Pomade Acne - Cause And Treatment

Your new hairstyle has been receiving compliments and you are very pleased with the results. Yes, you did not like all the gels and creams that were sprayed and splashed on your hair generously. Never mind all that. It is the end result that matters. But did you notice those rashes on your forehead, temples and even on the scalp of your head? You are probably suffering from Pomade Acne. Pomade is a chemical substance that is normally used in hair styling, hence the name.

Main Causes Of Pomade Acne

Also known as Acne Cosmetica, it normally occurs in people who have recently changed their hair style. Pomade is thick in nature and also contains other chemicals than can lead to inflammation of the skin. When it comes in contact with the skin, it blocks the pores, resulting in whiteheads or blackheads that then break out into papules or pustules.

Alternatives To Avoid Developing Pomade Acne

While prophylactic advice is considered better to treat any disease, yet avoiding the occurrence of it altogether is best. Therefore, by taking a few precautions, one can prevent Pomade Acne-

• While using Pomade for hair styling, apply it only on the ends of the hair to avoid any direct contact with skin.
• If using as a hair moisturizer to decrease the dryness of the scalp, start spreading from one inch after the hairline. This way the chemical will not rub into skin of the forehead and face.
• Stop using Pomade altogether, especially if you suffer from acne prone skin.

Once use of pomade is stopped, the lesions will normally disappear within six to eight weeks time.

If left untreated Pomade can also lead to 'follicultitis' that is a bacterial infection of the skin. In this condition, red pimples filled with pus occur on the forehead and can be painful. Seek medical advice when even discontinuing pomade does not bring any relief.

Medically Treating The Condition

Pomade acne is typically seen in colored skin. But treatment for both dark and light skin is the same. A doctor will usually recommend topical application of benzoyl peroxide. The care regimen involves cleaning the area with a gentle soap and then spreading the medicine on it. Benzoyl peroxide is likely to cause slight irritation and some peeling. However, to achieve the best results it is necessary that you continue using it. If the condition persists over a longer period and no relief is seen, inform your doctor.

In dark skinned people it may cause some discoloration. Though retinoid and dermabrasion or chemical peeling are available as antidotes, but before opting for these treatments it is better to consult a dermatologist.