Acne Care – Head Acne

The pimples and rashes, which can occur on the head, may not necessarily be due to P.Acne bacteria. Other agents, such as Staphylococcus Bacteria, mites and fungus, can also cause the appearance of an acne like condition. Basically, the condition, should be diagnosed by a GP, so that the correct treatment can be given. A fungal infection will show no response to acne lotions and shampoos, and is very stubborn. Bacterial infections may need antibiotics and steroids, whilst a mite infection will respond to medicated shampoos.

The scalp pimples due to acne, appear as small inflammatory areas, surrounding a hair follicle. The oil gland opens onto the hair follicle, which becomes inflamed, a condition called folliculitis.

The key to controlling this condition, is to keep the hair and scalp, as clean as possible. Using an ordinary medicated shampoo, for oily hair helps. PH balancing shampoos and fruit shampoos, are also known to be effective. Frequent washing is recommended. The condition also responds to Acid Sal. solutions. However, caution is advised in the use of Benzyl Peroxide products, on the scalp. These have been known to strip and dehydrate the scalp, with adverse effects on hair growth.

Keep all hairbrushes and combs clean and personal to you. Try to avoid wearing hair products, such as gels, as these may irritate the condition. Wearing hats, as little as possible also helps to minimise the spread of the bacteria. Oil and sweat from the head, can also build up on pillowcases, which bacteria will thrive on, so change pillowcases daily if possible.

Copper Oxide pillowcases specifically designed for skin conditions have been developed. They draw moisture from the skin, which release copper ions, or charged atoms, from the pillowcase. This stimulates the production of collagen. However, the efficacy of these pillowcases, is still being determined.

Information written by Christine Burden TalkAcne Web Page Manager