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Pimples on the face are a common occurrence. But when the same thing shows up on the scalp, it feels strange and can also cause discomfort. It’s hard to spot scalp acne, but you can feel it the moment you run a comb or even your fingers through your hair. Sometimes it’s just a small bump that you can ignore, and sometimes it gets itchy, sore, and quite irritating. It happens when the pores on your scalp get blocked with oil, sweat, or the products we keep using on our hair.
While some people experience scalp acne as rare occurrences, some struggle with recurrent acnes. If scalp acnes are bothering you, and you want to understand the cause of scalp acne, their symptoms and how to treat scalp acne, this blog is for you. Read further for insights from top dermatologists in Doddaballapur, Bangalore.
Synopsis
What is Scalp Acne?
Scalp acne is the term used when the pores and hair follicles on your head get clogged with oil, sweat, or dead skin cells. These clogged pores get infected by bacteria and turn into acne. The process is no different from the acne on the face, but the difference is that your hair hides the acne. So you notice it only when you touch your scalp or comb it.
Listed here are some common types of scalp acne:
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Red pimples (papules): small, sore bumps
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Whiteheads or blackheads: clogged pores with trapped oil.
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Pustules: pimples filled with pus.
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Cysts or nodules: deeper, painful lumps that may cause hair loss if left untreated.
Common Causes of Scalp Acne
Scalp acne is commonly caused by some sort of irritation to the scalp. Other causes include:
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Excessively oily scalp: Sebum or scalp oil when produced in excess, clogs the hair and skin follicles of the scalp, resulting in scalp acne breakouts.
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Irregular or delayed hair wash: Not washing your hair regularly, not exfoliating the scalp, or delaying hair wash after profuse sweating, traps dirt and clogs the pores, resulting in acne.
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Bacterial overgrowth: Germs like Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus attack clogged pores. Once they multiply, inflammation starts.
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Hair products: Heavy oils, styling gels, and sprays can leave residue on the scalp. This is sometimes called “pomade acne.”
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Hormonal changes: Puberty, menstrual cycles, or even stress can throw hormones off balance and make your scalp oilier.
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Helmets and hats: Constant friction, trapped heat, and sweat under tight headgear irritate the scalp.
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Environment: Humid weather and pollution can worsen clogged pores.
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Diet: High sugar foods and dairy are linked with breakouts in some people.
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Medications: Drugs like steroids may trigger or worsen acne on the scalp.
Symptoms and How to Identify Scalp Acne
Scalp acne isn’t always easy to spot because your hair hides most of it. It can feel like hard painful lumps. The bumps feel itchy, sore, or uncomfortable when you try to comb or wash your hair. They could also be there without causing any discomfort. Scalp acne can also be mistaken for dandruff, but the main difference is the tenderness in the lump.
Here are some of the symptoms of scalp acne that help you differentiate them from dandruff:
to watch out for:
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Small red bumps or pimples that are tender to touch
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Whiteheads or blackheads sitting on the scalp
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Pus-filled pimples (pustules) that may ooze if scratched
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Painful lumps or nodules deeper under the skin, which can last longer
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Itching or burning on the scalp, especially after sweating
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In severe cases, you might even see patches of hair loss around the acne spots
Scalp Acne Treatment Options
Scalp acne treatment depends on how severe your breakouts are and the cause of breakouts. Sometimes it’s common to get one or two acne on the scalp. These mild cases can often be managed with over-the-counter shampoos. But having many pimples on the head should be treated by a dermatologist.
Here are the main treatment options:
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Using medicated shampoos: These shampoos are made of scalp-friendly ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, ketoconazole, or zinc pyrithione, which can help keep the pores unclogged, control sebum secretion, and also kill bacteria. With With regular usage, these shampoos significantly reduce the frequency of scalp acne breakouts and may even prevent them altogether.
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Topical antibiotics: Creams or gels with clindamycin or erythromycin may be prescribed to fight bacterial growth on the scalp.
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Benzoyl peroxide washes: These should only be used with a dermatologist's recommendation. Although benzoyl peroxide washes are commonly prescribed for acne on the face and back, they may also be used for scalp acne in diluted versions.
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Topical retinoids: In severe cases, retinoids like adapalene or tretinoin may be prescribed to regulate oil production and keep pores clear.
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Oral medications: When scalp acne are severe or the cystic type, in addition to topical applicants your doctors may suggest suitable oral antibiotics or hormonal medicines.
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Corticosteroid injections: These are used only for very large, painful pimples to quickly reduce inflammation.
Home Remedies for Scalp Acne
Not every case of scalp acne needs strong medicines. Here are some home remedies for scalp acne that are mild:
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Tea tree oil: It is used for its antibacterial properties. Add a few drops to your regular shampoo to help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation.
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Aloe vera gel: Fresh aloe feels cooling and can calm down redness and itchiness on the scalp.
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Apple cider vinegar rinse: Dilute it with water and use it after shampooing. It balances the scalp’s pH and may help control bacterial growth.
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Warm compress: Pressing a clean, warm towel on sore pimples for a few minutes can ease pain and open up clogged pores.
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Green tea extract: Rinsing with cooled green tea or using products that contain it may reduce oil and soothe the scalp.
Conclusion
While mild scalp acnes can be managed with simple home remedies and proper scalp hygiene, for severe acne breakouts it is important to consult your dermatologist for proper topical ot systemic medications. Our dermatologists at Manipal Hospital, Doddaballapura, can offer advice and advanced scalp acne treatment options.
