How to Deal With Scalp Acne

Acne affects many people all over the world, but when most people think of acne, they think of little red pimples on the facial skin. What a lot of people do not realize, is that acne can affect other parts of the body, such as scalp acne. This fairly new form of acne appears only the scalp of the affected person, and appears to be triggered by many of the same factors as other forms of acne.

The most commonly used dermatological term for scalp acne is scalp folliculitis. The general translation means “inflammation of the scalp’s hair follicles.” There are however, a few other accepted scientific names, most notably proprionibacterium acne folliculitis and acne necrotica miliaris. which means inflammation of the hair follicles.

The symptoms of scalp acne are very similar to most other forms of acne. Small red pustules, or pimples, appear on the affected persons scalp. Other than the location of the outbreaks, the most noticeable difference from other forms of acne, is the intense itchiness, especially across the front of the hairline. It becomes very difficult to not scratch the pimples, though scratching makes the situation much worse. In addition to helping spread the acne-causing bacteria to other parts of the scalp, scratching can become very painful and can even cause permanent scarring. Another unfortunate part of scalp acne, is that it takes a long time to clear up. A typical outbreak can take a month or more to clear up.

Like most other forms of acne, high levels of stress can lead to increased outbreaks of scalp acne. Not washing your hair regularly or using oily hair products can also contribute to the frequency and severity of your acne. If you touch your hair or scalp with your hands frequently, the oils from your skin can irritate and worsen the acne infections.

One of the simplest and most effective scalp acne treatments is a typical mild shampoo. Avoid using special anti-dandruff shampoo, as the chemicals are too harsh, and it they can worsen the acne. Use of a good conditioner is fine, just make sure it does not contain too many oils. If you use hair styling products, try to use gentle, all natural, oil free products.

In addition to using a gentle shampoo and hair styling products, there are many different scalp acne products on the market. Some of these are actually topical antibiotics that are applied directly to the scalp, such as erythromycin and clindamycin solutions. These are generally very effective, as they combat the cause of the acne, right at the source of the problem. They wash away the oils, and kill off acne causing bacteria to leave your scalp clean and acne free.

If you are experiencing scalp acne, do not leave it untreated. Without the proper care, it can become very severe – potentially leading to scarring and permanent damage to the hair follicles. If you are unsure of your condition, seek the help of a professional dermatologist, who can properly diagnose you and recommend the best possible treatment options for your situation.

Common Natural Acne Treatments

There are many different types of acne treatments from prescription only medical solutions to natural acne treatment, and a wide range of products in between. For many people, the stronger the acne treatment, the worse the results. Since acne can be triggered by irritation of the skin, many of the harsh chemicals used in anti-acne products can make your acne much worse. If you find this is true for you, you should look into using a natural acne treatment.

One of the most effective ways to prevent acne, is simply living a healthy lifestyle. Proper nutrition and exercise regulate hormonal imbalances and flush out harmful toxins, leading to healthy clear skin. This is the foundation of fighting acne with natural methods.

Keeping the skin clean is also essential to acne free skin. Washing your face twice a day with a natural glycerin soap will remove the dirt and oils responsible for clogging your pores. When your pores become clogged, they trap acne causing bacteria in oil pockets in our skin, leading to a small acne infection, which is the basis of a pimple.

One fabulous natural acne treatment is a cucumber facial. Mix one cucumber and two tablespoons of sour cream in a blender or food processor until the formula is smooth in texture. Smooth the paste-like substance all over your face and allow it to sit there for around ten to fifteen minutes. Wash your face with a natural glycerin soap and gently pat dry with a soft towel.

Another great natural acne treatment is tea tree oil. This essential oil is a natural fungicide, and is also effective at treating rashes, burns, dandruff and acne. There are many natural acne scrubs and cleansers available that contain tea tree oil, which reduces acne infections and redness.

Ancient Greek poets often wrote about the smooth radiant skin of Greek women of the time. This was largely due to the use of olive leaf extract, which fights aging due to sun exposure. In addition, it helps control bacterial growth and infection – thus warding off acne outbreaks. Olive leaf extract is often found in facial creams and moisturizers, and is considered an excellent natural acne treatment.

You may have noticed that there are a lot of facial and skin products that contain honey. This is because it is perhaps the most natural acne treatment, and one that is very effective. Honey contains a natural antibiotic that is particularly good at killing acne causing bacteria on the face. It is gentle, all natural, and very easy to apply. You simply spread the natural acne treatment over your skin and let it sit for approximately five minutes. Make sure you use a mild glycerin soap to wash your face afterward.

Many people spend years trying numerous acne treatments, only to find their condition worsening day after day. As they try stronger and harsher products, their face becomes more irritated, leading to more frequent and severe outbreaks of acne. For these people, there is no better option than to use a natural acne treatment. In addition to being effective, they generally promote long term skin health and lead to clean and clear complexion, the natural way.