Scalp Pimples: How to Get Rid of This Bumpy Issue

Just like acne on the face or body, scalp pimples can occur when excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria clog pores. In your head's case, they get trapped in your hair follicles and can form papules (swelling without pus), pustules (swelling with pus), nodules (hard lumps under the skin), or cystic acne. Most cases of zits on your crown are acne vulgaris, a common type of acne. Scroll down to discover what causes these bumps and how to treat them with a few minor adjustments to your scalp and hair routine.

Scalp acne is not as common as you might think. Although your head has many sebaceous glands that secrete high sebum levels, comedones rarely form on the scalp. The thicker hairs on your head cover the glands completely, leaving no space for dirt, debris, and any other residue to enter. Your hair also wicks away sebum to prevent blockage.

The pimples on your head are often due to genetics, hormonal imbalances, allergies, and lifestyle factors. Your genes can influence how your sebaceous glands function, making some people prone to clogged pores and, therefore, scalp acne. Once you know the underlying causes of acne on the scalp, you can make a few changes to your habits to help prevent or minimize them.

If your scalp pimples are mild, sometimes all you need is a good acne shampoo and a few lifestyle tweaks to treat, prevent, or minimize breakouts.

Wash your hair more frequently if you find it gets oily, sweaty, or dirty quickly due to your lifestyle and the environment. The American Academy of Dermatology Association advises shampooing daily if you have greasy hair. Try a gentle, silicone-free shampoo like Dove Botanical Silicone Free Shampoo for Fresh Hair Clarify. It deep cleans tresses while helping reduce irritation to the scalp.

Shampoo immediately after working out or if you wear a hat all day. Focus on cleansing your scalp of sweat and oil. A detoxifying shampoo such as TRESemmé Detox & Nourish Shampoo deep cleans your head from daily impurities and build-up while also replenishing your hair’s lost nutrients. It's formulated with natural ingredients ginger and tea while being free of parabens and dyes. Pair it with TRESemmé Detox & Nourish Serum Conditioner for shiny, moisturized hair every day.

Avoid possible pore-clogging formulations such as oil-based hair styling sprays, creams, and waxes. Instead, opt for products that are labeled hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.

Thoroughly rinse your scalp and strands to remove any residue from your shampoo, conditioner, and other hair care or styling products, which can lead to skin clogging.

If you experience flaking, treat dandruff. It can clog hair follicles.

Exfoliate your scalp occasionally to remove any build-up of dead skin cells. Look for exfoliating haircare products or shampoos with salicylic acid and glycolic acid to remove dry, flaking skin.

If your scalp acne is more severe, try medication or topical solutions with benzoyl peroxide. Your dermatologist can provide a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and recommend prescription products such as tretinoin or antibiotics like clindamycin. Other treatments could include physical extraction and steroid injections.

Much like with pimples on the face or anywhere on the body, keeping your scalp clean and using non-comedogenic products go a long way in helping minimize the formation and severity of scalp pimples. Avoid popping zits, which could cause scarring and spread acne-causing bacteria. Similarly, wash bed linens and bath towels often to keep them clean since these are often in contact with your scalp and skin. Do you have scalp pimples? Bookmark this article to keep our scalp-saving tips fresh in your mind!