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Skin Care and Diseases

Scalp acne

10/16/2002

Question:

can you get acne in the scalp

Answer:

Patients who have cystic acne on the face, chest, and back frequently have pustules, comedones and cysts in the scalp. Most of them, however, are minor and individuals with that problem frequently have another disease process known as hidradenitis suppurativa in which there are abscesses in the groin in axillae associated with another skin gland -- the apocrine glands. Having pimples in the scalp is usually folliculitis and not acne. For accuracy in diagnosis and proper treatment you should see your board certified dermatologist. At that time you should expect a complete skin exam to see if other skin systems are involved. 

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Response by:

University of Cincinnati Charles L Heaton, MD
Professor
Department of Dermatology
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati