Pimples on Scalp: Is it Scalp Acne or Something Else?

Pimples on Scalp: Is it Scalp Acne or Something Else?

We all know how much pain and frustration a tiny pimple can bring. Remember those high school days when you were actively planning for prom night and then a small zit decided to show up on your face?

Yes, pimples can be incredibly annoying. But what if you start experiencing pimples on scalp? Scalp pimples can be even more bothersome because that pimple cream may mess up your hair. 

However, before you jump on to treatment it is essential that you first understand its root cause. This blog will guide you through some of the most common skin conditions that can cause small pimples on scalp. 

Can You Get Pimples on Your Scalp​?

Most people think that you can not get pimples on the scalp, while the truth is the scalp is also a part of your body and skin. So you can get pimples there as well. You can experience different types of acne from whiteheads (closed comedones), blackheads (open comedones), pustules, and papules, to pus-filled bumps depending on the root cause. 

Some other common symptoms that you may experience along with the small bumps on your scalp are:

Pimples and scabs on scalp can be painful at times making it difficult to shampoo, brush, or sometimes even touch your scalp. This is why proper treatment is essential. However, for effective treatment, it is crucial to first accurately diagnose the root cause of these pimples.

Pictures of Pimples on Scalp

Pictures of Pimples on Scalp

Here are a few pictures of pimples on the scalp to help you understand what they might look like. However, the appearance of these zits may vary a little depending on the root cause. 

What Causes Pimples on Scalp?

What Causes Pimples on Scalp?

Two of the most common causes of pimples on scalp are:

Scalp Acne

Scalp acne is when you experience breakouts due to clogged pores or hair follicles. Acne on scalp knows no age. However, it is more common among adults, and some other common symptoms associated with it are.

  • Itchy skin
  • Pus-filled bumps
  • Pain and soreness
  • Inflammation 

In severe cases, you may also notice hair loss and scabbing around the pimples. Now you might be wondering what might cause these pores to clog. Well, the answer is there are various factors that can clog the pores and lead to different types of acne.

One of the most common types of acne experienced on the scalp is acne cosmetica. This type of acne is caused when an ingredient in hair care products like hair sprays, shampoo, conditioners, styling gel, and waxes clogs the pores and leads to breakouts. 

Some other factors that can clog the pores and cause acne are:

  • Fungus, bacteria, or mites
  • Sweat
  • Dead skin cells
  • Excess sebum
  • Hormonal changes in the body
  • Stress
  • Reaction to certain medications

Treatment

Mild cases of scalp acne can be treated at home with the help of an OTC medicated shampoo for pimples on scalp. However, for severe cases, the doctor may prescribe the use of antibiotics, Oral isotretinoin, and antihistamines to reduce the severity of symptoms. 

Scalp Folliculitis

Scalp folliculitis is believed to be the second most common cause of pimples on scalp. It is a skin condition caused by an infection in the hair follicles. It can appear anywhere on the body except for the palms and soles. 

The hair follicles on the scalp can become infected due to the presence of certain bacteria, yeast, mites, or ingrown hair. As a result, you may experience painful pimple like bumps on scalp that may vary in size. 

The condition is also known as acne necrotica miliaris and Proprionibacterium folliculitis, these pimples are usually very itchy, making it hard at times to resist the itch. However, scratching can cause them to become sore and crusted, further worsening the conditions.  

Treatment

Scalp folliculitis can be managed by washing the scalp regularly with an anti-fungal shampoo containing ingredients like ketoconazole and ciclopirox. In severe cases, the dermatologist may prescribe the use of antibiotics and oral isotretinoin, along with the use of shampoo. 

Other Conditions that Can Cause Pimples on the Scalp

Other Conditions that Can Cause Pimples on the Scalp

Apart from scalp acne and scalp folliculitis, there are various other skin conditions that can lead to small itchy bumps on the scalp that are often confused with pimples and acne. 

Seborrheic Dermatitis 

Seborrheic dermatitis is considered a more severe form of dandruff. It can affect people of all ages, even the babies. When seborrheic dermatitis appears in babies it is known as cradle cap. It causes itchy flakes and scales on the scalp. 

