Suggest Treatment For Multiple Pimples On The Scalp

Posted on Tue, 8 Sep 2015

Question: I have had a number of pimple like pustules appearing on my scalp. They start as red bumps then develop a white head. They are painful/itchy which subsides once pushed.

I have had these for a number of years and have been different topical lotions (most recently divobet which has had no effect).

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Scalp folliculitis; Oral antibiotics and regular cetrimide 5% scalp wash.

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us

I have taken note of your query and I have understood your concern.

I suggest a possibility of recurrent scalp folliculitis.
If I was the treating doctor I would suggest a course of an Oral antibiotic for 2-4 weeks. My choice would be doxycycline, twice daily. It is a prescription product and should be taken under supervision of a doctor.
I also suggest you to use an antiseptic scalp wash, regularly e.g cetrimide 5% solution would be good. Do it everyday, preferably. You may continue with this scalp wash for a long period of time to reduce chances of recurrence of folliculitis.
Keep your scalp clean. Avoid using anything on scalp e.g hair oils etc

Daivobet lotion is a topical calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate lotion. On scalp it is used for scalp seborrheic dermatitis Or scalp psoriasis. I would like to know, do you have scalp scaling? dandruff?

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (37 minutes later)

No scalp scaling or dandruff.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (27 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Oral doxycycline and regular cetrimide 5% scalp wash

Detailed Answer:
Hi. Thank you.

I would stick to my earlier advice i.e Doxycycline and regular Cetrimide 5% scalp wash

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T