Scalp Acne Rears It’s Ugly Head
Scalp acne as the name suggests is not only limited to the scalp, it can occur in any place where hair follicles are present i.e. face, armpit, legs and alike. Scalp acne’s real name is “scalp folliculitis”. It is important to start an appropriate acne treatment for scalp timely so that the situation does not get worsened.
Scalp acne is acne that shows up on the scalp and near the hairline. People who have excessively oily hair are more prone to this type of acne. The severity of scalp acne ranges from mild, barely-noticeable cases to severe instances that need intensive medical treatment. Scalp pimples or scalp acne are not always the same as garden-variety skin pimples. The scalp is, of course, skin, but scalp pimples usually involve the hair follicles, which get inflamed. The disorder can vary in nature and comes under various scientific names, but basically they all result in small, itchy pustules that are usually first noticed while combing or brushing of hair. Such pimples get infected in no time at all and become a major problem.
The cause of scalp pimples is not clear. In certain cases, micro-organisms such as yeast, mites and the dreaded staph bacterium that often thrive in the uniquely suitable host environment of the scalp can lead to scalp pimples. In such cases, treatment with topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin solutions or oral tetracycline may be necessary. In more severe infestations, even steroids may be needed. In milder cases, simple but unrelenting scalp hygiene can resolve the problem.
Some people have many pustules on the hairline and some have few depending on the skin type. Some topical antibiotics used include clindamycin and erythromycin which can sometimes lead to dryness of the skin.
Severe forms of scalp acne must be treated only under dermatologist surveillance. People with nodules or cysts should also be treated by a dermatologist. Severe cases that continue to reoccur may need to be treated by performing laser removal on the infected follicle or follicles. Severe Forms of this form of acne are rare, but they are a great hardship to the people who experience them, and can be disfiguring–and, like all forms of acne, can have psychological effects on the sufferer.
Mild forms of scalp acne can be treated the way most other acne is treated. Keep the affected area clean by using a product that contains salicylic acid. Remember though that these products can cause excessive dryness so use only on affected areas. For better control, apply using a cotton wool or ball.
Since oily hair is a contributing factor to scalp acne, it is imperative to use shampoo that’s formulated for oily hair. Hair care products designed specially to treat seborrhea have also been used with reasonable success. And since many people use more than just shampoo on their hair, it’s a good idea to check the labels on all hair care products and make changes as necessary.Some people have many pustules on the hairline and some have few depending on the skin type. Some topical antibiotics used include clindamycin and erythromycin which can sometimes lead to dryness of the skin.
Severe forms of scalp acne must be treated only under dermatologist surveillance. People with nodules or cysts should also be treated by a dermatologist. Severe cases that continue to reoccur may need to be treated by performing laser removal on the infected follicle or follicles. Severe Forms of this form of acne are rare, but they are a great hardship to the people who experience them, and can be disfiguring–and, like all forms of acne, can have psychological effects on the sufferer.
Consider adding a topical application to the your daily cleansing routine. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide ointments, creams, astringents and gels can be applied directly to the acne for a speedier healing process. Consider products that are less likely to make your hair appear greasy. You will also want to use astringents sparingly to avoid over drying. If the scalp acne remedies dry the scalp, the oil glands kick into over drive and the acne will persist.
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