Hormonal Scalp Acne – Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

What is Hormonal Acne on the Scalp?

Hormonal acne is one of the most common types of scalp acne. It occurs when hormonal fluctuations increase oil (sebum) production, clogging hair follicles and leading to inflamed, painful bumps on the scalp.

Hormonal scalp acne can occur at any age but is most common:

During puberty
Throughout the menstrual cycle
During pregnancy and breastfeeding
During menopause
Due to stress and lack of sleep

Symptoms – How to Identify Hormonal Acne?

A young woman with inflamed, red acne breakouts on her face and scalp. This is associated with hormonal acne, which can also affect the scalp.

Inflamed, red pimples on the scalp
Pusty and itchy bumps in the hairline area
Oily scalp with clogged pores
Discomfort when washing or styling hair
Possible hair loss in inflamed areas

What Causes Hormonal Scalp Acne?

👉 Hormonal changes can increase sebum production, clogging pores and leading to acne breakouts. Additionally:

👉 Stress – Increases cortisol levels, which can worsen acne.

👉 Wrong hair products – Heavy or overly moisturizing formulas can clog pores.

👉 Frequent hair touching – Transfers bacteria to the scalp.

👉 Unbalanced diet – Excess sugar and dairy may impact hormone levels.

Best Products for Treating Hormonal Scalp Acne

How to Treat Hormonal Acne on the Scalp?

1. Cleanse with the Right Shampoo

Avoid overly mild or moisturizing shampoos. Instead, choose a clarifying and sebum-balancing shampoo that also soothes inflammation.

🧴 Recommended products:

2. Gently Exfoliate Once a Week

Regular but gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores without irritating the scalp.

✨ Recommended products:

IdHAIR Solutions No.5 – Deep-cleansing scalp exfoliant
Vitality's Intensive Aqua Equilibrio – Clay mask for oily scalp

3. Hydrate & Balance

Even if your scalp is oily, light hydration helps regulate oil production, preventing excessive sebum buildup.

💧 Recommended products:

Vitality's Intensive Aqua Specialisti Balancer – Lightweight hydrating scalp treatment
IdHAIR Solutions No 4 – Stimulating and balancing scalp treatment liquid

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