How To Cure Pimple On Head
How do I get rid of scalp acne? – Treatment for scalp acne varies based on what causes your hair follicles to clog. You can treat pimples on your scalp at home if your symptoms are mild by:
Not using hair care products that contain oil, leave a residue in your hair or are greasy. Washing your hair more often, especially after you sweat. Not wearing headbands or tight-fitting hats. Choose helmets with ventilation that are properly fitted to your head.
If you have persistent, moderate or severe scalp acne, treatment could include taking or using:
Topical or oral antibiotics to clear bacteria from your hair follicles. Topical steroids to treat folliculitis. Oral isotretinoin to treat long-term scalp acne. Oral antihistamines to reduce symptoms of itchiness.
You can rub topical medications on your skin in the same way you’d rub lotion on your skin. You can take oral medications by mouth according to your provider’s instructions. Talk to your healthcare provider about the side effects of each medication before starting it. Also, tell your provider about the supplements and medications you currently take to avoid drug interactions.
Contents
What causes pimples on scalp?
Acne is less common on the scalp than on other areas of the body. However, pimples on the scalp can be just as troublesome. Clogged pores often cause pimples on the scalp or scalp acne, Keeping the hair and scalp clean and using medicated shampoos can help treat the condition.
- This article looks at how a person can identify scalp acne, what causes scalp acne to develop, and discusses the ways a person can treat and prevent this condition.
- Scalp acne refers to the pimples and breakouts that develop on the scalp or hairline.
- Scalp acne can develop when hair follicles become clogged by a buildup of dead skin cells or excess sebum, which can lead to inflammation in the hair follicle.
Sebum is the natural oil produced by sebaceous glands to form a protective barrier on the skin. A person’s pores can also get clogged if they do not wash their hair frequently or they regularly wear headgear that causes friction against the scalp. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) notes that some people may develop bumps or pimples on their scalp when using certain shampoos, conditioners, or hairsprays.
fungus mites Staphylococcus epidermidis Propionibacterium acnes
A person may need a topical, medicated treatment for their scalp acne. Medicated topical products for scalp acne can be bought without a prescription. Common ingredients in these products may include:
Salicylic acid : This is a common ingredient used in skin care products to fight acne. Salicylic acid helps to clear dead skin cells by breaking down the bonds between them. Glycolic acid: This acid can help exfoliate the scalp and remove dead skin cells, bacteria, and sebum. Ketoconazole: An antifungal agent, ketoconazole is used to treat red or scaly skin. Ciclopirox: Ciclopirox is an antifungal agent used to treat skin infections and is often added to dandruff shampoos Benzoyl peroxide: An antibacterial ingredient, benzoyl peroxide helps to eliminate the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, which can be present in scalp acne.
For persistent scalp acne and symptoms such as hair loss and inflammation, a person can consider discussing the following treatments with a doctor:
topical antibiotic ointmentssteroid injectionsoral antibiotics antihistamines for allergic reactionsphototherapy, also called light therapy specific medications for severe acne, such as isotretinoin
Learn more about antibiotics for acne. A person with scalp acne should only use one type of scalp treatment at a time unless otherwise directed by a doctor. In doing this, it will be easier for a person to track the effectiveness of individual products against their scalp acne.
Scalp acne can vary in its appearance. Sometimes, scalp acne can resemble small pimples or zits on the scalp. These spots can develop on the back of the head and may feel itchy and sore. In other cases, a person may develop pimples along their hairline or have painful bumps or cysts under the skin. Pimples on the scalp occur when a pore or hair follicle gets clogged with dead skin cells or sebum.
