What Is Scalp Acne? How to Treat Pimples on Your Scalp

Ultimately, this can lead to more scarring of the skin and hair loss. Moral of the story? Hands off.

What can you do to treat scalp acne?

Make your wash-day routine count by lathering up with medicated shampoos formulated with antibacterial ingredients, such as sulfur and salicylic acid. “I suggest washing every other day,” says Dr. Robinson. “It’s best to lather and let the anti-inflammatory shampoo sit for five minutes before rinsing for best effect.” The derm recommends anti-drandruff shampoo Cln shampoo, which combines salicylic acid and dilute sodium hypochlorite to knock out itching, folliculitis, and dandruff.

CLn Healthy Scalp Shampoo

If you head to your dermatologist or healthcare provider, they may prescribe topical options such as topical clindamycin, erythromycin, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid. “For more severe cases, oral antibiotics or oral retinoids are prescribed,” says Dr. Hicks-Graham.

What can you do to prevent scalp acne?

Despite a lack of information on scalp acne on the World Wide Web, Dr. Carlos assures that the condition isn’t that uncommon and that he treats patients pretty frequently. “Helping to prevent oil and flaky build-up can be extremely helpful,” says Dr. Carols. “Ketoconazole shampoo (which can be purchased over the counter at a one percent strength or the prescription strength of two percent) are two good options.”

Dr. Carlos is also a fan of Neutrogena T/ Sal Therapeutic Shampoo, which contains salicylic acid to reduce bumps.

Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control

On the flip slide, Dr. Carlos cautions that while shampoos like these are helpful to combat an oily scalp, they can dry out your hair if you overuse them. “If acne bumps develop, look for [hair-care] products containing glycolic acid or even tea tree oil to apply directly to the offending bumps,” says Dr. Carlos. “This can assist in eliminating bacteria and speeding the process of eradicating the pimple.”

And finally, if lesions persist after attempting these simple remedies the experts agree that it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation.

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