Scalp Acne & Folliculitis : What’s Causing It and How to Treat It

Acne on your scalp? It’s more common than you think.

Humidity, hard water, sweat, pollution, and frequent hair product use create the perfect storm for clogged follicles and inflammation. Let’s break down what causes scalp acne and folliculitis, how to spot the difference, and what you can do to treat it.

1. What Is Scalp Acne? What Is Folliculitis?

• Scalp acne involves clogged pores or sebaceous glands on the scalp. These appear as whiteheads, blackheads, or painful red bumps.

• Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicle, it can be bacterial, fungal, or even caused by friction and heat.

Both conditions may look similar, but folliculitis is often itchier and more persistent, and sometimes spreads beyond the hairline.

2. Why Is It So Common ?

• Hard water: Leaves mineral deposits that irritate skin and block follicles

• High humidity: Encourages sweat + bacterial/fungal overgrowth

• Pollution & helmet use: Traps heat and dirt, leading to inflammation

• Heavy hair oils or styling products: Can clog scalp pores if not washed out properly

3. How to Know If It’s Scalp Acne or Folliculitis

Symptoms:

• Small red or white bumps, especially near hair roots

• Pain or tenderness when combing or pressing scalp

• Itching or burning

• Flakes or crusting (if infection sets in)

If it’s fungal, bumps may look uniform and itchy. If bacterial, they may be more painful or filled with pus.

4. At-Home Treatments That Help

✅ Salicylic acid or glycolic acid shampoos (2–3x/week)
✅ Ketoconazole shampoo – antifungal and anti-inflammatory
✅ Tea tree or zinc-based scalp sprays
✅ Avoid heavy oils or comedogenic products on scalp
✅ Rinse hair with filtered water, especially after washing out conditioner

5. Clinical Treatments That Offer Relief

At MASA Aesthetics, we offer targeted therapies for scalp acne and folliculitis:

• Tricho-scalp peels: Gentle exfoliation to unclog follicles

• LED light therapy: Reduces inflammation and microbial overgrowth

• Topical antibiotic or antifungal prescriptions (post-diagnosis)

• PRP or GFC scalp sessions (for post-folliculitis recovery + hair strength)

• Patch testing: to rule out product-based contact dermatitis

6. Daily Scalp Routine for Prevention

Morning:

• Use a breathable cap/helmet liner (if riding)

• Keep hair products light and non-comedogenic

Post-workout:

• Rinse scalp gently if sweaty

• Use a mild medicated wash 2–3 times per week

Night:

• Brush hair lightly before bed

• Apply calming scalp serum (if prescribed)

7. When to Seek a Doctor

If:

• The bumps hurt or recur often

• There’s visible pus, crusting, or spreading patches

• Over-the-counter shampoos don’t help after 3–4 weeks

You may need scalp mapping, trichoscopy, or culture testing to rule out resistant infections or fungal strains.

Scalp acne and folliculitis may be common, but they’re not something you have to live with.

With proper diagnosis, consistent care, and expert support, your scalp can heal and your hair will thank you for it.

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