Scalp Folliculitis

Folliculitis is the medical term for the infection and inflammation of hair follicles. This condition can affect hair and skin of any part of the body including, the scalp. Scalp folliculitis can cause infection of the hair follicles and the appearance of some small, white or yellowish pustules, that resemble acne. The pustules can be quite itchy at times. A severe case can cause the development of large and hard bumps on scalp, that can lead to scarring and hair loss.

Causes of Scalp Folliculitis

It can be caused by several factors, out of which hair follicle infection, caused by bacteria, yeast and mites are the most common factors. Such infections can damage the hair follicles, and cause the development of bumps or pustules on the scalp. This condition can be more common in an oily scalp, as excess oil can clog the sebaceous glands, which increases the chances of getting bacterial infection. The bacteria that are frequently found to be responsible for causing scalp folliculitis are, Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus bacterium.

Apart from bacterial and fungal infection, several other factors too can contribute towards the development of scalp folliculitis. Such factors include, excessive sweating, excessive heat and humidity, exposure to harsh chemicals, wearing tight fitting hats, lack of proper hygiene, skin conditions like, dermatitis and eczema, and certain health problems such as, diabetes. People with a compromised immune system, as well as those receiving cancer treatment have also been found to be more susceptible to this condition.

Scalp Folliculitis Symptoms

The most distinguishing symptom or characteristic of scalp folliculitis is the appearance of small, itchy pustules or bumps on the scalp. Such bumps can be more frequently found along the front hairline. Sometimes, the pustules can be quite large in size, and may remain filled with yellow pus. Such large pus filled pustules can be quite painful, and they can rupture, releasing the pus on the surrounding skin.

The small pustules usually heal on their own without causing scarring. But, the large pus filled pustules can harden and sometimes, lead to scarring and hair loss. Folliculitis, in general can be superficial and deep. The superficial folliculitis manifest in small bumps or pustules. Deep folliculitis on the other hand, can cause infection of the entire follicle or deeper portion of it, which can eventually lead to inflammation and scarring of the affected area.

How to Treat Scalp Folliculitis

A mild case can be usually managed with regular cleaning with a mild shampoo. If you have an oily scalp, you can try a shampoo with zinc, that helps to control sebum production. Shampoos with salicylic acid, as well as anti-dandruff shampoos with antifungal agents like ketoconazole or ciclopirox can also help to treat this condition. Try to keep your head as clean and oil free as possible, with the help of regular cleaning and the use of the appropriate shampoos.

A case of severe and chronic scalp folliculitis can however, require the application of appropriate medication, along with regular cleaning or shampooing. Usually, topical antibiotic preparations and mild steroid creams or ointments can help significantly to control the outbreak. But sometimes, the situation may call for the intake of oral antibiotics and oral antihistamine drugs. Whenever a large area of the scalp is affected, or the condition leads to severe infection, be sure to consult your physician. Also, talk to your physician before using any kind of medication for the treatment.

Scalp folliculitis is a highly contagious condition. To prevent the spread of the condition, one should never share his or her personal items like, towels, combs or brushes, and hair accessories with other individuals. Also important is to use only clean towels to dry your hair, and comb your hair very gently, so as to not irritate the pustules. In most of the time, such simple steps along with regular cleaning or shampooing, and maintenance of proper hygiene can manage scalp folliculitis. However, if the condition looks alarming, and it affects the entire or a large area of the scalp, then consider taking the help of your physician.