Pimples are a form of acne that can occur anywhere on the body where sebacious glands are located. This includes the face, neck, shoulder, back and scalp. Sebacious glands produce a natural oil called sebum which is used to protect the skin and hair from moisture loss. Unfortunately, when present in excess on the scalp, sebum can combine with a series of other substances to form pimples.
Sebum
Excess sebum build up on the scalp can contribute to acne formation. Water alone is unable to remove excess sebum oil from the scalp and hair strands. Shampoo employs surfactants which effectively remove and trap the sebum oil, allowing it to be washed away down the drain. When shampoo is not used, sebum builds up on the hair and scalp, contributing to the formation of acne comedones (blackheads or whiteheads), which can then progress into pimples.
Hormones
Your hormones can also play a role in pimple formation on the scalp, according the National Institute of Health. Hormones called androgens control the production of sebum in the body. Although men have a higher level of androgens (such as testosterone), women also produce small amounts of androgens from the ovaries and adrenal glands. This production of androgens can be elevated during times of hormonal imbalance, such as during puberty, pregnancy or menopause. The increase in androgens can result in excess sebum production, contributing to pimple formation on the scalp.
Skin Cells
Sebum only consists of part of the equation for pimple production on the scalp. For a comedone to form, dead skin cells must also be present. As the sebum combines with the dead skin cells on your scalp it can create plugs in your follicles, producing the beginnings of a pimple. Excess skin cells can be present on the scalp for several reasons including dandruff, psoriasis, dry skin and eczema.
Bacteria
Bacteria also play a role in pimple formation on the scalp, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is especially true for the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, or P. acnes. P. acnes is commonly found on the skin, but when provided with the right conditions (such as behind an acne plug) it can quickly take hold and grow. As the bacteria multiplies, the immune system triggers the production of white blood cells, which quickly spread to the affected follicle. As white blood cells build up, puss is created and inflammation occurs, resulting in a pimple.
About this Author
Chris Sherwood is a professional freelance journalist who specializes in health and fitness, diseases, medical and health research, and drug and alcohol effects research. Sherwood is currently finishing his degree in health care policy and administration with an emphasis on hospital administration.