However, it can also cause redness and inflammation on the scalp and other parts of the body as well, such as behind the ears, in the skin folds, on the trunk, and for babies in the diaper area. 

Severe cases of seborrheic dermatitis can cause intense itching, irritation, and raised scaly patches that may look quite similar to pimple-like bumps. Scratching or picking at these bumps can worsen the condition and lead to bleeding, irritated skin, and skin infections. 

Treatment

Even though there is no permanent cure for seborrheic dermatitis, it can be managed at home. For mild cases, the use of a medicated seborrheic dermatitis shampoo that contains active ingredients like zinc pyrithione to cleanse the scalp at least 2 to 3 times a week can help reduce the symptoms. 

For severe cases, it is best to consult a doctor who may prescribe the use of topical medications and corticosteroids.

Scalp Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition, that is caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells and causes them to grow at a much faster rate. As a result, the skin cells start accumulating on the skin and take the appearance of silvery-white scales. 

It also causes redness, irritation, and itching on the skin. Psoriasis can affect your whole body including the scalp. There are different types of psoriasis, the symptoms may vary a little for each type. 

Pustular psoriasis is one of its types that causes pus-filled pimples on scalp, especially on top of the scaly patches. 

Treatment

For scalp psoriasis, it is always advised to consult a doctor as it requires a proper treatment plan, which can range from the use of medicated shampoos containing salicylic acid and coal tar as an active ingredient along with topical corticosteroids, and oral medications. Sometimes Intravenous (IV) medications, and phototherapy are advised to treat symptoms of a flare-up. 

Scalp Ringworm

Scalp ringworm or tinea capitis can cause itchy pimples on scalp. As the name suggests most people think it is caused by worms, but the truth is, it is a skin infection caused by a fungus known as dermatophytes. 

It gets the name ringworm because it usually appears in a circular shape with tiny bumps and pimples on the outer layer and clear skin in the middle. The bad news it is highly contagious and can be easily transferred from one person to another through coming in contact.

This is why it is more common among young school-age children. Scalp ringworm can also cause redness, itching, and scaly, bald patches on the scalp. The condition can  first appear as small pimples before turning into hairless patches.  This is why it can be mistaken for scalp acne at first. 

Treatment

As scalp ringworm is contagious, immediate treatment is crucial to prevent this condition from spreading to other family members. The doctors usually prescribe the use of antifungal shampoo and prescription oral medications to treat the condition. 

Pilar Cysts

Pilar cysts also known as trichilemmal cysts is a condition that causes bumps that look similar to cystic pimples on scalp. It mostly affects the scalp and is caused by a buildup of keratin in the hair follicles. 

What distinguishes these bumps from those scalp acne is that they are not painful when touched. They are usually white or yellow, dome-shaped, and may vary in size. While they may not be painful scratching them can lead to infection causing redness, soreness, and pus discharge.

Treatment 

These cysts usually heal on their own, however it may take them a long time to go away. So if you want to get rid of it fast you can consult a doctor who may prescribe draining the cysts or removing it surgically. 

Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN)

Acne keloidalis nuchae is another skin condition that can cause pimple like bumps on scalp that hurt. It usually starts as a mild itch on the back of the neck or the scalp, then trunks into a red rash, and then takes the shape of small, round bumps, papules, and pustules that are often mistaken for acne pimples. 

In severe cases, especially when these pimples become infected it can lead to pus-filled bumps that may also bleed. The exact cause for this condition is still unknown, however, it is believed to be caused due to inflammation in the hair follicles that can also lead to permanent hair loss. 

Some common risk factors that make one more prone to developing the condition are:

  • Chronic infections
  • Reaction to certain medications
  • Family history of AKN

Treatment

The first thing often advised by dermatologists or trichologists to prevent the condition from getting worse is self-care. They may advise not to shave the heads, cut hair too short, avoid wearing tight-fitting headgear, and keep the affected area cool and dry. 

Along with this, they may prescribe the use of topical antimicrobial shampoo and topical retinoids.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer can also lead to sore pimple like bumps on scalp. Some of the most common types of cancer that affect the scalp and lead to bumps, sores, and ulcers are:

  • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): It causes waxy bumps on the scalp.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): It usually causes red, scaly patches or bumps that may bleed.
  • Melanoma: These bumps can change their color and size.
  • Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC): Even though it is rare but is one of the most dangerous types of cancer.

