Top 3 Reasons for Scalp Acne & 1 Solution

Scalp pimples or acne can be a very annoying issue to tackle, especially if you do not have enough experience to know the causes and treatments to use. In this post, we aim to talk a bit more about the main 3 reasons for scalp acne, as well as the treatments, which could be used to fix the issue. It is important to add that scalp acne can be a bit more complicated to treat compared to regular acne – you will need to make some adjustments to your hair and scalp care routine. 

If you have noticed the annoying bumps on your scalp, then you should know that the probable causes for this are clogged hair follicles or an allergic reaction. The former is caused by the buildup of dead skin cells, oils, and dirt in the follicles, triggering the acne outbreak. Keep in mind that this is just a ‘generic’ description of the issue – there is a lot more to say about the main 3 reasons for scalp acne.

So, let’s not waste any more time, and get to the point – here are the things that might trigger an acne outbreak on your scalp.

Folliculitis, a Common but Less Known Skin Condition

You might not have heard of folliculitis, but it is actually one of the most common causes of acne outbreaks on your skin. Typically, it affects the skin underneath your hair (the scalp) or your beard. The issue is caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, and many people might confuse it with a minor rash at first. The folliculitis condition is represented by small red bumps and white-headed pimples. While the condition seems light at first, it can quickly become a major outbreak and affect a larger area of your skin. 

Thankfully, folliculitis is not dangerous, but it can be quite annoying to deal with. It is itchy, sore, and affects your looks and confidence greatly. Thankfully, most cases of folliculitis are easily treatable by using an appropriate skincare routine, involving the use of antifungal and antibiotic medication. 

Allergic Reactions

People often underestimate allergic reactions when it comes to finding the cause of an acne outbreak. Believe it or not, allergic reactions are a common cause for a scalp acne. Typically, these allergies are caused by a new cosmetic product you might be using, or because of an unexpected change in your environment. Even changing your laundry detergent may trigger such a reaction. 

Thankfully, treating an allergic reaction is simple. You should get rid of the irritants that have gotten to your scalp be rinsing it off with cool water. You could also use a recommended antibacterial medication to try and speed up the healing process.

While allergic reactions leading to scalp acne are not dangerous, you should see a doctor if the problem persists, or if it occurs regularly.

Atopic Dermatitis, or Dandruff for Short

Dandruff is not only uncomfortable, but it can also trigger more severe reactions such as a scalp acne outbreak. Many people are surprised to find out that it is one of the main 3 reasons for scalp acne, and tackling dandruff causes is a great way to prevent such outbreaks.

Typically, dandruff is caused by hair products that dry out your scalp, or because of yeast overgrowth. Keep in mind that dandruff issues do not necessarily lead to acne – however, it is a common cause. Just like the other reasons listed above, this one can also be tackled by adjusting your hair and skincare routine.

If you do not want to bother with individual solutions, then then you need a healthy scalp shampoo that can help with the issues listed above. Zincplex, a scalp acne shampoo, for example, is the #1 herbal treatment for scalp acne and bumps, regardless of the cause. The best part about this particular product is that it can serve as a solution for all sorts of acne issues, not just the ones concerning your scalp.