Scalp Acne FAQs

Acne can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable problem when it appears on the face. However, it is important to note that acne can appear almost anywhere on the body that there is skin. This includes the back, the neck, the legs and even the scalp. Scalp acne is typically observed in areas surrounded but not covered by hair, like the frontal hairline, the neck, or bald patches on the scalp.

What Causes Scalp Acne?

Scalp acne has the same causes as acne anywhere else on the body. It can occur due to a combination of factors, such as heredity, hygiene, hormone imbalance and stress. When sebaceous glands are inflamed and sebum becomes trapped with hair, dirt and oil in the pores of the skin, pimples and other acne may begin to form. This is as true of scalp acne as any other kind of acne. However, since scalps are often subject to hair products, it’s important to note that excessive use of oily hair products can intensify the occurrence and severity of scalp acne.

What Types of Scalp Acne Are There?

Different types of scalp acne may have different names depending upon their severity. The mildest form of scalp acne is referred to as scalp folliculitis, while the most severe cases are classified as acne necrotica miliaris. Scalp folliculitis is generally found at the front hairline in the form of small, brittle acne spots. Acne necrotica miliaris may present as larger, black inflamed cysts which can be found throughout the scalp.

How Can You Treat Scalp Acne?

Keeping the scalp clean and healthy is the key. This means avoiding oily hair products if possible, as well as avoiding conditioners with humectants.

For mild scalp acne, more frequent shampoo, designed for those with oily hair, can do the trick, as can cleaning the scalp with a salicylic acid product. Certain anti-dandruff shampoos can be helpful, as can topical steroids or antibiotics applied under doctor supervision.

Another very useful treatment for scalp acne is a shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide, the active ingredient in most Proactiv products. Benzoyl peroxide is specially designed to find acne-causing bacteria and destroy it. Cleaning products containing benzoyl peroxide remove the dirt and oil that can cause acne and kill bacteria to reduce the chances that the scalp acne will return.

Notes on Scalp Acne

If you suspect you have a severe case of scalp acne, you should consult your dermatologist immediately. He or she should be able to guide you as to the best treatment or course of action. Sharing towels or bathing facilities (for example a hot tub) should be avoided, both because you can transmit acne-causing bacteria and because you can get it from others. Also, keep in mind that while it will be very tempting to pick at scalp acne, you must avoid doing this. You can’t see your scalp acne, and scratching or picking it off can be extremely satisfying.  However, you must realize that you are doing damage to your skin and potentially creating permanent scars. Stick to benzoyl peroxide shampoo and other approved treatment to get rid of scalp acne.