How Do I Dry Up Pimples on My Scalp?
Scalp pimples occur when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and sebum, the oily substance secreted by skin glands. Because hair holds sebum close to the scalp and the use of hair care products can compound the problem, scalp pimples are challenging to treat. Typical acne treatment methods designed for the face or body, such as benzoyl peroxide creams and washes, might address pimples but have the undesirable side effect of bleaching hair. Fortunately, there are ways to fight scalp pimples.
Instructions
-
-
1
Go easy on hair care products. Gels, sprays and conditioners should be used with a light touch, if at all, so that pores are less likely to become clogged. If you must use conditioner, apply it to the middle and ends of your hair, and not at the scalp.
-
2
Wash regularly with a mild shampoo to prevent your hair from becoming greasy. Scalp pimples that feel inflamed and itchy might be a form of folliculitis, a condition in which hair follicles become infected by bacteria or fungus. Using a shampoo made with tea tree oil, an antibacterial and antifungal agent, or a dandruff shampoo containing ketoconazole or ciclopirox can address this close cousin of scalp acne.
-
-
3
Apply salicylic acid to the pimples. Safer for hair and an effective pimple treatment, salicylic acid helps destroy existing blemishes and reduce inflammation. Use a cotton swab to dab a small amount of cream containing this potent pimple fighter on any acne spots on the scalp.
-
4
Supplement your diet. Some physicians recommend increasing your intake of gamma-linolenic acid and omega-3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and hair growth as a preventive measure. Salmon, walnuts, fortified eggs and sardines are good dietary sources of these oils, or you can take fish, black currant, evening primrose or borage oil capsules as supplements.
-
5
Consult your physician if these measures are ineffective. You may be prescribed topical or oral medications to help clear up scalp pimples, and your doctor can work with you to develop a plan to minimize future occurrences.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Do not pick, squeeze or pop blemishes---this can push infection deeper into the skin, increase swelling and inflammation, and make the blockage even worse.
Refrain from vigorously scrubbing your scalp when shampooing your hair to avoid irritating blemishes. Gently massage shampoo in and rinse with comfortably warm water instead.
