Overview
Acne that occurs on the scalp and hairline is also known as folliculitis. Folliculitis is a condition that is caused by hair follicles becoming blocked and infected. Pimple like bumps appear on the scalp and hairline and may be pus filled. This is a highly treatable condition however you should avoid sharing combs, brushes, and avoid using hot tubs and whirlpools. Folliculitis is a contagious condition and should be treated with care.
Step 1
Wash your hair daily with a gentle shampoo. Harsh shampoos and conditioners actually worsen folliculitis and produce irritation to the scalp. An oil free shampoo is ideal for cleansing when suffering folliculitis. You may also use anti dandruff shampoos according to Derm Net, because these shampoos contain anti fungal agents.
Step 2
Clean brushes and combs after each use. Keeping these clean will prevent redistribution of bacteria so that your scalp can heal. Boiling combs and brushes daily helps kill the bacteria that settles into the bristles and trapped shed hair.
Step 3
Apply an over the counter antibiotic cream to the affected areas of the scalp and hairline three times daily. These antibiotic creams are meant to treat small areas of folliculitis. If you suffer a larger scale infection, then your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics. In this case, make sure to finish the entire course of treatment to successfully eliminate the infection.
Step 4
Use gentle hair styling products that are noncomdogenic and oil free. In most cases, folliculitis is aggravated by harsh hair styling products. Avoid using hair dyes, perms, or relaxers while undergoing treatment.
Step 5
Take an antihistamine to help reduce inflammation and itching. Increased histamine in the body is the natural response to skin irritants and allergens. Antihistamine medication will decrease the amount of histamine produced.
