You can stimulate follicles that have stopped producing hair through topical application of minoxidil and finasteride, but it only works for about 10% of the population. Scalp massage, exfoliation, and application of stimulating oils like tea tree can also help.
Truly dead hair follicles are almost impossible to reactivate, except with the help of medical/surgical treatment, so it's important that you take action on your dying hair follicles as soon as you're able – the earlier the better.
Additionally, both Ruggeri and Hill mention that ACV can support hair growth by removing product buildup, especially from commonly used items like dry shampoo. “ACV unblocks follicles in the scalp so that strands have freedom to thrive,” Ruggeri says.
Dr. Zeichner says using an exfoliating product that contains a hydroxy acid like salicylic or glycolic is, "the best way" to open up clogged hair follicles. He explains, "These acids dissolve connections between skin cells so they can be easily shed from the skin. In this way, they open up the pores."
In most cases, the main symptom of folliculitis is red bumps that look like pimples on your skin. These could also look like they're white-filled bumps or they could be filled with pus (pustules). Folliculitis can feel itchy and uncomfortable. Many people feel the need to scratch when they have folliculitis.
Because electrolysis destroys the hair follicle, hair can never grow back. It's effective for the greatest range of skin and hair types. Electrolysis is the only method approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for permanently removing unwanted hair.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy. It's often added to foods,1 and some people also apply it to their skin, scalp, or hair. It's known to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral actions,2 and it may also offer benefits for scalp flaking or thinning hair.
Baking Soda for Hair. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) might be a natural alternative for hair care. Possible benefits include removing excess oil and buildup, softening hair, and restoring pH (acid/base balance). However, this method comes with disadvantages, including the risk of hair damage over time.
Topical drugs.
The FDA has approved minoxidil (Rogaine), available over the counter, as a hair loss treatment for both men and women. It helps thicken hair follicles and promotes hair lengthening. It comes in a liquid or foam that's applied to the scalp.
With this in mind, you might be wondering how to reopen hair follicles to get your hair growing again. There are quite a few ways of stimulating hair follicles, including medications like minoxidil, supplements, and natural remedies like scalp massage.
In the scalp, fungal infections often form circular, scaly, inflamed patches. Frequently, there can be temporary hair loss (hair returns when infection clears but if treatment is delayed and scarring results, permanent hair loss can be seen). This is a classical example of ringworm (tinea capitis) in a young child.
As we mentioned above, it has a highly acidic pH that undiluted could cause irritation, itchiness on the scalp or burn the sensitive skin of the scalp. The best and safest way to use apple cider vinegar for the scalp is by diluting it with water to make a hair rinse.
Scabs on the scalp can emerge due to folliculitis, dermatitis, psoriasis or an allergic reaction to chemical products, like hair dye or or hair treatments. It is rare for scabs to form due to severe health conditions, like skin cancer.
Turmeric is a natural spice that is believed to have hair removal properties. It contains natural chemicals that may be able to slow or stop hair growth by weakening the hair roots.
To remove an ingrown hair, gently exfoliate your skin. Exfoliating your skin removes a dead layer of skin cells and helps release ingrown hairs. Use warm — not hot — water and small, circular motions to wash your affected areas with a washcloth, exfoliating brush or exfoliating gel or scrub.
Tea tree oil contains many beneficial compounds for maintaining scalp health and promoting follicle health. These compounds can help clean clogged hair follicles created by excess dirt or dead skin cells, helping them remain open so new hairs can grow in their place.
A pilonidal cyst is a round sac of tissue that's filled with air or fluid. This common type of cyst is located in the crease of the buttocks and is usually caused by a skin infection. Pilonidal cysts are a common condition, with more than 70,000 cases reported in the U.S. every year.
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.