Effective Scalp Acne Treatment in Singapore by Doctor (2025)

Scalp Acne Treatment Singapore

Scalp acne treatment targets the formation of pimples on the scalp, which can cause discomfort and lead to hair issues if left unmanaged. Beyond the physical symptoms, scalp acne and related hair problems can also affect self-esteem, impacting both appearance and confidence. Although often overlooked, scalp acne can be particularly troublesome due to its location, making it more challenging to treat effectively.

Scalp Acne Treatment consultation from $38.15 to $70.85 NETT. Book your appointment easily with our friendly staff through WhatsApp. We will respond within 2 business days.
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Scalp Acne Symptoms

Inflamed or swollen bumps as a symptom of moderate scalp acne experienced by a young asian man.
Young female asian experiencing itching pain and discomfort due to scalp-acne.
Inflamed or swollen bumps as a symptom of moderate scalp acne experienced by a young asian man.

Scalp acne symptoms can range from mild to severe, varying in their presentation:

Severity Presentation
Mild
  • Tiny bumps (visible or not) along the hairline
  • Whiteheads on the scalp or hairline
  • Itchiness
Moderate
  • Flesh-coloured bumps on the scalp or hairline
  • Inflamed or swollen bumps (acne papules)
  • Pimples appear in small clusters
Severe
  • Painful, deep cysts under the skin (acne cysts), which may be pus-filled and have no visible head
  • Severe cases can cause hair loss, scabbing, or blackened crusts, or leave permanent scars

What Causes and Contributes to Scalp Acne?

Hair care products like pomade wax and heavy conditioners can exacerbate follicle clogging leading to scalp acne.

Scalp acne, like facial acne, occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to pimples. Contributing factors include:

  • Hair Care Products: Products like pomades, waxes, and heavy conditioners can leave residue on the scalp, exacerbating follicle clogging.
  • Poor Scalp Hygiene: Infrequent or improper washing allows oil, dead skin cells, and product buildup to accumulate and clog pores.
  • Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially during puberty, menstruation, or stress, can increase oil production.
  • Diet and Lifestyle: A diet high in sugars and fats, along with stress, can affect hormone levels and increase sebum production. Wearing hats or headgear frequently can also trap sweat and oil against the skin.

Preventing Scalp Acne

Young asian-woman washing hair with gentle non-comedogenic shampoo to remove excess oil and buildup of dead skin cells to prevent scalp acne.

Preventing scalp acne involves maintaining good scalp hygiene by:

  • Regular washing with a gentle, non-comedogenic shampoo to help remove excess oil and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells.
  • Avoiding heavy, oil-based hair products that can clog pores.
  • Incorporating a balanced diet and managing stress to reduce the likelihood of scalp acne flare-ups.
  • Washing items that come in contact with your head, such as pillowcases, hats, and headgear, to prevent the accumulation of oil and bacteria.

Scalp Acne Treatment

Unlike treatment for facial acne or acne scars, treating scalp acne differs due to the unique environment of the scalp, which has thicker skin, more hair follicles, and increased oil production, making it more challenging to manage. Treatment options for scalp acne vary depending on its persistence and severity:

Treatment Options Description
Medicated Shampoos Shampoos with ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or ketoconazole are often recommended initially. These ingredients help exfoliate the scalp, reduce oiliness, and combat the yeast or bacteria contributing to acne.
Topical Treatments Benzoyl peroxide can be applied to reduce inflammation and clear up pimples, though it may bleach hair. Alternatively, salicylic acid-based gels can be used to unclog pores without the risk of bleaching.
Oral Medications In severe cases, oral antibiotics or isotretinoin may be prescribed to reduce bacteria and decrease oil production on the scalp.
Laser and Light Therapy For more persistent cases, advanced treatments like laser therapy or blue light therapy may be recommended. These target deeper skin layers to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.

It is best to consult a doctor or dermatologist for personalised treatment options.

Scalp Acne Treatment: Before and After Photos

Owing to the regulations of The Ministry of Health (MOH), we are unable to publish before and after photos on our website. However, you may view these photos during your consultation with our doctor to understand more about the treatment you seek.

