With summer approaching, you spend more time outdoors enjoying the sun. However, the increased exposure to the elements can lead to various scalp issues, including bumps. If you’re noticing bumps on your scalp this summer, it might be sunburn, but there could also be other underlying causes. In this article, you will read about the reasons behind these bumps on your scalp and sunburned scalp and effective strategies for managing and preventing them.
Table of Contents
Bumps on the scalp during summer
Bumps on the scalp can bother you, particularly during the summer months, because you want to enjoy the weather and being outside without worries. The reason for these bumps might result from:
Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, commonly caused by bacteria or fungi, can be exacerbated by sweating and heat.
Sebaceous cysts: These noncancerous lumps filled with sebum can become more noticeable or irritated in warmer weather.
Acne: Similar to facial acne, scalp acne can be triggered by excess oil production and clogged hair follicles, worsened by sweat and sunscreen.
Contact Dermatitis: Allergic reactions to new summer hair products, such as sunscreens and sprays, which can cause bumps and irritation.
Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that can flare up due to increased sun exposure and stress, leading to raised, red, scaly patches on your head.
Sunburn: It might just be you have burn blisters from the sun. They can be painful though.
Sunburned scalp is a common summer issue
A sunburned scalp is a frequent summertime issue caused by overexposure to UV rays. The scalp becomes red, inflamed, and tender to the touch. It can also have blisters. As the skin heals, it may peel or flake off, causing significant itching and discomfort, often leading to scratching and further irritation.
Managing bumps on the scalp
Effective management of scalp bumps during the summer is a combination of good hygiene and the right treatment:
Gentle cleansing
Use a mild, sulphate-free shampoo to keep the scalp clean without causing further irritation.
Topical treatment
For folliculitis and acne, apply an over-the-counter or prescription topical treatment specifically made for your scalp problem.
Avoid irritants
Identify and avoid aggressive, damaging hair products. Use products that are gentle for your scalp instead.
Medical consultation
Seek advice from a dermatologist for persistent or severe bumps, especially if they are painful or show signs of infection.
Preventing and treating a sunburned scalp
Preventing and treating sunburned scalp during summer is easy:
- Use a hat or apply a scalp-friendly sunscreen when spending extended periods outdoors.
- Apply aloe vera gel or a soothing after-sun lotion to hydrate and calm the skin.
- Use cool, damp cloths on the scalp to reduce heat and discomfort.
- Refrain from using harsh hair products or excessive heat styling until the sunburn has healed.
Summer brings many opportunities for outdoor fun, but it can also present challenges for maintaining a healthy scalp. By understanding the causes of the bumps on your head and using effective treatment and protection, you can enjoy the summer sun without any worries.