If you’ve ever run your fingers through you hair and felt a pimple on your scalp, you probably thought that was weird. It’s actually not as weird as you may think. In fact, scalp acne is almost as common as face acne. It happens because the scalp is inflamed due to clogged hair follicles or excess sebum. On the up side, scalp acne is manageable with the right cleansing habits and ingredients.
What Causes Scalp Acne?
Scalp acne is caused by hormone imbalance and diet for women. Heavy products like conditioners that contain wax can also be a cause. While some people are more prone to acne on the scalp, others experience an occasional pimple. When hormones change such as menopause, menstrual cycle, pregnancy or puberty, usually there are acne breakouts.
How To Treat Acne On The Scalp
Scalp acne can sometimes be difficult to treat because the hair is laying on the scalp. But there are certain ingredients that can help heal these areas as well as manage the inflammation.
Look For These Ingredients
Zinc, retinol, tea tree oil, and salicylic are helpful in keeping scalp breakouts under control. Talk to your doctor about your scalp concern for the appropriate prescribed medications.
If you’re taking birth control pills that only contain progestin, it can make acne worse. And acne induced by hormone imbalance is difficult to treat. However, low dose estrogen and progestin birth control pills, receptor blockers, and androgen pills may help with regulating hormones.
Consider Using Facial Products
Products like salicylic acid and retinol that you would use on your face, are fine to use on your scalp. Salicylic acid slows bacterial growth, while retinol will increase cellular turnover.
Preventing Future Breakouts
Regulating your hormones is very important when it comes to preventing future breakouts. Not using heavy conditioners and adding antibacterial ingredients to your scalp care daily routine will also help prevent flare-ups. Always apply conditioner only to the ends of the hair. When using a medicated shampoo, apply it only to the scalp and let it sit for about five minutes to give the ingredients time to activate and work.
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