Bacteria, yeast, or mites can also get into the pores and cause a reaction. Factors that can cause scalp acne include:
dead skin cells or oil clogging the folliclesa buildup of products, such as hair gels, leave-in treatments, or hairspraynot washing the hair thoroughly enoughwaiting too long after a workout to wash the hairsweating while wearing a head covering, especially if it causes friction
Specific germs that may cause pimples on the scalp include:
Yeasts from the Malassezia family Cutibacterium Staphylococcus epidermidis Propionibacterium acnes Staphylococcus aureus Demodex folliculorum
A person’s diet may also be linked to acne. A study published in Advances in Dermatology and Allergology suggests that a diet high in sugary carbohydrates may increase the risk of acne. The AAD states that people with scalp acne may notice that they have:
tiny bumps along the hairline, on the forehead, or at the back of the neckwhiteheads on the scalp or hairlineclosely packed bumpsbumps on the scalp that are painful
Some people may also develop bumps that they can feel but are unable to see. Scalp hygiene plays an essential role in avoiding clogged pores. A person can try washing their hair whenever it starts to feel oily and after every workout. To treat scalp acne and prevent further flare-ups, a person can consider:
wearing looser-fitting headgear to let the scalp breathewashing hair soon after exerciseavoiding using too many hair products, such as hairsprays and gelseating a diet that can help boost skin health keeping a food diary to see if certain foods cause flare-ups if a person thinks their diet may be causing scalp acneswitching to natural, hypoallergenic hair care products.
Learn more about the best shampoos for scalp acne. For some people, washing their hair infrequently can cause scalp acne. For other people, washing their hair too often can strip the skin of protective sebum, which may increase the risk of scalp irritation.
Mild: This usually includes whiteheads and blackheads, which are clogged pores in the skin. Moderate: Individuals with moderate scalp acne may have a higher number of inflamed pimples, called papules, that are visible on the skin’s surface. A person may also have pustules, which are filled with pus. Severe: A person with severe acne will have more papules and pustules, and the scalp can develop nodules and cysts, which can be painful.
Learn more about common types of skin bumps. There are a number of reasons why bumps and pimples might appear on the scalp, which can make it more difficult to identify scalp acne. These reasons can include:
Scalp folliculitis: Scalp folliculitis is a related condition where bacteria, yeast infections, or ingrown hairs on the scalp cause the hair follicles to become infected and inflamed. This can result in itchy red bumps that can vary in size. Seborrheic dermatitis: Seborrheic dermatitis is a common condition that causes dandruff and often leaves the scalp red and scaly. Picking at the area can cause additional injury, leading to marks that resemble pimples. Pilar cysts: Pilar cysts are hard bumps filled with keratin that form near the hair root. Unlike scalp acne, these bumps usually do not have a white head.
In other cases, bumps on the scalp may be a sign of cancerous cells, such as squamous cell carcinoma, A person should consider seeing a doctor if they think they have pimples on their scalp. A person may also consider seeking medical advice if they notice any signs of infection in any of their scalp pimples, such as pain, inflammation, or pus.
Learn more about the signs of an infected pimple. A person may wish to make a note of any hair products they are using in case they might be the cause of their scalp acne. The AAD states that when a person’s scalp acne is caused by skin or hair care products, the scalp acne can go away on its own after the individual stops using the products.
Pimples on the scalp are relatively common and are treated in a similar way to acne on other parts of the body. When treating scalp acne, a dermatologist will often recommend topical medications, which may include daily medicated shampoos. A person can try taking preventive measures to improve their scalp acne, such as changing their hair care products or increasing or decreasing the amount they wash their hair overall.
How long can a pimple last on scalp?
How long will it take for a scalp breakout to clear up? As with most skin treatments, clearing up your head acne probably won’t happen overnight, so patience is key. ‘You should notice fewer new pimples and the old ones starting to clear in about six to eight weeks,’ says Dr. Clay-Ramsey.
Is it OK to have a pimple on your scalp?
What questions should I ask my doctor? –
Are there side effects to the treatment? What type of shampoo do you recommend? What do I do if my acne comes back? Did an underlying condition cause my scalp acne?
A note from Cleveland Clinic Pimples on your scalp can be a challenge to your skin care routine. Determining the cause of your scalp acne involves a lot of trial and error to see if the products you’re using are clogging your pores or if there’s an underlying cause of your symptoms.
Do hair pimples go away?
While the acne-like breakouts of folliculitis tend to go away on their own, it can feel unsettling to suddenly see these appear on your skin. A board-certified dermatologist can tell you whether you have folliculitis and help you feel more comfortable.
Can scalp pimples cause hair loss?
However in more serious cases, if not treated, scalp acne can lead to a scaring condition known as scarring alopecia. It arises when inflammation on the scalp scars the tissue and as a result destructs the hair follicle. This disrupts the hair growth cycle and leads to irreversible hair loss when hair cannot regrow.
