Scalp folliculitis is an inflammatory disorder of the hair follicles on the scalp. Diseases like scalp folliculitis can result in discomfort and sometimes even pain. It is not something you cannot manage at home and is easily treatable. This article will share scalp folliculitis, its symptoms, what causes this disease, and how to treat folliculitis on the scalp.
What is Scalp Folliculitis?
Hair follicles are the openings in your scalp that hold your hair’s roots. This disease, in particular, is an inflammatory disorder that affects the hair follicles on the scalp. Scalp folliculitis forms follicle bumps on the scalp. This condition can affect all the body parts that have hair growth, especially your scalp.
It is usually caused by a fungal or bacterial infection occurring due to damaging hair follicles, although this condition is not contagious. However, there is a need to be cautious as this disease or infection may spread to other follicles, thus resulting in scarring or permanent hair loss. You can see scalp folliculitis pictures to see what exactly folliculitis bumps on the scalp looks like.
What Are Its Symptoms?
Symptoms of folliculitis scalp infection are very noticeable, thus making it easy to detect if you are suffering from this condition. This condition, at its start, causes small, red bumps as if you are suffering from an acne breakout. It usually begins with your hairline while spreading to other parts of your scalp after a while. If other follicles get the infection, the red bumps may get larger and inflamed. Other primary symptoms of scalp folliculitis that you can easily detect are:
- Itching
- Tenderness or pain
- A stinging or burning sensation
- Sores that drain pus
- Sores with yellowish-brown scabs
- Clusters of tiny, red bumps on your scalp usually have a white tip.
If you detect any of these symptoms on your scalp, it is recommended to take them seriously as it is likely they result from scalp folliculitis.
What Causes Scalp Folliculitis?
Scalp folliculitis is a condition whose primary cause is damaged hair follicles, thus causing bacteria and fungi on your scalp. This results in discomfort, leaving them vulnerable. Many reasons result in scalp folliculitis.
- Frequent Scratching: If you have a habit of frequent scratching and rubbing your head, it is better to stop doing that as it can cause this condition.
- Tugging Your Hair: Tugging or constantly playing with hair by twisting it can also cause this condition.
- Hats/Helmet: If you frequently wear hats or things like a sports helmet, consider wearing them occasionally to avoid any risk of scalp folliculitis.
- Weak Immune System: Having a weak immune system due to other reasons
- Hair Type: If you have curly or coarse hair, this may happen because these hair types are hard and often damage the hair follicle.
- Different Hairstyles: Avoid hairstyles that pull your hair, such as ponytails or braids.
- Excess Use of Hair Products: Excessive use of hair products can result in the build-up, thus the risk of this condition.
- Steroids: Taking certain acne medications that include steroids can damage scalp follicles.
If any of this has caused this condition, you should know how to treat folliculitis scalp.
How to Treat Scalp Folliculitis?
You should know how to treat folliculitis on the scalp at home and treat folliculitis scalp using hair products.
- Lukewarm Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water.
- Hygiene: Wash anything that has come in contact with your scalp.
- Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to your scalp as it gives a soothing effect and drains pus.
- Antibacterial Soap: Use an antibacterial soap if the affected area is along your hairline. Gently wash it and dry it with a clean towel.
- Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Use a folliculitis scalp shampoo that contains antifungal agents as it may help.
- Antibiotic Ointment: To target the bacteria apply an antibiotic ointment to the affected area.
- Cortisone Cream: A cortisone cream can help with inflammation and scalp folliculitis.
When and Why Does Someone Need to See a Doctor?
Scalp folliculitis is easily treatable at home; however, a few cases do worsen and require a doctor’s visit. If you are trying treatments at home that are resulting in no progress or your condition is getting worse, for example, you have attempted home treatments for a couple of days only to see the sores getting worse, it is best to make a doctor’s appointment. Immediately see a doctor if you have a fever over 100F, or your skin is extremally red and painful around the follicles. The doctor will provide you with a prescription to treat your condition.
Final Words
Scalp folliculitis is a condition that can cause immense discomfort; however, scalp folliculitis treatment is easy. But now you know how to get rid of scalp folliculitis; thus, try those methods; if you do not see any improvement or progress, make an appointment and consult a doctor to discuss possible treatments.
A fervent champion for holistic well-being, graces this community with her expertise in health and fitness. With a solid educational foundation in physical fitness and a commitment to empowering others, Sara distills her extensive knowledge and experience into actionable insights. Her writing, firmly grounded in evidence-based practices, aims to demystify health complexities and inspire readers to cultivate sustainable habits for a balanced life. As a certified fitness trainer, Sara offers a well-rounded perspective on wellness. Join Sara on this transformative journey towards a happier, healthier, and more vibrant you.
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