Our editors independently select these products.

Instead, listen to the advice of dermatologistsDr.

What causes scalp acne?

alt

Hair products are a common culprit, which Ive experienced firsthand.

This pop in of acne is commonly seen around the hairline and roots where product buildup is most concentrated.

Is it scalp acne or scalp folliculitis?

An unrecognizable male hairdresser combs the dried hair of middle aged blond woman sitting sideways

board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Beverly Hills

Folliculitis is resulting from inflammation in the hair follicle, whichis typically triggeredby a bacterial or yeast infection.

But there are some tell-tale differences.

The good news is that the treatments are often the same for both conditions.

Various scattered hairdresser’s tool on blue, including user-friendly hair tools

Its particularly great for reducing the buildup of dead skin and excess oil on the scalp.

I love recommending this for people looking for a more natural approach.

It helps reduce bacteria on the scalp while soothing inflammation.

alt

If you have sensitive skin, she suggests apatch testfirst since tea tree oil canbe irritating tosome people.

I like to use a combination approach when treating scalp acne.

Clarifying or prescription-strength shampoos are important for lifting oil off of the scalp.

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Shay Mitchell attends the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Radhika Jones at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on March 02, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images)

board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Beverly Hills

Prescription-strength topical or oral antibiotics are also helpful to clear scalp acne.

So, how do I prevent scalp acne?

The same tactic can work when it comes to your scalp.

Hailey Bieber attends 2023 Baby2Baby Gala Presented By Paul Mitchell

That goes for all of your hair products.

I often recommend glycolic acid for exfoliation and promoting cell turnover, Dr. Teymour says.

I find this particularly useful for people with oily hairwho areprone to acne.

Young women wearing swimwear, showering together at outdoor shower while talking about how often should you wash your hair

So if the scalp has not improved afterusingover-the-counter treatments, youll know it is time to see a dermatologist.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.