Acne Health and Prevention

Posts Tagged ‘scalp acne’

Scalp acne is an irritating condition that can affect both men and women alike, because this area is covered with hair growth it can prove more difficult to treat it here with typical acne treatments that can be used freely on other parts of the body

The cause of acne can is usually attributed to skin pores becoming blocked and infected with bacteria triggering outbreaks, and the scalp is no different in this respect; additionally by nature of its position the scalp is not kept as oil-free as the face because it does not usually receive the same attention.

A build up of natural oil, dead skin calls and hair product residues all contribute to providing a breeding ground for scalp acne bacteria in base of the hair follicles.

For the majority of people scalp acne is not normally that serious and it can be cleared with nothing more than a good medicated shampoo, however like with any form of acne it is important to take action to stop it getting any worse.

Traditional creams are obviously out and benzoyl peroxide is not usually an option either as it may change hair color; this may be desirable for teenagers but for the majority it is unacceptable.

It may be possible to get away with using a weak concentration but it is advisable not to risk it, although it could be tested first for its effect on a lock of hair taken after a haircut.

The scalp needs to be kept scrupulously clean, and this may mean more frequent washing of the hair than normal, however over-washing can aggravate acne by drying the skin so it is important to use a very gentle shampoo for this.

A shampoo formulated for use on infants is arguably the mildest type of product.

Alternatively a product containing Tea tree oil would also likely to be of benefit; this natural product has many applications for any number of complaints and as it is a natural bactericide it is definitely worth giving this a try to see if this has any effect.

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