Dermatitis, acne, cysts, cancer, etc. are some of the major causes of bumps on scalp. Learn about them along with some easy-to-follow home remedies for lumps on scalp.
As scalp is covered with hair, any kind of infection or problem usually takes time to notice. Bumps on scalp is a commonly observed problem. They can be irritating and painful. Though there are few which are painless. The condition is even more frustrating when you don’t know the reason behind the formation of bumps. This might delay the treatment and the condition may get worse.
Possible Causes of Bumps on the Scalp
Usually bumps or lumps on scalp are noticed when they start itching. Not all bumps are painful or itchy hence they may take time to get noticed. But to understand and avoid such situations one needs to know about the reasons behind their formation.
Dermatitis
The noticeable symptoms of dermatitis are itching, inflammation, and pus-filled blisters that often ooze out fluid, dries, and crust over.
Epidermal or Sebaceous Cyst
A cyst is described as a small sac present underneath the top layer of the skin. It is mostly filled with oily white semi-solid substance. These bumps can be itchy and sometimes painful. Such a condition of bumps is generally treated by a surgery to remove the cyst along with its content.
Scalp Psoriasis
It is one of the conditions which may result in red itchy bumps. Its symptoms resemble a lot with epidermal cyst. It is observed only at the hairlines and the infection might range from mild to severe.
Folliculitis
It is a medical condition that involves the inflammation or infection of one or more hair follicles. It is caused by the bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus. It can be spotted as red, itchy, painful bump. If not taken care of in time, the affected area may observe hair fall and the hair may or may not grow back.
Acne
Like any part of the body, scalp can also have acne. Sometimes, the hair follicles get clogged with natural oils, cell debris, dirt, etc. Such an accumulation is an ideal place for microbial growth, which eventually causes acne on scalp. Some may observe bigger acne which are quite painful.
Cancer
Cancerous growth of the cells on the scalp can lead to the formation of skin bumps. Cancer usually affects that part of the scalp which is not covered by hair.
Hives
Hives are usually cased due any allergic reactions. They form several small bumps which may look like a single large, red bump. It can be extremely itchy.
Other Causes
Other important causes that may give rise to bumps on the scalp include chickenpox, shingles, etc. Following are some more.
- You may observe small bumps when you shave your scalp with a razor, as the hair gets cut in an angle which gives them a sharp edge and they again penetrates your skin.
- Bug bite can also be a reason for bumps. Most common amongst them are lice and bed bugs.
- Heat rash can also cause red bumps on scalp.
- Ringworm is a fungal infection which can also affect the scalp. It is observed in a round or circular patch. The edges are red and raised whereas the center part is clean. It may spread if not taken cured in time.
Natural Treatment
Following are some of the natural treatments for bumps. These treatments are safe and very effective, hence you can try any of these natural oils to cure lumps on scalp.
- Lavender oils can reduce itching and inflammation.
- Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties, and therefore, can kill infection causing bacteria.
- Rosemary oil treats infection quite fast as it has both antibacterial and soothing properties.
- Just like rosemary oil, neem oil also has antibacterial and soothing properties. Thus, it is effective in curing rashes and lumps.
- Jojoba oil mimics the natural sebum of your skin in action. It rehydrates the skin and assists in fast cure of bumps.
Precautions
By taking few precautionary measures you can ensure a healthy scalp. Bumps may or may not show any symptoms and are sometimes left untreated. To avoid such situation following tips will help you to eradicate the condition which may result in the formation of bumps.
- Buy an over-the-counter shampoo that is specifically designed for treating lumps on scalp. Such a shampoo usually contains ketoconazole, tar, ciclopirox, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, and salicylic acid. Use it as directed on its pack.
- Keep your scalp moisturized. Right after shampooing, massage your scalp with a small amount of oil. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off well.
- Follow a healthy diet, which is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This will boost the immune system of your body. A strong immunity is essential to treat lumps on scalp.
- Drink plenty of water. This will assist in detoxification of the body, and hence, help in the treatment of bumps.
- You can take non-prescription antihistamines to treat hives.
- Massage your scalp with oil at least once in a week for about 15 minutes and wash it off.
- Avoid wearing tight caps or hats as this will trap sweat which may further cause infections.
The suggested home remedies are efficacious and have benefited a large number of people. Give any of the given remedies a shot. Try them for at least a period of 7 days. If you find them comforting your condition, continue using the same. However, if you are a sufferer of recurrent or persistent bumps on scalp, you should see a dermatologist.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
