Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting about 60 million Americans, according to the Acne Resource Center. Pimples form when the hair follicle becomes clogged with sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria. When acne occurs around the hairline, it's known as scalp folliculitis, which is caused by increased oil production, accumulation of dirt and bacteria and dry, flaky skin. To treat hairline acne, it's helpful to use an acne-fighting shampoo.
Causes
The Acne Resource Center explains that the top causes of acne are genetics, hormones, oil-based skin products and cosmetics. While these causes factor into the formation of hairline acne, scalp folliculitis also has its own particular causes, which include infrequent hair and scalp cleanliness and using hair-care products that block pores.
Treatment
To treat and prevent breakouts, apply benzoyl peroxide to your hairline, not just to individual pimples. Also, apply the benzoyl peroxide between breakouts, which will prevent new pimples from forming. Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication that kills P. acne, the bacteria that cause acne to develop. Shampoo your hair every day. If this dries out your hair too much, you can use a conditioner to add moisture. You can also use a medicated shampoo containing salicylic acid. Shampoo with salicylic acid is typically used to treat dandruff; however, salicylic acid is a topical acne medication that slows dead skin cells from shedding and clogging pores. Also, wash your face and hairline twice a day. Keeping your skin clean with soap and water can minimize oil production from your pores.
Hair Care
Avoid using hair care products that make your hair and scalp oily. "Cosmopolitan" magazine reports that gels made with mineral oils can clog pores on your scalp. In addition to using a shampoo with salicylic acid, Dermnet NZ suggests using antifungal shampoos containing ketoconazole or ciclopirox, which can reduce the yeast in your scalp that may lead to breakouts.
Medication
Topical medications for treating scalp folliculitis include clindamycin or erythromycin solutions, which are antibiotics that kill bacteria. These come in topical gels. For more severe acne, you can take an oral antibiotic. A mild, topical steroid can reduce inflammation caused by acne, and for severe cases, your doctor can give you cortisone shots directly into the acne lesion. Oral isotretinoin is an oral acne medication taken for severe, unmanageable breakouts.
Warnings
No matter where you break out, if your skin does not respond to washing with soap and water and using a topical, over-the-counter medication like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid after about six weeks, you can talk to your doctor about a more aggressive skin treatment regimen. You can use prescription medications to kill bacteria more effectively, control hormonal effects on your sebaceous glands and reduce oil production. If you do not treat moderate to severe acne, permanent scarring can occur.
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