Scalp pimples are fairly frequent, but they can generally be cleared up by making a few changes to your hair regimen. Acne on the scalp is less prevalent than on other parts of the body, yet it can be just as bothersome. If you have pimples on back of head, you can also get typical acne around your hairline.
Pimples on back of head, also known as scalp acne, are frequently caused by clogged pores. The problem can be treated by keeping the hair clean and using medicated shampoos.
What does the Scalp acne look like?
A healthy scalp should be free of flakes, irritation, or redness, and dryness, as well as any evidence of infection or disruption of the scalp’s skin. scalp acne are Tiny bumps on the back of your neck or on your forehead. Scalp acne is characterized by small bumps that you may feel but not see or small bumps that are packed together and visible as pimples on back of head and other areas near hairline. other scalp acne might appear like:
- Bumps on your scalp or hairline that are flesh-colored
- Whiteheads on the scalp or around the hairline
- Deep cysts under your skin that don’t have a head
- Headache-inducing bumps
Causes of Scalp Acne
- Clogged pores on the scalp generate pimples. Acne can be caused by a buildup of skin oils and dead skin cells. Hair care products that block pores are another culprit that could cause pimples on back of head.
- An increase of acne bacteria or inflammation in the obstructed hair follicle can trigger acne on the scalp.
- Hair follicles and oil glands abound on your scalp. Acne can develop when the follicle or pore becomes clogged with debris and oil. Even if you have adequate hygiene, sweat, oil, and filth buildup from poor or partial cleaning can cause clogged pores on your scalp.
- Hair care treatments containing heavy components, such as oils, might cause scalp outbreaks. However, you might want to reconsider your hair-care regimen. Shampoo, and hairsprays leave residue on your scalp and clog your pores, causing a lot of scalp pimples. Hair product-induced scalp acne is so widespread that it has its own medical term: acne cosmetica.
- Acne or pimples on back of head can also be caused by hormones. Your body produces more oil as a result of androgen hormones, particularly testosterone. Acne is frequently caused by an increase in hormones during puberty, however hormonal acne can also affect adults.
Types of Scalp Acne
There are a variety of reasons why pimples or blackheads occur on the scalp, which can make diagnosing scalp acne more complicated.
Scalp folliculitis is a similar disorder in which bacteria on the scalp infect and inflame the hair follicles. Small, itchy red pimples on back of head may develop as a result of this.
Pilar cysts are keratin-filled hard bumps that develop at the hair root. These lesions, unlike scalp acne, rarely have a white head.
Dandruff is a typical symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, which causes the scalp to become red and scaly. Picking at the region can cause more damage and leave marks that resemble pimples.
Treatments & Medications for Scalp Acne
Your doctor may recommend medicated shampoos to help you get rid of pimples on back of head. These are the ingredients to look for:
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Ciclopirox Or Ketoconazole: If you have a lot of dandruff, there’s a good probability that dead skin cells are triggering your scalp acne. You should use a shampoo containing ketoconazole or ciclopirox for this .
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Glycolic Acid: Glycolic acid aids in the exfoliation and rejuvenation of the skin. It’s a common component of anti-acne creams and shampoos.
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Salicylic Acid: It can be used as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and the top layer of your skin while also regulating sebum production. This common component has been utilized in dermatology for a long time. In the treatment of acne vulgaris, salicylic acid is both safe and effective.
Medicines for the scalp acne:
- If over-the-counter treatments don’t work or you start losing hair, see your doctor. Inflammation may demand the administration of a prescription drug.
- Your doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics or steroid cream for severe or chronic instances. Antibacterial and antihistamines are examples of oral drugs.
- For severe acne, isotretinoin may be prescribed.
Home Remedies For Scalp Acne:
Tea tree oil is effective in treating acne vulgaris because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It assists in the unclogging of hair follicles as well as the decrease of scalp irritation and dandruff. You may even get a shampoo that contains no more than 5% tea tree oil.
Add 1-2 drops of tea tree oil to half a cup of carrier oil for application (jojoba oil or coconut oil). Gently massage the mixture into your scalp and evenly distribute it. Leave it on for 2-4 minutes before thoroughly rinsing it off.
Because of its pH regulating and antibacterial qualities, this substance may help to reduce acne symptoms and pimples on back of head.
Apple cider vinegar should be diluted in water before use (2 to 3 tps). After shampooing and conditioning your hair, apply the mixture evenly to your scalp by gently pouring and massaging it in. Allow it to sit for two minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Prevention Tips for Scalp Acne
In order to avoid clogged pores, it’s critical to keep your scalp clean. A decent rule of thumb is to wash your hair whenever it becomes oily and after each workout.
Try the following to treat scalp acne, pimples on back of head and avoid subsequent flare-ups:
- Using fewer hair products, such as hair sprays and gels, and consuming enough vitamin A, D, and E to keep skin healthy Multivitamin supplements can be found in health food stores and on the internet.
- To allow the scalp to breathe, use looser-fitting headwear.
- Transitioning to hypoallergenic, natural hair care products. A wide variety of such products are available for purchase on the internet.
- Hair should be washed as soon as possible after a workout.
- If nutrition is regarded as a cause of flare-ups, keep a food diary to discover if certain foods induce flare-ups.
Conclusion
Acne on the scalp is rather common, and it’s treated similarly to acne on other parts of the body. Acne on the scalp can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem. When acne does not react to standard treatments, a person should consult a doctor to determine the best course of action.
A dermatologist will frequently begin treating scalp acne with daily medicated washes. If this does not work, they may suggest a more aggressive treatment. It may take some time for acne scars to vanish. To avoid spreading bacteria or producing deep scar tissue, avoid plucking pimples on the scalp.
FAQs
- Is Scalp Acne Linked to Hair Loss?
Folliculitis is a bacterial or fungal infection that creates inflamed follicles. This disorder resembles acne, however it is not the same. If left untreated, folliculitis can result in irreversible hair loss. This ailment, however, is not life-threatening.
- When should you go to the doctor if you have pimples on your scalp?
The majority of the time, over-the-counter acne remedies can be used to treat scalp pimples at home. If that doesn’t work or you’re concerned that your pimples are causing an infection, see your doctor.
- How long might pimples on the scalp take to heal?
Acne treatments can take anywhere from four to eight weeks to start working. You may need to continue treating the area to avoid recurrences. If you need to wash your hair regularly, dermatologists recommend using a moderate, daily shampoo.
