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Dealing with acne on your face and bumps on your body is already frustrating enough, but discovering pimples on your scalp can add another layer of stress. Not only is it an unexpected problem, but treating scalp acne can be tricky since it's hard to spot and you can't use your regular acne treatments on your hair. Here, experts offer their top tips and strategies for identifying, treating, and preventing scalp acne.
What Exactly Is Scalp Acne?
Scalp acne is similar to facial acne. "Clogged pores can develop on the scalp just like they do on the face, as this area is rich in sebaceous or oily glands," explained Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. "When a pore becomes blocked and bacteria gets trapped, it causes inflammation and pimples to form on the scalp."
Scalp acne typically appears on the scalp and the back of the head, presenting as small pimples much like those found on the face. According to Dendy Engelman, MD, FACSM, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, "Scalp acne is primarily caused by the accumulation of hair products, dead skin cells, and oils that clog hair follicles."
Signs of Scalp Acne
If you suspect you may have developed scalp acne, watch for these telltale symptoms:
- Small bumps on your scalp, forehead, neck, or along your hairline
- Whiteheads on your scalp and hairline
- Clusters of tightly packed bumps on your scalp and hairline
- Deep acne cysts beneath the skin on your scalp or hairline
- Itchy or painful scalp sensations
How to Manage Scalp Acne
Dealing with scalp acne can be unpleasant, but there are several treatments available to help you tackle it when it appears.
Use a Clarifying Shampoo Once a Week
To combat scalp acne, Engelman suggests using a clarifying shampoo at least once a week (she recommends Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo) to remove acne-causing bacteria. "I also recommend seeking products with tea tree oil, as it can help moisturize the scalp, regulate bacteria, and break down buildup," Engelman advises. She recommends the Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Tingle & Treat Scalp Indulgence Set, which contains the Regeniplex™ botanical blend. This blend includes clover flower extract, pea peptides, turmeric, Kakadu plum, and ginseng to stimulate the scalp and protect against breakage.
Apply a Salicylic Acid Treatment
Both Engelman and Murphy-Rose recommend using salicylic acid to treat and prevent scalp acne. "Frequent washing of the hair and scalp helps prevent acne, and using salicylic acid along with antimicrobial agents targets the root causes of scalp acne," explains Murphy-Rose. "Salicylic acid exfoliates the scalp, keeping the pores clean, while antibacterial ingredients reduce the bacterial load on the scalp."
Include Additional Scalp Acne-Fighting Ingredients
Other ingredients Murphy-Rose suggests her patients consider when searching for products to target scalp acne include activated charcoal to help "detox" the scalp by absorbing excess oils and sebum, as well as products containing apple cider vinegar. One of our top picks for a shampoo with activated charcoal is IGK First Class. Murphy-Rose is also a fan of Better Not Younger New Dawn Activated Charcoal Scalp Cleanser, which offers a deep cleanse by absorbing oils and clearing pores with activated charcoal, and Ouai Detox Shampoo, which helps clarify the scalp and remove pore-clogging debris using apple cider vinegar.
For those with severe scalp acne, Engelman recommends using products with benzoyl peroxide or seeing a dermatologist for a cortisone injection.
What Should You Avoid if You Have Scalp Acne?
Never pick at your scalp acne—it may be tempting, but it will only make the situation worse. "Avoid products that add excessive oil to your scalp or hair (like oily conditioners or sprays) and ingredients that are difficult to wash out," advises Engelman. "Dimethicone, for instance, creates a barrier that can trap bacteria and dead skin cells in pores if not properly rinsed off."
If you're frequently dealing with scalp acne, it's important to let your scalp breathe. "Avoid tight hats, such as beanies and baseball caps, that trap heat. When the scalp is confined, it leads to sweat and bacteria buildup, causing acne to worsen and breakouts to occur," says Engelman.
How to Prevent Scalp Acne
The key to preventing scalp acne lies in being mindful of your hair care routine. "I suggest keeping it simple—avoid overloading your scalp with too many products like gels or hairsprays that can lead to buildup," advises Engelman. "Also, make sure to wash your hair right after exercising to remove any dirt or bacteria that may have accumulated."