Why Choose Dr Robert Ong's Scalp Removal Treatment in Singapore?

The Medical Aesthetics Track Record

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Patients Consulted Since 2002

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Years of Experience

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Google Reviews

Experienced & Friendly Doctor

Dr Robert Ong listens attentively to your concerns and patiently discusses with you the appropriate treatment options, based on over 20 years of medical and aesthetics experience.

Affordable Treatments

We are priced competitively and affordably. We also have a variety of treatment options depending on your budget and requirements.

Safe & Effective Results

Our treatment options are safe, effective and promotes natural healing for your skin. We strive to keep your experience a comfortable one and will minimize any pain or discomfort, if any.

Scalp Acne Treatment Price in Singapore

At Medical Aesthetics, we provide treatment for scalp acne with the prices as follows:

Treatment Price*
Consultation From $38.15 to $70.85
Fusidic Cream (Disuf) $28.34
Dezoral Shampoo $21.80

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

1. All patients are required to undergo a consultation with our doctor to assess his or her suitability for the relevant treatment(s).
2. If you are keen on scalp acne treatments, feel free to talk to our doctor at Medical Aesthetics to let us best understand your concerns.
3. Our Toa Payoh clinic is located a sheltered 3 minutes walk away from Toa Payoh MRT, conveniently located in Central Singapore.

Conclusion: Get Treated for Scalp Acne Today

Scalp acne is more than just a minor irritation – it can lead to discomfort, hair issues, and impact self-esteem if not properly managed. Preventing scalp acne requires a proactive approach by understanding the symptoms, causes, and available treatments. Professional treatment may be the best option, especially for moderate to severe cases, to address the condition quickly and effectively. If you're experiencing symptoms of scalp acne or are unsure, schedule an appointment with our doctor today.

How Do I Book a Scalp Acne Treatment Appointment?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Medicated shampoos with salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or ketoconazole are typically effective. For severe cases, a dermatologist may prescribe topical treatments or oral medications.

Self-measures to treat scalp pimples include avoiding heavy hair products and regularly washing with a gentle shampoo. Medicated options, requiring consultation with a doctor, include using a shampoo with salicylic acid or zinc pyrithione, applying benzoyl peroxide, and taking oral medications like antibiotics or isotretinoin.

Yes, dermatologists can diagnose and treat scalp acne with prescription medications, topical treatments, and advanced therapies such as laser and light therapy.

Scalp acne scars can be treated with topical options such as retinoids or silicone gels, oral medications to reduce inflammation, or specialised shampoos to improve overall scalp health.

Hair often grows back after scalp acne once inflammation subsides, but severe cases with scarring may cause permanent hair loss.

Keep your hands busy and seek treatment to reduce the urge to pick.

Pimples on the scalp form when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This can occur due to factors such as the use of certain hair products, poor scalp hygiene, hormonal changes, and dietary or lifestyle factors.

Scalp pimples hurt because the scalp has thin skin and a high concentration of nerve endings, making inflammation more painful. In cases of severe acne, the pain can be intensified by deeper, more inflamed cysts that exert additional pressure on these sensitive areas.

Sudden bumps on your scalp could be due to changes in hair care, hormonal fluctuations, scalp folliculitis, or scalp acne. If they persist, it’s best to consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Wash your hair regularly with a gentle, non-comedogenic or specialised shampoo designed for scalp acne. This helps maintain a clean scalp without over-drying it, reducing the chances of further irritation and breakouts. Adjust the frequency based on your hair type and the severity of your scalp acne, and consult a doctor or dermatologist if unsure.

Scalp acne is usually bacterial, but fungal infections like seborrheic dermatitis can mimic its symptoms.

Scalp folliculitis is triggered by bacterial or fungal infections, irritation from hair products, and tight hairstyles.

Shampoos with salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or ketoconazole are best for treating scalp acne.

Yes, salicylic acid helps exfoliate the scalp, remove dead skin cells, and reduce oil production.

Wash regularly with a mild shampoo, use diluted tea tree oil, and maintain a healthy diet to support scalp health.