The exact cause of acne on the scalp is not known. Some cases may be due to an allergic reaction to shampoos and similar products. Others may be caused by micro-organisms such as mites, yeast or bacteria on the scalp. Regardless, the pimples can be itchy, painful and difficult to treat topically as they are usually buried under the hair.
Treating Acne on the Scalp
If you have a mild case of scalp acne caused by allergies, you may need only take an over-the-counter antihistamine and practice good scalp hygiene with hypo-allergenic hair products that won’t irritate your scalp.
You can try applying an over-the-counter acne medicine such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to the pimples. These work by removing the dirt and oil clogging the pores in your scalp. They should be applied after you have washed your hair. These medicines can be dehydrating and could potentially bleach the hair. So be careful to apply the medicine only to the affected area and not all over your hair.
You can try using an over-the-counter medicated shampoo with antibacterial properties; such as one that contains tar, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, sulfur, and/or salicylic acid. Ask your dermatologist or doctor for more information about these products.
If your case if more severe, you may need to try a prescription medicine, such as an oral steroid, to ease your symptoms. In this case, you need to visit your doctor or dermatologist. You may also need treatment with topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin solutions. Oral antibiotics like tetracycline might also be required.