Infections - Bacterial & Viral
Scalp Folliculitis
WHAT IS IT
Inflamed, infected hair follicles on the scalp
HOW COMMON
Common; can be recurrent
CONTAGIOUS?
No — usually from your own skin bacteria
CURABLE?
Manageable; flares can be well controlled
What Is It?
Scalp folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles on the scalp, causing small, itchy or tender red bumps and pustules, often along the hairline and back of the head. It can be triggered by bacteria, yeast, sweat, and friction, and it tends to come and go.
Signs & Symptoms
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Small red bumps or pustules on the scalp
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Itching, tenderness, or a stinging feeling
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Crusting where bumps have broken open
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Clusters along the hairline or back of the scalp
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Flares with sweat, friction, or heavy products
Why Does It Happen?
It usually develops when hair follicles become irritated and then colonized by bacteria (often Staph) or yeast that normally live on the skin. Sweating, occlusive hats or helmets, heavy hair products, and friction can all contribute. It is usually NOT contagious.
Treatment Options
Treatment reduces the bacteria or yeast, calms inflammation, and addresses triggers. Recurrent cases benefit from ongoing gentle scalp care.
ANTIBACTERIAL / ANTIYEAST WASHES
Medicated shampoos to reduce bacteria or yeast on the scalp.
TOPICAL ANTIBIOTICS
Applied to affected areas for bacterial folliculitis.
ORAL ANTIBIOTICS
A course for more widespread or stubborn cases.
ADDRESS TRIGGERS
Reduce sweat, friction, and heavy products; clean headwear.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Avoid scratching or picking, which worsens and spreads bumps
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Wash the scalp after heavy sweating; clean hats and helmets
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Use lighter, non-greasy hair products
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Don't share combs, brushes, or headwear
When to Call Your Provider
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Painful lumps, abscesses, or spreading redness
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Bumps lead to scarring or patches of hair loss
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No improvement with medicated shampoos and gentle care
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Frequent recurrences despite good scalp care
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
DermNet. Folliculitis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/folliculitis
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Folliculitis. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/hair-conditions/folliculitis/
DermNet. Scalp Folliculitis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/folliculitis-of-the-scalp
MSD/Merck Manual. Folliculitis. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/bacterial-skin-infections/folliculitis
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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