Pimples on your scalp can bug you, hurt you, and make it tough to brush or style your hair. Scalp acne isn't as common as face acne, but it can still be a real pain for many folks. If you don't deal with it scalp pimples can make you itch, swell up, and even lose hair. The good news is, if you take care of it right, you can keep breakouts in check and stop them from happening.
In this blog, we'll look at what makes pimples pop up on your scalp how to fix them, and the best ways to keep your scalp healthy and clear. PMC
What Makes Pimples Show Up on Your Scalp?
To find the right way to treat scalp pimples, you need to know what's causing them. Scalp pimples happen when hair follicles get clogged with oil dead skin, and germs. Here are some things that can lead to scalp acne: Science Direct
1. Too Much Oil
Your scalp has oil-producing glands that keep your skin moist. But when these glands make too much oil, it can block your hair follicles. This blockage can cause pimples to pop up on your scalp.
2. Inadequate Cleansing
Not shampooing your hair regularly can create a buildup of dirt, sweat, and oils on the scalp that can cause clogged pores and ultimately lead to pimples. Conversely, shampooing too frequently can wash away your scalp's natural oils, leading the scalp to compensate by producing excess amounts of oil.
3. Products and Build-Up
Certain hair products can also lead to pimples on the scalp, especially those that are greasy, and thick, and fill the hair with sulfate-based ingredients (like any product containing sodium lauryl sulfate, too, ideally). Sometimes, but not always, these products will block your pores or irritate your scalp.
4. Bacterial or Fungal Infections
Bacteria and fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so if you have a sweaty scalp for any length of time, there is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can also lead to a breakout of pimples.
5. Hormonal Fluctuations
Fluctuations and spikes in hormones can also stimulate excess oil production caused by normal physical changes that accompany puberty, pregnancy, or during protective or menstrual days.
6. Stress Level and Diet
Also, stress can raise cortisol levels which signal oil production on the scalp. In addition, eating sugary or oily foods can also lead to a breakout.
7. Wearing Tight Hats or Helmets
Constant friction from tight outerwear such as hats, helmets, or headbands can also irritate your scalp causing breakouts.
Additionally, this outerwear can trap sweat and bacteria underneath for long periods of time which can lead to escalated conditions.
How to Treat Pimples on the Scalp
If you are unsure about treatment options for the pimples on your scalp, here are several options to consider. The best option will depend on the severity of your breakouts as well as what is causing them. Wiley
1. Consider a Medicated Shampoo
Find a medicated shampoo that contains salicylic acid, zinc parathion, or tea tree oil. These substances are effective at loosening clogged pores and reducing inflammation in the scalp. You can find good, medicated shampoo products that will cleanse your scalp well, without stripping your scalp’s moisture.
2. Maintain a Routine to Clean Your Scalp
The most effective means of cleaning your scalp is using a gentle shampoo frequently to remove excess oil, dirt, and product buildup that trigger clogged pores. Try to avoid washing too often, as your scalp may produce even more oil to compensate.
3. Avoid Heavy Products
Try to avoid hair products that are oily or greasy since they can block hair follicles. Try to use the lightest options like lighter oils (coconut oil, jojoba oil) and non-comedogenic products.
4. Exfoliate Your Scalp
Exfoliation can also be beneficial for your scalp, as well as your facial skin. Consider a scalp scrub or use a brush to remove dead skin, which can help to avoid clogged pores that contribute to scalp acne.
5. Maintain a Dry Scalp and Hair
If you sweat excessively during exercise or sweaty weather, it's crucial to dry your scalp properly. Allowing sweat to linger on your scalp for an extended period of time can harbour bacteria and lead to future breakouts.
6. Utilize Natural Remedies
Natural remedies can also be effective for a natural remedy for pimples on the scalp. With any question of efficacy, here are a few easy home remedies:
• Tea Tree Oil Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is diluted would applied to your scalp.
• Apple Cider Vinegar Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water and rinse your scalp with the mixture to help reduce bacteria and promote a healthy pH.
