Red bumps that appear on your scalp are most likely because of a condition known as folliculitis, notes the New Zealand Dermatological Society. This skin disorder is characterized by small red bumps that develop around your hair follicles. The bumps can be itchy and inflamed, and may ooze or fill with pus. In most cases, the disorder will resolve on its own.
Causes
The causes of scalp folliculitis are not completely understood, although several factors are thought to play a role in its development. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, the disorder develops because of the inflammation of your hair follicles when they become infected by bacteria, fungi or certain viruses. An infection caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria is the most common reason that scalp folliculitis develops.
Types
There are two main types of folliculitis, according to MayoClinic.com. Superficial folliculitis is characterized by small red bumps that can be inflamed or filled with pus, causing itchiness and scalp tenderness. Deep folliculitis occurs deeper in the hair follicle and can result in larger bumps that cause pain or fill with pus and break open.
Home Remedies
Although many cases of scalp folliculitis will resolve on their own, there are some steps you can take to help your condition resolve more quickly. Using certain home remedies and self-care measures are generally effective for treating mild cases of scalp folliculitis, according to MayoClinic.com. Some of the things you can do to help the condition clear up faster include applying a warm compress to the affected area to help relieve discomfort, using an over-the-counter anti-itch cream containing hydrocortisone and keeping your scalp clean by washing with a gentle shampoo twice daily.
Medical Treatment
If your condition doesn't respond to self-care measures or becomes worse, you may need to consult your doctor or dermatologist. Certain prescription medications may help to alleviate your symptoms. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, topical antibiotic or steroid creams, oral antibiotics and oral antihistamines may be beneficial for treating scalp folliculitis.
Warning
Consult a dermatologist to obtain a proper diagnosis. Sometimes, severe cases of scalp folliculitis can develop into serious bacterial infections or cause permanent hair loss, according to MayoClinic.com. Your doctor can provide you with information about the appropriate course of treatment for your condition.