If you notice any odd bump or bumps on your scalp that are not going away, then it is best to consult a doctor to make sure it’s not caused by any type of cancer. 

Treatment

The cancer treatment is mostly done with the help of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery.

Do Pimples on Scalp Cause Hair Loss?

The answer to the question can pimples cause hair loss is a little complicated. Because in general pimples and acne on the scalp do not directly cause hair loss. However, some skin conditions like acne keloidalis nuchae and scalp ringworm can lead to the appearance of both small pimples and hair loss at the same time. 

Even though pimples themselves do not cause hair loss, however, picking at or scratching them can cause infections. These infections can damage the hair follicles and result in hair loss. 

How to Get Rid of Pimples on Scalp?

How to Get Rid of Pimples on Scalp?

If you are wondering how to treat pimples on scalp, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It all depends on the root cause and severity of the conditions. In some cases, using a certain type of medicated shampoo can help clear scalp acne.

However, in other situations, the condition may require a combination of self-care and doctor-prescribed treatments to get rid of the pimples. 

Here are a few things that you can do to prevent the condition from getting worse.

Keep your Scalp Clean

Keeping the scalp clean with a mild non-comedogenic daily shampoo is essential to prevent the condition from getting worse. The build-up of sebum, dirt, and bacteria on the scalp can further clog the pores and make the condition worse. 

This is why you must shampoo your scalp at least 3 times a week. If you have an excessively oily scalp then you can also shampoo your hair daily to prevent the buildups. The best shampoo for pimples on scalp is considered the one that contains any of the following active ingredients:

  • Salicylic acid
  • Ketoconazole
  • Glycolic acid
  • Ciclopirox
  • Benzoyl peroxide

Sometimes dandruff shampoo containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, and coal tar is also prescribed to manage the pimples on scalp depending on the cause of the condition. 

Choose the Right Products

Keeping the scalp clean is essential, but using the right products to keep it clean and healthy is also important. As we have discussed before, the oil and chemicals in the hair products can cause product buildup on the scalp and lead to acne cosmetica. 

So in order to prevent it you must use a shampoo, conditioner, or any other hair care product that is oil-free, non-comedogenic, Non-acnegenic, and free from skin-irritating chemicals like fragrances, sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. 

Treat the Root Cause

Diagnosing the root cause of the pimples on the scalp is essential to get the right treatment plan. The best way to do so is to consult a dermatologist who will be able to rule out the underlying skin condition and provide you with a treatment plan according to it.

Once you treat the underlying skin condition you will notice that the pimples on your scalp will also start getting better.  

Scalp Home Remedies

Even though most of the time scalp pimples are treated with the help of a medicated shampoo or prescribed medications, there are a few things that you can do at home to care for your scalp and support the healing process. 

  • Avoid using hair products that contain oil.
  • Thoroughly rinse your scalp after shampooing to prevent any residue buildup on the scalp.
  • Wash your hair regularly, especially after you sweat.
  • Avoid wearing tight headgear, hats, or headbands.
  • Avoid shaving the scalp. 
  • Avoid styling your hair too tightly or using hair styling products that contain harsh chemicals.
  • Avoid scratching or popping the pimples.
  • Use a cold compress to relieve the severe itching temporarily.
  • Brush your hair gently, to prevent the condition from getting worse and hair loss. 

You can soothe the pimples on your scalp with these remedies, however, if you are unsure about anything or your condition is not improving after some time even with proper treatment then it is advised to consult a doctor. 

There are chances you may have developed some other skin condition as well or your skin may not be responding well to the treatment due to certain medical conditions. 

Manage Seborrheic Dermatitis With Happy Cappy

Manage Seborrheic Dermatitis With Happy Cappy

If you are dealing with seborrheic dermatitis or your child is experiencing cradle cap. Then try using Happy Cappy Products. Happy Cappy anti-seborrheic dermatitis shampoo is specially developed by a pediatrician to prevent the recurrence of itching, irritation, and scaling of the scalp and skin associated with seborrheic dermatitis. 

