Do you have bumps on your scalp? Learn the causes and remedies

Problems like split ends, dandruff, and hair loss all draw attention to your hair, but what about your scalp? When your scalp is unhealthy, you can notice noticeable signs like scalp bumps. It may be caused by conditions such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. Allergic reactions may also appear on the scalp. In most cases, these bumps are harmless, but in some cases they can be a cause for concern. It should not be taken lightly as it can be a symptom of skin cancer. Let’s learn about the causes of bumps on the scalp and how to deal with them.

What are the symptoms of scalp bumps?

Common symptoms of scalp bumps include:

• Pain or tenderness: Some bumps may be painful when touched or pressed.
• itch: Many diseases that cause bumps on the scalp are accompanied by itching.
• Redness and inflammation: The area around the bump may become red and swollen.
• Scaling or peeling: Conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis can cause the skin around the bump to flake or peel.
• Body fluid or pus: Infection can cause the bump to ooze or fill with pus.

“Persistent bumps or discomfort on the scalp should not be ignored as they may indicate an underlying skin disease,” says cosmetic surgeon Dr. Shweta Mishra.

What causes bumpy scalp?

1. Folliculitis

This is an infection or inflammation of the hair follicle caused by bacteria, fungi, and even ingrown hairs. “They appear as small, red, painful and itchy bumps that can develop on the head filled with pus,” says the expert. According to a study published in StatPearls in 2023, this scalp condition is usually benign. Poor scalp hygiene, sweat, and tight hairstyles can irritate hair follicles and cause folliculitis.

2. Seborrheic dermatitis

It is a chronic skin disease that occurs in the oily areas of the scalp. Dandruff, a common scalp problem, is considered the mildest form of seborrheic dermatitis, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Its symptoms include red, scaly patches with yellowish dandruff. “Stress, cold weather, and overproduction of sebum by the scalp glands can cause this condition,” experts say.

3. Scalp acne

A painful cyst-like lesion that forms on the scalp due to clogged pores. If you have scalp acne, you will notice red bumps with white or black pimples. Sweat, dead skin, and oil buildup can cause this problem.

4. Pilar cyst

These are benign, fluid-filled cysts that form from hair follicles. “It forms a hard, dome-shaped lump that may move slightly under the skin. It is associated with genetic predisposition, but there is no obvious external cause,” says Dr. Mishra. According to a study published in StatPearls in 2023, they occur in less than 10 percent of the world’s population, and of all skin cysts, pilaris cysts are the most common, primarily affecting the scalp. .

5. Psoriasis

It is an autoimmune disease that accelerates skin cell turnover, resulting in the formation of thick, scaly patches on various parts of the body, including the scalp. They look like silver or white scales on raised red spots and are often itchy. “Stress, infection, and scalp damage can all trigger psoriasis,” experts say.

6. Allergic reactions

It is a contact dermatitis caused by exposure to irritants such as hair dyes, shampoos, and styling products. Itchy, red, and irritated bumps on your scalp are signs of an allergic reaction. Hair care ingredients such as sulfates and parabens can cause this problem.

7. Ringworm

This is a fungal infection that causes circular, scaly patches of hair loss. In addition to the itchy red bumps, you may also see black dots where the hair breaks. “It is transmitted through direct contact with contaminated combs, towels, or skin,” experts say.

8. Head lice

Lice are small parasites that live on the scalp and feed on blood. It causes itchy bumps, especially behind the ears and on the nape of the neck. Head lice can be spread through close contact with an infected person or by sharing combs or hats. An analysis of 55 studies published in Pediatrics in 2022 found that the global prevalence of head lice ranged from 0 to 64.1 percent.

9. Skin cancer

If you notice flesh-colored bumps or recurring sores on your scalp, you may suspect skin cancer. According to a study published in JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft in 2018, skin cancer often starts on the scalp.

How to cure scalp boils?

1. Folliculitis

• Warm compress: Apply a clean, warm cloth to the affected area to reduce pain and encourage drainage.
• Tea tree oil: Add a few drops to a carrier oil and apply to bumps to fight bacterial and fungal infections. An analysis published in Clinical Microbiology Reviews in 2006 found that tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Aloe vera gel: Applying this cool ingredient to your scalp will soothe inflammation and itchiness.

2. Seborrheic dermatitis

• Apple cider vinegar rinse: Mix equal amounts of water and apple cider vinegar. Use as a final rinse to reduce dandruff.
• Coconut oil: Massage this oil into your scalp to moisturize and reduce scalp flaking.

3. Scalp acne

• Honey and turmeric mask: Mixing honey and turmeric and applying it to scalp bumps will reduce inflammation. According to a study published in BMC Complementary Medicine And Therapies in 2021, honey has anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to a study published in Cytokine in 2023.
• Exfoliation: Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.

4. Allergic reaction

• Cold compress: Relieves itching and redness caused by contact dermatitis.
• oatmeal paste: “A paste made from colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can soothe inflammation,” says the expert.

5. Ringworm

• Garlic paste: Applying a thin layer of antifungal garlic paste can help treat scalp bumps.
• Neem oil: Neem oil, known for its powerful antifungal properties, can be applied directly to your head to get rid of itchy scalp.

6. Psoriasis

Use medicated shampoos that contain ingredients such as selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, and salicylic acid. “These can be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and fungal infections,” says Dr. Mishra. Also, try to reduce stress by going to meditation or yoga.

7. Pilar cyst

Antibiotics may be given first to treat these cysts. “A surgical procedure, cystectomy, may also be suggested to remove large or infected pilaris cysts,” the experts say. A small incision is made in the skin and the cyst wall and its contents are removed.

8. Skin cancer

If diagnosed at the right time, it is treatable. You may be treated as follows:

• surgery
• radiation
• chemotherapy

9. Head lice

Medicated products containing ingredients such as permethrin may help kill head lice. First wash your hair with shampoo, but do not use conditioner. Leave the medication on your hair for the amount of time indicated on the package, then wash it out. You may need to use it more than 2-3 times.

Scalp bumps can be caused by serious illnesses such as acne or skin cancer. After determining the cause, it is necessary to choose treatments such as medicated shampoos and cold compresses.