topicals or no topicals for folliculitis?

I saw on a forum someone said using no topicals helped clear up their folliculitis because it unclogged their pores but then I hear it is important to use a body wash to get rid of bacteria.. what would be best? anyone try not using body wash or topicals? did it help or get worse? I use health basics dermaplus soothe. would getting a shower filter help? any tips for getting rid of folliculitis would be welcome. I feel it's destroying my life and self confidence.