Scalp Sores that don't heal with Nizoral shampoo for fungus or with
antibiotics or with euramyacin you can dab on head sores.
Remedies for ringworm dont work and fungus don't work.The symptoms
include very itchy sores that dry and get flakey but dont leave. They
can be very painful and they can also get inflamed and then go down
for no apparent reason. They stay on the head. They do not seem to be
contagious.

For a Researcher to speculate about what *might* be the cause will not
help you. I suggest that you see a dermatologist. It is not possible
to make an accurate diagnosis of such a problem over the Internet.

Dear reserchers,I am aware that , if just by luck ,and some reserch
that there is an opinion that might help.  I know it is an opinion and
I am not expecting anymore than that, But I would welcome some
opinions as I have seen 2 drs.and a  specialist, they yielded little
help ,all agreeing it is fungus ,however there have been no scrapings,
or biopsies, and  the medicines (tetracycline,an antibiotic dabber and
Nizoral shampoo) doesnt work.  This problem came about last July and
is still here. Im 50 yrs. old and never had any problem like this in
my life.  As soon as my insurance is in effect again I will go back to
the drs. but for now all I can do is guess , but I couldnt find
anything that resembeled my problem (of the sores not going away and
now there are alot more of them, about 20.) So Im looking for symptoms
of some rare disease possiably.

If it's fungus, (and maybe if it's not), you could have very good
success with a hard to find, (and hard to get prescribed), topical
solution, called FLUCONAZOLE 1% SOLUTION. Obtainable from ,
(Compounded Solutions in Pharmacy LLC), in Monroe, CT, at phone (203)
268-4964. They have an 800 number, but I've forgotten it. The worst
that could happen is that you spend $50, (plus the Doctor's fee), and
it would not work. You can tell if it works because normal skin has
almost no "reaction" when it is applied, but "fungus" skin does react.
 I have used it to reverse, (perhaps not "cure"), rosacia, (wrong
spelling ?) on my face.
There is one snag to overcome.  It's normally prescribed only for nail
fungus, (which I had).  I "cured myself" by accidently finding that it
"worked" on my face. Guess when you're desperate, you try anything. 
It took over a year to cure my nail fungus, and many months to reverse
the rosecea, (not daily applications, but persistent treatment). Even
one application every two weeks, or even every two months, is a good
schedule, in my opinion. FLUCONAZOLE 1% SOLUTION is a DMSO topical,
with the active ingredient of DIFLUCAN.
The snag exists, because the big drug company is pushing Diflucan to
take internally, (orally), but I definitely don't want to take it
orally, because I saw class action suits being placed against it for
permanent liver damage, etc., although it seems very popular as a one
dose, ($15 ?), cure for women with yeast infections.
So, there it is. Never thought I'd have to type this much, but it's
snaggy at present....Love To All, ITN, trueparent

I was just looking on the web to find some information on my scalp
sores, that start out like pimples,and are very painful! I was
surprised to hear that I'm not alone. I have tried everything,and have
been to docters,with no success. I am also very concerned about the
health of my hair. It is so thin, and dosen't grow at all anymore. I
am only 35, and I am beside myself about this. I was hoping for some
advise by experience.

I have sores that start off as pimple like but then erupt into sores
when I scratch them usually on the sides and back of my scalp.  It's
what happens whenever Oak Pollen lands on my head.  I'm allergic to
it.  My doctors noticed that every time Oak Pollen would start falling
that I would get these sores so i try to avoid Oak, but unfortunately
I haven't been able to avoid oak lately and they have come back.

That's me - EXACTLY! Sores/pimples that do NOT heal - always come
back! For years now. Doctors? Don't know the cure for sure. All I get
are cortisone/Betamethosone valerate to relieve the
soreness/irritation - and it does work - but these very painful sores
return, time after time with periods of inactivity - sometimes months
- followed by months of sores. Very disconcerting! Also prescribed are
erythromycin to prevent infection and an antibiotic shampoo for the
same reason. I ask the doctor 'What do I do to get rid of this problem
once and for all?" Answer - be thankful you don't have a major problem
like heart disease! LOL!!! And they're right! But it doesn't get rid
of these irritating painful recurring sores. It's in the hair
follicles - it's in the oil glands - it's probably related to hormones
and whatever but short of changing my genes, I think I'm stuck with it
and must learn to accept it. But it isn't easy to do!