Will a pimple with a head go away on its own?
Can I pop a pimple if I can see the white part? – Dan* It’s tempting, but popping or squeezing a pimple won’t necessarily get rid of the problem. Squeezing can push and pus deeper into the skin, which might cause more swelling and redness. Squeezing also can lead to scabs and might leave you with permanent pits or scars,
Because popping isn’t the way to go, patience is the key. Your pimple will disappear on its own, and by leaving it alone you’re less likely to be left with any reminders that it was there. To dry a pimple up faster, apply 5% benzoyl peroxide gel or cream once or twice a day. You can find these over-the-counter treatments at most drugstores, grocery stores, and other stores that sell skin-care products.
If you’re concerned about acne, talk to your doctor or a dermatologist. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. Date reviewed: October 2018
What are stress bumps on head?
Stress rashes often appear as raised red bumps called hives. They can affect any part of the body, but often a stress rash is on the face, neck, chest or arms. Hives may range from tiny dots to large welts and may form in clusters. They may be itchy or cause a burning or tingling sensation.
What is a lump on your head?
A cyst or lipoma A pilar cyst is a flat, flesh-colored lump that can develop on the scalp. Filled with keratin—a protein found in hair, skin and nails—a pilar cyst is not harmful, but it can be easily irritated by brushing or combing the hair.
Should I be worried about a pimple on my head?
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process, Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm? Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence? Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Using over-the-counter products can generally treat your scalp pimples. However, if the acne is persistent, you may need prescribed medication from a doctor. Acne on the scalp, or scalp folliculitis, is most common along your hairline.
mild, includes blackheads and whiteheadsmoderate, includes papules and pustules, which appear on the skin’s surfacesevere, includes nodules and cysts, which are imbedded under the skin
Severe scalp acne (acne necrotica and dissecting cellulitis) can develop blackened crusts and leave permanent scars. Contact your doctor if you are experiencing persistent acne that’s causing hair loss, bald patches, or severe pain. You can treat a pimple on your scalp with many over-the-counter (OTC) products.
But visit your doctor if the pimple lingers or you suspect it might be something else. Pimples occur when pores, or hair follicles, get clogged. This can occur when dead skin cells, naturally occurring oil that keeps the skin moisturized (sebum), and bacteria enter the pores. The cells cannot exit the pore, which results in acne in a variety of forms.
More severe forms of acne contain more bacteria. The types of organisms that cause this inflammation include:
Propionibacterium acnes ( P. acnes ) Staphylococcus epidermidis fungusmites
Reasons for clogged pores may include:
product buildup from shampoo or other hair products, such as gel or hairspraynot washing hair frequently enough to clean scalpwaiting too long to wash your hair after a workoutwearing a hat or other headgear or equipment that’s caused friction against your scalp
The key to treating scalp acne is to prevent your pores from clogging. It’s the oil blockage and buildup that causes acne. Keeping your scalp clean is important. But you’ll want to make sure your shampoo or conditioner isn’t causing your scalp acne. If you suspect your shampoo or conditioner is causing the issue, you may consider trying some new products.
salicylic acid ( Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo ): exfoliates dead skin cells so they do not enter pores and cause acne, but less effective than benzoyl peroxide glycolic acid ( Aqua Glycolic ): helps with exfoliation and kills micro bacteria ketoconazole or ciclopirox ( Nizoral ) : antifungal agents in antidandruff shampoos tea tree oil ( Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Tingle ): antibacterial properties may help fight acne jojoba oil ( Majestic Pure ): may not get rid of acne, but adding to your shampoo may help reduce acne inflammation
Use oil-based products in moderation to avoid clogging your pores. If you also use hair products like waxes, pomades, hair sprays, and clays, you may want to invest in a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo ( Ion ). Clarifying shampoos remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair.
Why do I get painful bumps on my scalp?
If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Bumps on the scalp can be caused by a number of things, from infections to various skin conditions. And, for many, they’re typically easy to treat and clear up quickly. In order to figure out what treatment you need for your scalp discomfort, you first need to get to the bottom of what’s causing these bumps.
9 Home Remedies For A Blind Pimple
Read on to learn about the most common scalp conditions that cause bumps on your head, including how to get rid of them. Bumps can develop on the scalp for many reasons, including skin conditions, infections, fungus, and allergies. Most of these causes are harmless and require minimal to no treatment.