Happy Cappy Cradle Cap Shampoo is one of the first medicated shampoos that is specially developed for the delicate and sensitive skin of babies. 

Both of these shampoos are fragrance-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, and dimethicone-free and contain pyrithione zinc as an active ingredient. Pyrithione zinc has been used for decades to manage the symptoms associated with dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and cradle cap. 

They also contain skin-soothing natural ingredients like licorice root extract and apple fruit extract that will help leave your scalp healthy and flake-free. 

Conclusion

Pimples on scalp can be frustrating and uncomfortable, however understanding its root cause is the first step in finding an effective treatment. Pimples on the scalp can be caused by various skin conditions from scalp acne, folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, ringworm, acne keloidalis nuchae to skin cancer. 

Each condition requires a tailored treatment to get rid of the pimples. However, a few things that can help prevent the condition from getting worse are: keeping the scalp clean, choosing the right hair products, taking proper care of your scalp at home, and consulting a dermatologist when necessary. 

FAQs

Why do I keep getting pimples on my scalp?

The main cause of pimples on scalp is clogged hair follicles. They can be clogged due to product buildup, the presence of certain bacteria, or excess sebum on the scalp.
However other skin conditions such as scalp folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, ringworm, and acne keloidalis nuchae also lead to the appearance of pimple-like bumps on the scalp.
If you notice that your pimples are persistent or recurring then it is best to consult a dermatologist because they can also be a sign of skin cancer.

When should I be worried about bumps on my scalp?

If the bump or pimple on your scalp lasts for a long period of time or starts getting worse, becomes sore, and oozes fluid then immediately consult the doctor.

How can I remove pimples on my scalp?

The best way to get rid of pimples on the scalp is to use a medicated shampoo at least 2 to 3 times a week to wash your scalp. Use a shampoo that contains Salicylic acid as an active ingredient.

How long do scalp pimples last?

It depends on the root cause and severity of the condition. Mild cases of scalp acne usually take about a few weeks to get better with the right treatment. While pimples caused by any other skin condition may take a little longer to get better.

What shampoo is good for scalp folliculitis?

For scalp folliculitis, the doctor usually prescribes the use of OTC medicated anti-fungal shampoo containing ketoconazole or ciclopirox as an active ingredient to treat the condition.

Is it ok to pop pimples on head?

No, it is not ok to pop pimples on your scalp. Popping or scratching the pimples can lead to other complications such as:
Scarring
Skin infection
Increased inflammation
Severe pain

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Dr. Eddie Valenzuela is an award winning pediatrician and the founder and CEO of Pediatric Solutions, LLC.

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Why do I keep getting pimples on my scalp?

The main cause of pimples on scalp is clogged hair follicles. They can be clogged due to product buildup, the presence of certain bacteria, or excess sebum on the scalp.
However other skin conditions such as scalp folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, ringworm, and acne keloidalis nuchae also lead to the appearance of pimple-like bumps on the scalp.
If you notice that your pimples are persistent or recurring then it is best to consult a dermatologist because they can also be a sign of skin cancer.

When should I be worried about bumps on my scalp?

If the bump or pimple on your scalp lasts for a long period of time or starts getting worse, becomes sore, and oozes fluid then immediately consult the doctor.

How can I remove pimples on my scalp?

The best way to get rid of pimples on the scalp is to use a medicated shampoo at least 2 to 3 times a week to wash your scalp. Use a shampoo that contains Salicylic acid as an active ingredient.

How long do scalp pimples last?

It depends on the root cause and severity of the condition. Mild cases of scalp acne usually take about a few weeks to get better with the right treatment. While pimples caused by any other skin condition may take a little longer to get better.

What shampoo is good for scalp folliculitis?

For scalp folliculitis, the doctor usually prescribes the use of OTC medicated anti-fungal shampoo containing ketoconazole or ciclopirox as an active ingredient to treat the condition.

Is it ok to pop pimples on head?

No, it is not ok to pop pimples on your scalp. Popping or scratching the pimples can lead to other complications such as:
Scarring
Skin infection
Increased inflammation
Severe pain

DERMATOLOGIST TESTED SENSITIVE SKIN AND SCALP CARE

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