What should you know about hair boils on scalp?

A boil can begin as a firm, painful bump and become warmer, redder, and softer in the centre as pus collects. More than one nearby lump may join into a larger infected area. Friction, shaving, scratching, blocked follicles, or a skin condition can make the scalp easier to irritate. A lump is not always a boil: cysts, inflamed follicles, and other skin problems can look similar, so examination matters when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Keep the area clean and use a warm, clean compress for short periods to ease discomfort. Do not squeeze, pierce, or shave across the lump, because this can spread infection and injure the skin. Wash hands after touching it, avoid sharing towels or pillowcases, and launder items that contact drainage. A clinician may prescribe antibiotics for surrounding infection or arrange abscess drainage when pus is trapped.

Seek prompt medical care if redness spreads, pain or swelling increases, pus continues to drain, or you develop fever or feel unwell. Get urgent help for swelling near the eye, severe headache, confusion, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Arrange an assessment for repeated boils, several scalp lumps, or a lump that does not improve, because the cause may need targeted treatment.

Is this a boil, cyst, or another type of skin lump? Does it need a sample, antibiotics, or drainage? How should I clean the area, and how can I reduce recurrence?