• Aloe Vera Gel Using aloe vera can alleviate inflammation and help heal pimples on the scalp.
7. Utilize Over-the-Counter Treatment
If the scalp pimples persist, consider over-the-counter treatment for topical use. Look for products containing either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Both ingredients will cause a reduction in inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.
8. Manage Stress and Diet
Take stress relief by using practices like yoga, sport, meditation, or exercise to manage hormone levels and prevent an acne breakout. Maintain a healthy diet by eating fresh vegetables and fruits, and drinking plenty of water which could help with how to cure scalp acne naturally.
How to Get Rid of Pimples on Scalp Permanently
Treating scalp pimples is important, but it also is important to prevent the scalp from having recurring scalp acne. Here are some long-term approaches to avoid having acne on the scalp:
1. Use a Clarifying Shampoo Once a Week:
This will get rid of excess oil or buildup that normal shampoos do not clean out.
2. Change Pillow Cases Often:
Pillowcases harbor dirt, bacteria and oils that can contribute to scalp acne.
3. Avoid Touching Your Scalp Often:
We carry bacteria on our hands, and touching our scalp can move the bacteria from our hands to our scalp, causing pimples.
4. Be Aware of Allergies:
Some individuals develop scalp acne due to an allergic reaction to their hair products. If you develop breakouts after using a product, stop using it.
Pimples on Scalp and Hair Loss - Are They Related?
Many people worry about the relationship between pimples on the scalp and hair loss. In reality, it is typically not a significant cause of hair loss. Occasional acne on your scalp will not lead to hair loss if it is treated, or if you are fortunate to not experience significant outbreaks.
However, if an individual has severe or chronic pimples on their scalp, this can damage hair follicles. If untreated, becoming inflamed and infected can also weaken hair roots and lead to thinning hair or temporary hair loss. However, if scalp acne is treated, normal growth of hair typically resumes.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you're experiencing severe, painful, or chronic scalp acne, you've likely noticed that it's time to speak with a dermatologist. Your scalp acne could be due to an underlying skin issue, like folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, or an associated fungal infection, and will require medical treatment. A dermatologist may prescribe an antibiotic for oral use, steroid cream for topical use, or a medicated shampoo to control the scalp condition.
In Closing
Scalp acne can be unbearable but is easily treatable through consistent care.
Maintaining a clean scalp, using the appropriate products, and incorporating a healthy lifestyle will all assist in controlling or caretaking current breakouts, as well as avoiding future ones. You can also seek natural treatments only, medicated treatments, or lifestyle changes and dietary inclusion only which one would be best for the health of your scalp and will contribute most to clearer, healthier, and pimple-free skin.
Whatever works best for you, is what to commit to in order to clear your scalp of a pimple problem. If you’ve struggled with a pimple problem on the scalp, consider these tips, and shortly thereafter, you will notice a drastic change for the better. Lastly, if things don’t improve after your trip to the pharmacy, don’t hesitate to seek professional help, if nothing else, to keep the scalp clean and irritate your health further!
FAQs
1. How do you get rid of a pimple head?
Avoid popping it, as this can result in infection. Instead, use a medicinal shampoo containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, apply warm compresses to minimize swelling, and allow the area to heal naturally.
2. How long does a hair pimple last?
A small hair pimple typically lasts a few days to a week, however more severe cases may take two weeks or longer to cure, depending on the therapy.
3. Why are scalp pimples so painful?
The scalp contains numerous nerve endings and hair follicles, making pimples more sensitive. Inflammation, pressure from hair growth, and bacterial infections can exacerbate the pain.
4. How to stop pimples on the scalp?
To avoid breakouts, keep your scalp clean by washing it with a light or medicated shampoo on a regular basis, avoiding oily hair products, exfoliating sometimes, and eating a nutritious diet.
5. How long do scalp pimples last?
Most scalp pimples heal within 7-14 days, but persistent or severe cases may take longer and necessitate medical attention.