due to bacteria, fungi, or irritation. The inflammation can result in red, swollen bumps around the hair follicles, which may be itchy or painful. This condition can occur anywhere on the body where hair is present, and it is commonly seen in areas that experience friction or moisture.

Understanding folliculitis is integral for recognizing effective treatments and managing the condition. Alopecia refers to hair loss and does not involve inflammation of the follicles. Scabies is a skin infestation caused by a mite, leading to intense itching but primarily affecting the skin rather than the follicles themselves. Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation, which can involve multiple causes and effects but doesn't specifically target hair follicles as a primary concern. Therefore, the focus on the inflammation of hair follicles distinctly identifies folliculitis as the correct answer.