Scalp sores can develop from many skin conditions or as a symptom of a scalp infection. Bacteria, germs and some types of fungus can infect the scalp. Most scalp sores localize to certain areas of the scalp but some may cause widespread outbreaks. Certain skin care products can also aggravate the condition. A health care provider can assist in diagnosing and treating the cause of scalp sores.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles. It most often occurs from Staphylococcus bacteria that infects damaged hair follicles. Damage to hair follicles can develop from shaving, friction from clothing, abrasions or preexisting skin conditions. Folliculitis can affect upper parts of the hair follicle or deepen into the hair follicle. Common symptoms of folliculitis include itching, rash, tenderness, inflamed skin, sores and pus-filled blisters that break open. Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center warns that the condition can affect anyone at any age and can spread from person to person because of the contagious bacteria that infect the hair follicles. Risk factors for folliculitis include living in unsanitary conditions, wearing tight clothing, heat and chronic skin conditions.
Tinea Capitis
Tinea capitis, or ringworm of the scalp, occurs from fungal infections of the scalp. Various types of fungus can cause the condition, but it most often develops from dermatophytes that invade the hair shaft. Like most types of fungi, dermatophytes thrive in warm, humid environments and are difficult to avoid. Tinea capitis occurs most often in children aged 3 to 7, although anyone is susceptible, notes DermNet NZ. This form of ringworm can spread from animal to person, person to person or object to person. Symptoms of tinea capitis include brittle hair, tenderness, round patches of scaly skin, irritation, swelling and sores at the scalp. The condition can cause permanent hair loss if not treated.
Scalp Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes skin cell growth acceleration. It occurs from abnormal immune reactions that produce rapid skin cell production in a matter of days, rather than its typical four-week time frame. The reaction to skin cell acceleration causes itching, soreness, red patches, silvery scaling, cracked skin and sores that may bleed. The National Psoriasis Foundation reports that at least half of all people who have psoriasis have it on the scalp. Anyone can develop the skin condition, but family history, stress, obesity and weakened immune systems can make some more susceptible.
