Infected or inflamed hair follicles – small, red, tender bumps caused by bacteria
Allergic reactions or irritation – from hair products, shampoos, or detergents
Seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap – flaky, sometimes tender patches on the scalp
Cysts or benign growths – usually painless, but can swell or become red if irritated
Even if most causes are minor, monitoring is key.
What You Can Safely Do at Home
Keep the scalp clean and dry – Use a mild, fragrance-free shampoo. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
Avoid picking or scratching – Touching or squeezing bumps can worsen inflammation or cause infection.
Monitor for changes – Track size, redness, pain, or new bumps. Taking photos can help track progress.
Avoid new hair products or treatments – Introduce nothing new until you know the cause.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Call a doctor or go to urgent care sooner if you notice:
Fever, fatigue, or general malaise
Rapidly spreading redness, swelling, or pus
Severe pain or the bumps becoming very tender
Hair loss around the bumps
