Scalp Irregularities: Origins, Signs, and Remedies
Bumps on your scalp can be a cause for concern, but understanding the various conditions that may cause them can help alleviate worry. This article aims to provide an overview of common scalp conditions that result in bumps and their respective treatments.
One common condition is folliculitis, an inflammation of hair follicles that presents as pus-filled bumps, sore or itchy, sometimes spreading. Causes range from bacterial or fungal infections, irritation from shaving, heavy hair products, or sweating. Treatment typically involves topical or oral antibiotics if bacterial, anti-inflammatory steroids if not infectious, warm compresses, and antibacterial shampoos [1].
Scalp acne occurs when pores or hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells or oil, resulting in painful bumps often near the hairline or nape. Factors such as a buildup of hair products, infrequent or ineffective hair washing, sweating in a hat or beanie, and regular delays between working out and washing the hair may contribute to its development. Treatment includes regular washing, antibacterial shampoos, and controlling oil production, with medical treatment advised for persistent cases [2].
Another condition is psoriasis, which causes inflamed, sometimes thickened patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales. While not directly causing bumps, these patches can appear bumpy in texture and may be itchy. Treatment for scalp psoriasis involves medicated shampoos, topical steroids, and prescription treatments for psoriasis [1].
Eczema, particularly seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis, can also affect the scalp. These conditions cause red, flaky, itchy patches, sometimes bumpy and scaly. Treatment for eczema on the scalp may involve medicated shampoos, creams, or ointments [3].
Pilar cysts are fluid-filled cysts that develop on the scalp and contain excess keratin. They are generally not painful, but can be tender if infected. Treatment is usually not necessary unless the cyst becomes infected or is cosmetically concerning, at which point surgical removal may be considered [1].
Fungal infections, such as ringworm/tinea capitis, can cause circular patches, scaling, sometimes red bumps, and may cause hair loss. Treatment involves antifungal medications (oral and topical) [1].
Allergic contact dermatitis can cause itchiness, a burning sensation, and sometimes blistering. This condition is caused by an allergen or irritant, often found in hair products. Treatment includes avoiding triggers, topical corticosteroids, and antihistamines for itch relief [1].
Hives on the scalp are raised, itchy red bumps due to an allergic reaction. Treatment involves antihistamines, avoiding allergens, and topical steroids if needed [1].
Lupus-related scalp rash may appear as red or purple bumps/lesions and may cause dark spots or scarring but usually is not itchy. Treatment requires medical evaluation and systemic lupus erythematosus treatments [1].
Proper scalp hygiene, avoiding irritants like harsh chemicals or tight hats, and using medicated shampoos suited to specific conditions can help manage most scalp bumps. For infectious or persistent lesions, diagnosis by a healthcare professional is important to guide antibiotic, antifungal, or anti-inflammatory treatments. If symptoms worsen or do not improve with standard care, visiting a dermatologist is recommended for accurate diagnosis and specialized treatment [1][2][3][5].
It's essential to remember that while this article provides an overview of common scalp conditions, it is not exhaustive. Skin cancer can appear on the scalp in various forms, and any unusual growths or symptoms of ringworm or atopic dermatitis should be addressed by a healthcare professional [4].
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021, February 16). Scalp problems. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scalp-problems/symptoms-causes/syc-20375880
[2] AAD. (2021, January 18). Scalp acne. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/scalp-acne
[3] AAD. (2021, January 18). Eczema. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema
[4] AAD. (2021, January 18). Scalp conditions. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-scalp/conditions/scalp-conditions
[5] AAD. (2021, January 18). Ringworm. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scalp-hair/conditions/ringworm
- A common medical-condition, derived from fungi, known as ringworm/tinea capitis, can cause scalp bumps and even hair loss.
- Diabetes type 1 or type 2, a health-and-wellness concern, has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of skin-care conditions, including psoriasis.
- In addition to folliculitis, scalp acne is another skin concern that leads to bumps, often near the hairline or nape, due to clogged pores or hair follicles.
- While typically not causing bumps, psoriasis can result in inflamed, sometimes thickened patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales on the scalp.
- Healthcare professionals may diagnose and treat conditions such as obesity, depression, or cancer, but they also play a crucial role in managing scalp conditions that result in bumps.
- Like psoriasis, eczema, particularly seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis, can cause red, flaky, itchy patches, sometimes bumpy and scaly, on the scalp.
- Hives, raised, itchy red bumps due to an allergic reaction, can also appear on the scalp, and treatment involves antihistamines, avoiding allergens, and topical steroids if needed.
- Lice infestation can lead to small, itchy bumps on the scalp, and prompt treatment is essential to prevent the spread of these parasites.
- Fungal infections, including fungal infection of the skin, can cause various symptoms, such as circular patches, scaling, and sometimes red bumps on the scalp, necessitating antifungal medications.
