Numerous new products, including serums, washes, and masks, are assisting us in caring for our scalps because, after all, it is skin.
The scalp and your face have one thing in common: both can develop clogs. In this instance, we’re referring to clogged hair follicles, which are essentially the scalp’s equivalent of clogged pores. The causes, along with methods for clearing hair follicles and revitalizing your scalp, are explained by two dermatologists below.
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What Are Hair Follicle Blockages?
Hair follicle obstructions are precisely what they sound like. Folliculitis is the correct phrase to use. Folliculitis, which is typically brought on by bacteria, is a relatively common condition that affects the hair follicles. Around the hairs, they can occasionally resemble little pimples.
Factors that Lead to Clogged Hair Follicles
Excess sebum or debris, such as skin cells or hair products, can also cause clogged hair follicles. Surprisingly, it can also result from a scalp that is very dry and has a thick coating of dead skin on it. Itchy red lumps or pustules on the scalp may be caused by an accumulation of oil or hair products (such as silicone or extra oils), or they may actually be a sign of a true fungal infection.
Hot weather and sweating can make folliculitis and dandruff worse because they encourage bacteria or yeast like Malassezia furfur (a common cause of dandruff) or yeast to colonize hair follicles. Hyperkeratosis, or excess dead skin around hair follicles, is another cause of clogged pores. This condition is frequently linked to dandruff, psoriasis, scarring alopecia like lichen planopilaris, or even a fungal infection.
Although everybody can get the illness, certain people could be more susceptible than others. Although clogged hair follicles can occur in both oily and dry scalps, oilier skin is probably more likely to do so because it encourages inflammation and the development of pathogens like bacteria and yeast.
Signs and Treatment
So how can you tell if your hair follicles are clogged? There are a few key indicators to watch out for. “Folliculitis symptoms include tiny, inflammatory pimples.
The pimples may occasionally enlarge and become irritated. They frequently have a crusty, pus-filled appearance or look like whiteheads. The skin can occasionally become extremely inflamed, frequently stinging or burning. They may occasionally get an infection that calls for oral medications.
If your hair follicles are blocked, you’re definitely wondering how to clean them out, and you should because ignoring the problem could result in issues. It’s not that folliculitis is so awful that it frequently doesn’t constitute a medical emergency.
However, the patches can enlarge and become more infected if the folliculitis is not treated or picked at. Permanent hair loss and skin discoloration and scarring are some potential side effects. The infections may occasionally worsen and last longer. Cellulitis, a more severe infection that can affect the blood and lymph nodes, can occasionally happen.
How To Unclog Your Hair Follicles
Keep It Clean
Skipping a wash appointment can exacerbate the problem, but routinely sudsing up is really beneficial. Use an anti-dandruff shampoo on your hair, and be sure to wash it daily or every other day. Wash your hair and scalp as quickly as you can if you were perspiring.
Soothe Inflammation
You particularly need to read this if your scalp appears irritated and red. You can take an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen for the inflammation. Apply a warm compress to the area to reduce swelling. You can also take an over-the-counter antihistamine to help with itching relief and apply a topical steroid cream to reduce inflammation.
Verify the Label
Try to stay away from shampoos that include silicone or dimethicone. “Alternate regular shampoo with shampoo containing salicylic acid to exfoliate or descale the scalp.”
Skip Hats
Don’t keep your headgear on for longer than is required. They might make the situation worse since they can trap oil and bacteria.
Blend It Up
Use a range of shampoos—rotate them; don’t use the same one every day. In more serious situations, using a medicated shampoo may be beneficial.
Never Touch
In order to prevent spreading infection or causing irritation, it is best to avoid touching the clogged hair follicles. Avoid pulling or twisting at your hair or repeatedly stroking, itching, or rubbing your scalp.
Do Not Shave Your Head
Putting down the razor will reduce irritability. When shaving your head, always use a fresh, clean razor.
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