How a Scalp Pimple Develops and How to Treat It

Your pimples on head may often be treated with over-the-counter medications. However, if the acne persists, a doctor may need to prescribe medication.

Acne on the scalp types

Along your hairline, scalp folliculitis, often known as acne, is most typical. Small, itchy pimples may develop as a result of this illness. These pimples may sometimes swell and form a crust.

An acne spot on your scalp might be:

• Moderate, with whiteheads and blackheads, papules and pustules visible on the skin’s surface, are mild.

• Severe, with cysts and nodules embedded under the skin.

Chronic scarring and dark crusts may result from severe pimples on head (acne necrotic and dissecting cellulitis). If you have regular acne-producing bald patches, significant discomfort, or hair loss, speak to your doctor.

Many over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may be used to treat a pimples on head. But if the abscess persists or you think it could be anything worse, see a doctor.

What causes a scalp pimple to develop?

When pores or hair follicles get blocked, pimples develop. Sebum, a naturally occurring oil that keeps the skin hydrated, dead skin cells and bacteria may enter the pores and cause this. Acne may take many different shapes since the cells cannot leave the pore. More germs are present in more severe kinds of acne.

The following are examples of the organisms that cause this inflammation:

• P. acnes (Propionibacterium acnes)
• Epidermidis Staphylococcus
• Fungus
• Mites

Some causes of blocked pores could be:

• Accumulation of shampoo or other hair products, such as gel or hairspray
• Not cleaning the scalp with regular hair washing
• Putting off washing your hair after exercise
• Wearing a hat or another piece of headwear that rubs on your scalp

How are scalp acne lesions handled?

Preventing clogged pores is the key to curing pimples on head. Acne is brought on by oil accumulation and obstruction. Keep your scalp clean at all times. However, ensure your shampoo or conditioner isn’t the source of your scalp acne.

You can try different products if your shampoo or conditioner is causing the problem. For mild to moderate acne, look for products containing the following ingredients:

Salicylic acid (Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo): less effective than benzoyl peroxide in removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, preventing them from clogging pores and causing acne.

Glycolic acid, often known as “Aqua Glycolic,” aids skin exfoliation and eradicates microorganisms.

Shampoos for dandruff include antifungal ingredients such as ketoconazole or ciclopirox (Nizoral).

The antibacterial qualities of tea tree oil (Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Tingle) may aid in treating acne.

While adding jojoba oil (Majestic Pure) to your shampoo may not eliminate acne, it may help to lessen acne inflammation.

To prevent blocking your pores, use oil-based cosmetics sparingly. You may spend money on a sulphate-free clarifying shampoo (Ion) if you also use hair products like waxes, pomades, hair sprays, and clays. Clarifying shampoos clean your hair of grime, oil, and product buildup. This shampoo should be used sparingly since it might dry out your hair, particularly if it has undergone heat or colour treatment.

Drugs for the scalp

If OTC treatments don’t work or you start seeing hair loss, consult your doctor. To cure inflammation, you may need a prescription medication. If the condition is severe or chronic, your doctor could advise:

• Antibiotic cream or steroid cream
• Antibiotics and antihistamines are examples of oral drugs
• Harsh acne treatment with isotretinoin
• Light treatment
• Shots of steroids
• Physical removals to unclog pores

If you believe you are allergic to a product, stop using it.

Contact your doctor if your pimple does not improve after receiving acne therapy or appears to be something else.

It’s possible that another condition, like:

• A basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma is one kind of skin cancer.
• A deep abscess or infection
• Scales, redness, and dandruff are frequent symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
• A cyst

How long will it take for a pimple to heal?

Acne treatments often take four to eight weeks to start working. To stop recurrences, you may need to maintain treating the affected region. If you need to wash your hair regularly, dermatologists advise using a gentle, daily shampoo. You may use this in addition to an instant conditioner. Mild shampoos, according to studies, do not obstruct healthy hair development.

The fading of acne scars might take up to six months. It’s crucial to avoid picking at acne since doing so might result in more severe scarring. The bacterium could spread as a result.

Be careful while massaging your scalp as you continue to treat your acne. Avoid using your fingernails to scrub since doing so might irritate the skin and cause open sores.

Prevention suggestions

Acne may be prevented by identifying the cause (such as blocked pores) and changing one’s lifestyle. Additionally, it would help if you opted for products that won’t dry out your scalp or add too much buildup there. Wax, hair sprays, clays, and other hair products without certain chemicals and additives fall under this category.

Visit acne.org for a list of comedogenic substances. Compounds that are comedogenic are known to clog pores, particularly in those with sensitive skin. Sulphates and laureth-4 are two common comedogenic chemicals that may be found in shampoos and conditioners.

Scalp acne instances may be reduced by reducing scalp irritation.

Remember to wash your hair after exercising, using headgear, or engaging in any other activity that could have made you sweat. Cleaning your bedroom, including changing your pillows and removing your makeup (to avoid breakouts near the hairline), may also be helpful.

Diet and alopecia areata

According to one analysis on nutrition and acne, what you eat may impact acne, inflammation, and oil production. The American Academy of Dermatology does not advise relying only on dietary changes as a form of therapy.

Try reducing foods high in carbohydrates while boosting items with:

• A vitamin
• Nutrients D
• Fatty acids omega-3
• Fibre from food
• Antioxidants
• Zinc

Consider removing a specific item from your diet if you notice a flare-up occurs after eating it. To keep track of what you eat and when explosions happen, maintain a food journal.