Got an itchy scalp? You’re not alone. The truth is that itchy scalp bumps affect more of us than most of us realize, and while they’re annoying, they’re usually nothing majorly serious. The reason why your scalp itches can stem from a variety of different causes, but the good news is although the discomfort may seem like it’s here to stay, the right topical treatments can make a world of day and reinstate balance to your scalp. But before you can kiss an itchy bumps on scalp it brings goodbye; you’ll need to understand what’s causing them in the first place. So, if itchy scalp bumps prevent you from having your best hair days, here’s everything you need to know about why they occur and how to relieve your scalp.
Table of Contents:
- What Causes Scalp Bumps?
- How Can I Treat Scalp Bumps and Itchiness?
- What Are the Best Products for Scalp Bumps?
- Tips for Applying Scalp Products
- The Bottom Line
What Causes Scalp Bumps?
There’s not just one reason why itchy scalp bumps form. They’re usually the result of anything from dandruff, an allergic reaction, or lice to scalp acne, psoriasis, eczema, or dermatitis. Most scalp bumps are some iteration of a clogged hair follicle on the scalp, which can develop into a pimple over time. While most scalp pimples, which are isolated and consist of just one or a small cluster, pop up along the hairline, they can also take up residence anywhere on the scalp. If psoriasis is the cause of scalp bumps, you may see red, thick patches of skin that are more painful than a pimple. Similar to scalp psoriasis is scalp eczema. It, too, causes thick, red patches of skin to develop that can be inflamed, dry, and itchy. Scalp psoriasis and eczema are easily confused with acne, so it’s always a good idea to have your dermatologist assess what is happening.
Scalp bumps can affect everyone, but if your scalp is sweaty, you have oily hair, or you use heavy hair products regularly, you may experience scalp acne more than others.
How Can I Treat Scalp Bumps and Itchiness?
If you’re wondering how to treat itchy scalp, it’s pretty simple and straightforward. But, if you leave the bumps and itchiness alone, chances are the symptoms may fester and the bump can worsen, so scalp bump treatment is always recommended. While the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) shares that some people may develop bumps or pimples on their scalp when using certain shampoos, conditioners, or hairsprays, an easy to treat scalp bumps is to cut those products out of your haircare routine. It’s also worth trying to shampoo your hair more thoroughly with noncomedogenic and hypoallergenic hair products.
You can buy many different scalp acne products over the counter to alleviate itchy scalp bumps. The most effective ones contain ingredients such as salicylic and glycol acid, both of which help exfoliate the scalp to remove dead skin cells that can block the hair follicle, ketoconazole and ciclopirox, which are antifungal ingredients, and even benzoyl peroxide to help reduce acne-causing bacteria on the scalp. If products with these ingredients don’t cut it, a trip to your dermatologist may be necessary to properly diagnose the issue and ensure it doesn’t worsen and lead to scalp inflammation. Some more commonly doctor-prescribed courses of action include topical and oral antibiotics, steroid injections, antihistamines for allergic reactions, light therapy, and prescript acne medications.
Related Article: Scalp Impetigo: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Strategies
What Are the Best Products for Scalp Bumps?
Usually, the best course of action is a combination approach consisting of appropriate shampoos, creams, and ointments. Some of our favorite scalp treatments and scalp bump treatments include the following: