If your scalp itches a lot, you may develop scabs or crusting over the bumps from scratching them. Scalp folliculitis can have many causes, including bacterial infection, a buildup of yeast in your scalp, or a reaction to tiny mites that live on your scalp.
In some cases, you might get blisters or dry, flaking skin. Rashes caused by contact dermatitis usually clear up on their own in 2-4 weeks, but your symptoms might last longer if you don’t identify and remove the cause of the irritation right away.
For example, you might develop hives on your scalp after exercising or wearing a tight hat or headband. Hives can be extremely itchy. They might also disappear and reappear very quickly, or change size or shape. Other inflammatory reactions, like lichen planus, can also cause bumps on your scalp. Lichen planus typically causes tiny bumps, a painful red rash, and sometimes hair loss. [5] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
Most viral rashes clear up on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks. If your rash starts to get worse instead of better, or if you develop severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a high fever, or pain and stiffness in your neck, see a doctor right away.
Nits are the eggs of head lice. They often become easier to see once they hatch, since empty nits are lighter in color. You might also see the lice themselves, although they are typically harder to spot. They are tiny grey or tan insects, about the size of a sesame seed.
Cysts are usually harmless and often go away on their own without treatment. However, it’s always a good idea to get an unusual lump or growth checked out by a doctor or dermatologist. In rare cases, a growth like this may turn out to be skin cancer. [12] X Research source
A warm compress can also help drain a pustule or cyst. As an alternative to saltwater, try mixing 1. 5 cups (350 ml) of warm water with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of vinegar. Use this mixture 3-6 times a day. The vinegar’s antimicrobial properties may help clear up any infections in your scalp. [14] X Research source Use a fresh, clean washcloth every time you apply a warm compress. Don’t use the same washcloth to clean other areas of your skin, since you might spread the infection.
Scalp irritation can be a sign of either over- or under-washing your hair, so experiment with your normal shampooing schedule. You may need to wash your hair more often if you have an oily scalp, or less often if it’s dry. [16] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Heat or friction on your scalp can contribute to problems like folliculitis or hives. [18] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
If the bumps on your scalp are caused by shaving, they should clear up within a few weeks after you stop shaving. You can reduce your chance of developing razor burn or folliculitis by using an electric razor and properly lubricating your hair and skin with warm water and a gentle shaving gel. [20] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
There’s some evidence that tea tree oil can help fight the bacteria or fungi that contribute to a variety of skin conditions, including folliculitis. Try a shampoo or conditioner containing tea tree oil, or add a few drops to your favorite conditioner. [23] X Research source You can also try putting an antibacterial ointment on the affected skin or washing it with an antibacterial soap, but this will only help if your folliculitis is caused by bacteria (as opposed to yeast or fungus). [24] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Soothing anti-itch creams may help relieve discomfort and prevent further irritation caused by scratching.
Look for shampoos and other hair products that are marked “hypoallergenic,” “sensitive,” or “free and clear. ” Avoid products that contain dyes and perfumes. Check the ingredients list carefully for any ingredients you know you’re allergic to. Aside from fragrance, some other common allergens in shampoo include cocamidopropyl betaine, methylchloroisothiazolinone, formaldehyde releasing preservatives, propylene glycol, parabens, and vitamin E. [26] X Research source
Vitamin B Zinc Omega-3 fatty acids
You can also remove many of the lice and nits from your hair using a fine-tooth nit comb. Wet your hair and add some conditioner or an oil, such as olive oil, to help lubricate the hair. The oil might also help smother and kill the lice. [29] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source You can buy head lice treatments and combs at most drug stores. Once you get rid of the lice, the bumps and itching should clear up.
Let your doctor know when the symptoms started and if you’ve experienced any recent health or lifestyle changes that might be related. Give them a full list of any medications or supplements you’re taking, since this may help them pinpoint the cause of the problem. They may also need this information to figure out what medicines they can safely prescribe.
Increasing pain, swelling, warmth, or tenderness in the affected area A fever or a general feeling of being unwell Pus or other discharge draining from the bumps Red streaks moving away from the affected area
Don’t combine prescription and over-the-counter treatments unless your doctor says it’s okay. If you’re taking an antibiotic or antifungal medication, finish the complete course of medication unless your doctor tells you to do otherwise. Stopping the medication too early could cause the infection to come back or get worse.
If your doctor suspects skin cancer, they may take a biopsy, or tissue sample, for testing. They’ll give you a local anesthetic to numb the area so you don’t feel any pain. Try not to worry if you find an unusual lump or mole on your scalp. Most skin cancers are very treatable if you catch and treat them early. [34] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
