What Is Scalp Acne And How Should It Be Treated?
Scalp acne, characterized by breakouts on the scalp or hairline, occurs when hair follicles become clogged due to a buildup of dead skin cells, sebum, or other substances. To treat scalp acne effectively, follow these guidelines:
Good Hygiene: Regularly wash your hair with oil-free shampoos, focusing on the scalp area rather than just the strands. Ensure complete rinsing to remove any residual product buildup.
Medicated Shampoos: Use over-the-counter medicated shampoos containing active ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, ketoconazole, ciclopirox, or benzoyl peroxide.
Topical Treatments: For persistent acne, consult a healthcare provider who may recommend topical antibiotic ointments, steroid injections, oral antibiotics, antihistamines, phototherapy, or specific medications like isotretinoin for severe cases.
Hair Care Routine Changes: Review your current hair care products; switch to oil-free, non-comedogenic, and anti-acnegenic alternatives.
Timeline: Expect improvements within 6 weeks after adopting appropriate measures.
Do Not Pop Pimples: Resisting the urge to pop pimples reduces the risks of scars, infections, and further inflammation.
Medical Consultation: For persistent, moderate, or severe scalp acne, seek guidance from a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment plan.
Remember, scalp acne can be caused by factors like dead skin cells, sebum, bacteria, yeast, or mites, and can be exacerbated by the use of certain hair products, not washing hair frequently, or wearing headgear that causes friction.