Hairline acne refers to pimples and blackheads that form around the hairline. This type of acne is typically caused by the hair’s natural oils, but it may also occur as a reaction to certain haircare products. People who suffer from hairline acne have several different treatment options. In many cases, suffers can get rid of acne by controlling oil and using over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Severe or persistent acne may to be treated with prescription medications obtained through a dermatologist.
If you have an oily hairline, washing your hair more frequently might help to prevent and treat hairline acne. One of the main causes of acne is an overproduction of sebum, or oil. When this oil mixes with bacteria and dead skin cells, it clogs the pores and causes zits. Some people are born with a normal or dry hairline, while others naturally produce much larger amounts of sebum. Simply washing the hair and stripping natural oils from the hairline will typically decrease breakouts.
You can also control oil by keeping bangs off your face, avoiding hats, and refraining from touching your hairline. Keeping hair and other objects off your face will help to decrease the transfer of oil. By not touching your face, you will be reducing the amount of pore-clogging dirt and bacteria around your hairline. While these steps may seem simple, they can significantly reduce the frequency of your breakouts.
In some cases, a person’s choice of personal beauty products may be the reason for hairline acne. Conditioners, hairspray and other haircare products have been known to clog pores. After washing your hair, carefully cleanse the skin to eliminate any traces of shampoo and conditioner. Also be careful when using styling products like gels and hairspray. To prevent hairline acne, gently wash the hairline after styling your hair to avoid future breakouts.
Hairline acne can also be treated with over-the-counter acne products. Two ingredients to look for when choosing a product are benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Both of these substances have been proven effective in cleansing the pores, reducing oil, and removing dead cells from the skin. If benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are too irritating, other ingredients might be a less irritating alternative. Treatments containing lactic acid, sulfur and resorcinol can also be used to treat acne.
If your acne does not improve through the use of over-the-counter creams and cleansers, you should visit a dermatologist. A dermatologist will be able to evaluate your skin and prescribe a treatment to heal the hairline acne. Popular prescription treatments include antibiotics and vitamin A derivatives like tretinoin. The dermatologist may also suggest using benzoyl peroxide with a topical antibiotic.