However, some conditions require expert guidance from a medical professional. Folliculitis is a common skin infection that causes small pimple-like bumps to form in hair follicles on the body and scalp. It’s usually the result of a fungal or bacterial infection, such as the staph aureus bacteria. However, it can also be triggered by physical irritation, hot tubs, shaving or plucking, and certain medications ( Winters, 2022 ).
While uncomfortable, folliculitis isn’t contagious and should go away on its own. If your folliculitis doesn’t improve on its own within a few days, a dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the rash. In the meantime, you can try warm compresses several times a day to help soothe your skin.
- Avoiding wearing tight clothing that rubs against your skin
- Wearing breathable fabrics
- Changing clothes following exercise
- Using proper technique when shaving
- Applying topical medications in the direction your hair grows
Can scalp pimples cause hair loss?
However in more serious cases, if not treated, scalp acne can lead to a scaring condition known as scarring alopecia. It arises when inflammation on the scalp scars the tissue and as a result destructs the hair follicle. This disrupts the hair growth cycle and leads to irreversible hair loss when hair cannot regrow.
How do you unclog your pores on your scalp?
Treating Clogged Hair Follicles: Expert Tricks And Tips Clogged hair follicles, also known as folliculitis, occur when the hair follicles become blocked with oil, dead skin cells, and other debris. They can be a frustrating and unsightly problem for many people.
- Pimple-like bumps or redness on the scalp
- Itching or burning sensation
- Flaking or dandruff-like build-up
- Pain or tenderness when touching the affected area
- Inflammation or swelling of the hair follicles
- Drainage of pus or other fluids from the bumps
- in the affected area
There are several causes of blocked hair follicles, including
- Oily skin
- Dead skin cells
- Bacterial infection
- Hormonal changes
- Cosmetics
- Shaving or waxing
- Certain medical conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
- Genetic predisposition
Blocked hair follicles can appear as small, red, pus-filled bumps on the skin. They can be tender to the touch and may be itchy. Some blocked hair follicles may also feel warm or be accompanied by a burning sensation. In severe cases, the bumps may become larger and form into abscesses (pus-filled lumps) that are painful and may need to be drained by a healthcare provider.
- Constant itching, redness, and other symptoms of blocked hair follicles can be distressing and can also affect one’s self-esteem and psychological well-being.
- Blocked hair follicles can be treated in several ways, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. The treatment options include
- Topical creams or ointments : Antibiotic or antifungal creams can be used to treat bacterial or fungal infections of the hair follicles.
- Oral antibiotics : Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections that are severe or widespread.
- Laser hair removal : Laser hair removal can help reduce the number of hair follicles and the risk of infection.
- Hot compress : A hot compress can be applied to the affected area to help unclog the hair follicles.
- Exfoliation : Exfoliating the skin can help remove dead skin cells and unclog the hair follicles.
To prevent clogged hair follicles, it is important to maintain a regular hair-washing routine, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using styling products that contain heavy oils or waxes. Also learn how to open hair pores on the head with simple and natural methods such as exfoliating the scalp, using warm compresses, and incorporating herbal remedies.
- Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein to support healthy hair growth.
- Stay hydrated
- Use a gentle sulphate-free
- Avoid heat styling
- Brush your hair gently
- Massage the scalp: Massaging the scalp can improve blood flow, promote healthy hair growth, and prevent clogged hair follicles.
- Avoid tight hairstyles
- Be mindful of the hair products you are using
In conclusion, folliculitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor hygiene, excessive oil production, and certain skin conditions. Several natural methods can be used to reopen closed hair follicles. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect that an underlying medical condition may be causing the blocked hair follicles.
- Scalp exfoliation: Gently exfoliate the scalp with a mixture of sugar, olive oil, and honey.
- Hot oil treatment: Applying warm oil to the scalp, such as coconut or castor oil, can help to soften and loosen any buildup in the follicles, making it easier to remove.
- Herbal remedies: Using herbal remedies such as tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and rosemary oil can help to unclog the follicles
Q2. Are clogged hair follicles contagious? No, they are not contagious. However, certain types of folliculitis, such as bacterial or fungal, can be contagious and can spread through close contact or sharing of personal items.