How do I prevent acne on my scalp?

Author: Caterina Kohler MD  |  Last update: Monday, January 26, 2026

How can I prevent scalp acne?
  1. Washing your hair daily or when it becomes greasy, especially after you exercise or sweat.
  2. Using hair care products that are oil-free, noncomedogenic and non-acnegenic.
  3. Regularly washing headwear like hats or pillowcases that could hold residue from products that touch your hair.

Why do I keep getting acne on my scalp?

Your scalp is full of hair follicles and oil glands. If the follicle or pore becomes clogged with dirt and oil, this can lead to acne. You can still get scalp acne even if you have good hygiene, but sweat, oil, and dirt buildup from improper or incomplete washing can lead to clogged pores.

What brings pimples to a head?

Applying a warm compress can help treat a blind pimple. The heat can open up pores, which may draw the pimple closer to the skin's surface and create a head. The formation of a head enables the sebum, cells, and bacteria to exit the skin. The heat from the compress can also help relieve pain.

Which vitamin deficiency causes scalp acne?

A 2016 study found that people with acne have lower levels of vitamin D than those without the skin condition. This deficiency may be a factor in the development of acne. According to a study from 2014, Vitamin D also blocks P. acnes from affecting skin cells.

What home remedy is good for scalp acne?

Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is a well-liked all-natural treatment for scalp acne because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be applied directly to the scalp or added to shampoo for added benefit.

GET RID OF TINY BUMPS ON FOREHEAD FAST | HOW TO TREAT FUNGAL ACNE (MALASSEZIA) | BEING MRS DUDLEY

How do you control scalp acne?

Prevention
  1. Washing your hair daily or when it becomes greasy, especially after you exercise or sweat.
  2. Using hair care products that are oil-free, noncomedogenic and non-acnegenic.
  3. Regularly washing headwear like hats or pillowcases that could hold residue from products that touch your hair.
  4. Managing your stress.

What does B12 acne look like?

High-dose vitamins B6 and B12 have also been linked to rosacea fulminans, a condition that looks like acne. Rosacea is marked by large red bumps and pustules that typically appear on the nose, chin, and/or cheeks.

What disease causes pimples on scalp?

Folliculitis is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles become inflamed. It's often caused by an infection with bacteria. At first it may look like small pimples around the tiny pockets from where each hair grows (hair follicles). The condition can be itchy, sore and embarrassing.

How do I stop pimples from growing on my head?

Preventing scalp acne

A person can try washing their hair whenever it starts to feel oily and after every workout. To treat scalp acne and prevent further flare-ups, a person can consider: wearing looser-fitting headgear to let the scalp breathe. washing hair soon after exercise.

What is the best shampoo for scalp acne?

Selected. Our top picks
  • Best overall. Dove Dermacare Shampoo. $undefined. $4.84. ...
  • Best splurge. CLn Shampoo. $undefined. $36.00. ...
  • Best for oily hair. Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Shampoo. $3.99. $5.49. ...
  • Best for dry scalps. Neutrogena Therapeutic Shampoo. $7.32. $10.48. ...
  • Best color-safe. Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo. $undefined.

How do you draw out a blind pimple?

Apply warm compresses: Place a warm, wet washcloth over the area and hold it there for about 10 minutes, several times a day. Make sure the washcloth isn't too hot. The warmth encourages pus to dissolve or come to the surface.

What shampoo is good for clogged hair follicles?

“For someone with a more oily scalp, scales, and clogged pores, one can start with over-the-counter Nizoral (1% ketoconazole) shampoo—or get the prescription strength 2% ketoconazole from your dermatologist,” Dr. Kobets says.

How to get rid of sebum on scalp?

For those who prefer natural remedies, try rinsing with apple cider vinegar (diluted with water), applying aloe vera, or using tea tree oil to reduce sebum. These remedies can gently clarify and soothe the scalp without stripping essential oils.

What does it mean when you get acne on your for head?

Factors that can contribute to the forehead breaking out include hormonal changes, stress, and medication use. Acne does not pose any serious health risks, but people may think that it appears unattractive, and it can cause discomfort.

What kills folliculitis naturally?

Essential Oils. Tea tree oil, neem oil, geranium oil, grapefruit seed oil are very effective in treating folliculitis. Tea tree oil can be added to your shampoo, lotion or body wash. Rub it gently onto the affected area and let it sit.

How often should I wash my hair with folliculitis?

Self-Care for Folliculitis

Mild folliculitis might go away without any medical treatment. To help yourself heal and ease symptoms, you can: Clean the infected area. Wash twice a day with warm water and antibacterial soap.

Can shampoo cause acne on the scalp?

Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products can cause whiteheads and other types of acne in these areas. The bumps can be so subtle that you can feel but not see them. Some people develop numerous, closely packed bumps that they can see. Even if you've never had acne, hair care products can cause breakouts.

What vitamin deficiency causes acne?

A Vitamin B deficiency can wreak havoc on your skin, causing acne, rashes, dry and flaky skin, cracked lips, and wrinkles. It can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, personal care products, and other potential aggressors, and can accordingly lead to redness and irritation.

Can B12 cause weight gain?

Contrary to common assumptions, Vitamin B12 deficiency doesn't directly lead to weight gain. However, it can indirectly influence weight through its impact on energy metabolism. Insufficient B12 can lead to fatigue and weakness, which may reduce physical activity levels and, in turn, lead to weight gain.

What are the facial signs of B12 deficiency?

The deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause specific skin manifestations, such as hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair and nail changes [1].

Why do I get hard pimples on my scalp?

Causes range from clogged pores to inflamed hair follicles and excessive sebum (natural skin oil) production. Other problems, like fluctuating hormone levels, stress, and genetics can contribute to pimples on the scalp.

Does apple cider vinegar unclog hair follicles?

Apple Cider Vinegar keeps scalp and hair pH balanced and works to seal the hair's cuticle for increased shine. It also helps to gently exfoliate the scalp and unclog hair follicles.

How to do a scalp detox?

How to Detox Your Scalp At Home
  1. Dampen Hair. Start by lightly dampening your hair and scalp with lukewarm water.
  2. Apply a Detoxing Product. Reach for a chemical or physical scalp exfoliator and apply liberally. ...
  3. Massage. ...
  4. Wait. ...
  5. Massage & Rinse. ...
  6. Shampoo & Condition.

Previous article
Is bacon bad for bulking?
Next article
When can I sit after fat transfer?