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An Introduction to Scalp Acne

Scalp acne is one of the lesser known types of acne, yet it still affects people all over the world. Here is a look at scalp acne and the type of treatment options that are available to you if you are one of the many who suffer from it.

Scalp acne is a more recently discovered form of acne. Unlike other forms, this particular acne condition appears only on the scalp. However, the causes of scalp acne are often the same as the causes for acne that affects the face and other parts of the body.

The scientific term for scalp acne is scalp folliculitis. Basically, this condition is an inflammation of the hair follicles on the scalp. Other terms for scalp acne include necrotica miliaris and proprionibacterium acne folliculitis.

If you take a close up look of scalp acne, you will see that it looks similar to the other types of acne found on the body - small pustules and pimples occurring on the scalp of the acne sufferer. Unfortunately for the person with the condition, scalp acne can be quite itchy. It also is most prominent along the hairline, making it quite noticeable to other people.

Just like other forms of acne, scalp acne can vary in severity. A patient may only have a few lesions, or they may have several. Since it is located on the scalp, many patients have a tendency to scratch at the scalp acne pustules. This can cause them to rupture, becoming uncomfortable. The resulting fluid also takes on an unattractive, crusty appearance.

It can take some time to clear up scalp acne, often a month or more with treatment. Scalp acne is most commonly seen in individuals that go through high levels of stress on a daily basis, and in those people that have an oilier than normal scalp. If you do not wash your hair frequently enough, use hair products that irritate your scalp, or frequently use oils on your hair, you could also be subject to scalp acne.

The best way to treat scalp acne is to keep your hair clean. A mild shampoo is best to use, or ask your dermatologist for suggestions. In most cases, an anti-dandruff shampoo is too harsh for use on scalp acne, and may irritate your scalp more. In most cases, you can continue to use your conditioner on your hair, just avoid using oils on the scalp.

There are also some products that are specifically designed to treat scalp acne that you can get from your dermatologist. They often include clindamycin, erythromycin, or another antibiotic that is applied directly to the scalp to help heal the scalp acne lesions.

Of the different types of scalp acne, acne necrotica is the worst. With this condition, you will see large, noticeable spots where the hair follicles and papules have become inflamed. Left untreated, this condition will form a black crust and permanent scarring that can affect the way you look. Also, if it is left untreated, this form of scalp acne can spread to the face as well. Because of this, if you feel that you have scalp acne that is not improving, you should see your dermatologist right away.