Is acne keloidalis nuchae safe in skin of colour?

Acne keloidalis nuchae is an inflammatory condition that causes small itchy or tender bumps around hairs at the back of the scalp and neck. Repeated close clipping, friction from collars or helmets, and picking can keep the inflammation active. Over time, bumps may join into raised firm scars and hair may stop growing in affected spots. Skin of colour can also develop lingering darker marks after inflammation, so colour change does not by itself show how active the condition is.

Avoid close shaving or clipping at the hairline, picking the bumps, and tight collars that rub the neck. Keep the area clean with a gentle cleanser and tell your clinician about itching, drainage, tenderness, or scar growth. Treatment is easier to tailor when inflammation is addressed early; a clinician may discuss prescription options or procedures according to the bumps, scars, hair pattern, and risk of pigment change. Do not apply strong lightening or steroid products without advice.

Arrange a dermatology appointment when bumps recur, become firm, spread, bleed, drain, or leave expanding scars. Seek prompt care for rapidly increasing pain, warmth, pus, fever, or a soft swelling. Early review is useful even when symptoms seem mild because established scarring can be harder to manage.

Ask whether the bumps fit acne keloidalis nuchae, how close you can safely cut your hair, and which treatment protects against pigment changes. Ask how to recognise infection and when a scar or new bump should be reviewed.