Scalp folliculitis treatment: what to know

Folliculitis is inflammation around hair follicles. On the scalp it may look like small red bumps, pimples, crusts or pustules, with itching, soreness or tenderness. Friction, sweating, occlusive hair products, shaving and bacteria or yeast can contribute. Similar-looking bumps can also come from ingrown hairs or another scalp condition, so appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

A clinician may examine the scalp and ask about products, hair practices and how quickly the bumps appeared. This helps decide whether cleansing, an anti-inflammatory approach, an antimicrobial treatment or another plan is appropriate.

Wash gently with lukewarm water and avoid scratching, picking, tight headwear and sharing combs or towels. Pause oily styling products if they seem to worsen the bumps, and clean tools that touch the scalp. Do not apply leftover antibiotics or use someone else’s medicine.

A clinician may recommend [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) for selected bacterial cases, or [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) when oral treatment is appropriate. The plan depends on the examination and may change if the problem is not bacterial.

Arrange a medical review if bumps keep returning, spread, drain, form crusts, or are accompanied by noticeable hair breakage or loss. Seek prompt care for rapidly increasing redness, marked swelling, severe pain, fever, or feeling unwell. Early assessment can help prevent deeper inflammation and scalp scarring.

Ask whether the bumps fit [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), whether a swab or other test is useful, which products to stop, and how long to use any prescribed treatment. Mention recent hair removal, new products, sweating, itching and any areas of hair loss.