How to get rid of Scalp Acne?
Scalp acne can be both painful and frustrating. Unlike acne on other parts of the body, scalp acne is hidden under your hair making it harder to reach and treat. But choosing the right natural products can help get rid of your acne and keep it from reoccurring.
In this blog we will look at:
What causes scalp acne?
How to get rid of scalp acne?
Can hair products cause scalp acne?
Can scalp acne cause hair loss?
How long does it take to clear scalp acne?
How to prevent scalp acne reoccurring.
What causes Scalp Acne?
Scalp acne is typically caused by a combination of clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacteria. The scalp naturally produces oils to keep skin and hair healthy, but when these oils combine with dead skin cells, sweat, and hair products, they can clog hair follicles and create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. This build-up can lead to inflamed pimples or cysts on the scalp.
Additional factors:
- Stress
- Not washing the hair thoroughly enough with the right natural sulphate free products
- Waiting too long after intensive exercise to wash the hair
- Certain medications
- Wearing hats or helmets that trap sweat and oil
Understanding these triggers can help in finding ways to prevent and manage scalp breakouts.
How to get rid of Scalp Acne?
To effectively treat scalp acne, it's essential to keep your pores clear, so maintaining a clean scalp is important.
Wash your hair regularly and thoroughly with a natural, sulphate-free, antibacterial shampoo like Tea Tree or Patchouli. These contain ingredients that gently cleanse the scalp, removing excess oil, and preventing bacterial build-up without causing irritation.
How to wash your hair thoroughly with a natural shampoo:
1. Wet hair and apply shampoo.
2. Massage slowly with fingertips, thoroughly working the gel into the scalp (without scratching the scalp) for about 2 minutes. Lather is not important to the cleansing process but working the gel right into the scalp is important.
3. Rinse thoroughly, still massaging with fingertips and repeat the process.
4. Gently towel dry and leave to completely dry naturally if possible (especially if you have an itchy/dry scalp or damaged hair)
If you have dry hair/scalp, use a natural antibacterial hair conditioner.
Can hair products cause Scalp Acne?
Some shampoos and hair products can cause scalp acne by clogging hair follicles. This happens when hair products leave residue on the scalp or contain ingredients that dry out or irritate the skin.
Key ingredients to avoid include:
- Sulphates - These can strip the scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness and potential overproduction of oil as a rebound effect.
- Silicones - Can create build-up on the scalp, clogging hair follicles and trapping oil and dead skin.
- Artificial Fragrances and Dyes - May cause irritation or allergic reactions on sensitive scalps.
- Heavy Waxes - Often found in styling products, these can create a layer of residue on the scalp, blocking follicles and trapping oil and dead skin cells.
- Alcohols - These can be drying and irritating, leading to inflammation and possible acne flare-ups.
Can Scalp Acne cause hair loss?
Scalp acne can sometimes contribute to hair loss, particularly if it becomes severe or is left untreated. Acne on the scalp can inflame hair follicles, potentially leading to a condition called folliculitis, where the hair follicles become infected. Chronic inflammation or infection may weaken the hair shaft or damage the follicle, causing hair to fall out. Additionally, excessive scratching or picking at scalp acne can further irritate the area and exacerbate hair loss. Prompt treatment and proper scalp care can help manage acne and reduce the risk of hair loss.
How long does it take to clear Scalp Acne?
Clearing scalp acne can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may start to improve within two to four weeks with consistent use of gentle, natural antibacterial or anti-inflammatory treatments like tea tree oil products. For more severe or cystic forms of scalp acne, it may take longer.
How to prevent Scalp Acne reoccurring
- Wash your hair regularly with a natural sulphate free shampoo.
- Stop using stay in hair products.
- Avoid head coverings.
- Wash your hair as soon as possible after exercise.
Consistency is key, as disrupting a routine or using harsh products can set back progress. It’s also important to maintain a balanced diet and manage stress, as these factors can influence how quickly acne clears.
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