Hi everyone, I feel so bad for those of you who have this problem.  I
have had this off and on for about a year now.  I have noticed when I
stay away from sugar and white flour products everything seems to be
fine.  I just wish it was easier to stay away from these products.  I
have learned to replace sugar products with products made of other
sweetner such as Splenda.  To give you some relief use Neutrogena
T-Gel Shampoo a couple of times a week.  Please let me know if anyone
tries this and it works for them.  A friend of mine is a hairdresser
and has tried all kinds of products and nothing helps.  Good Luck!

I recently started using DHEA.  I immediately started experiencing
loss of scalp hair and pimples on my scalp.  In researching side
effects of DHEA I learned that hair loss and "acne" are two key side
effects.  I had similar side effects earlier in my life with different
brands of birth control pills.  At least for me, hair loss and scalp
pimples seem to be hormone related.

There are a few possible causes for the symptoms you describe. No
doubt your Physician has taken cultures of the affected scalp - if
these have turned up bacteria or fungus, then anitbiotics (such as the
tetracyclines) or antifungals may help. Alternatively, if no pathogens
were isolated, the symptoms you describe sound similar to a condition
termed "Folliculitis", which is an inflammation of the pilosebacious
unit of the hair follicle. Folliculitis is typically seen in men with
beards, however it can occur anywhere on the body. A type of
folliculitis (termed "Decalvans") is commonly seen on the head and can
potentially result in scarring and hair loss, which is why it is very
important for you to see a dermatologist to have your actual condition
diagnosed and treated. A few people are successfully treated with
antibiotics or topical corticosteroids, but many have a life long
problem. The good news is that new advancements are continually being
made in the treatment of this disorder, so don't give up!

Oh, and shell out the $$$ to see a dermatologist for a proper consult...

This same thing just happened to me.  

Because of extremely thin fingernails, I've been trying acrylic nails.
 I just realized that whenever I've had them redone is when the sores
come back.  I never had scalp sores until now.

Could this be a possibility for anyone else?  I'd be curious to know.

I have had this same problem for years and my dermatologist diagnosed
it as "typhoon head."  There is probably more of a technical term
however this is what he called it.  I use a topical Eurythromuacin
(sp?)on the sores and a clobetasol propionate solution for the bumps. 
It helps, but doesn't cure the problem.  It is really an aweful
problem to have although as another person said you could have worse
health issues.

I have had this irritating problem since I was 13. I am now 25, and
have tried everything, to no avail. My Dr. said that I wash my hair
too much & that's why I have them, to switch to a medicated shampoo
like Head & Shoulders. I did what she said, and it did decrease the
pain in the sores, and made them some of them go away, but they would
come back. I have a very bad habit of scratching and picking at them,
and it makes it a lot worse. I hate it, I wish somebody could tell me
what's wrong with me!!!

Anyone else out there using feather pillows? I had the same condition,
and stopped using a feather pillow, and also treated my scalp with tea
tree oil, which is an anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, that
you can find in most health food stores. One of these actions worked.
I had heard that feathers house all sorts of mites and other critters.
I have also read that a candida infection (yeast in the gut) can cause
these, so I took probiotics, also.

I'm 61 with thinning hair and this similar problem has been my problem
for about a year or two.  My doctor prescribed and anitfungal shampoo
that did nothing then she prescribed a shampoo with selenium and that
makes the bumps and pimples go away as long as I use the shampoo. 
When I quit using it, they come back in a couple weeks or so.
It is:
MGP Selenium Sulphide Lotion USP 2.5%

I have never been to a dermatologist for this.

I started getting these irritating bumps about two years ago, most of
them come and go, but a few linger.  I always though it was because,
since I'm always rushed, I didn't get to dry my hair after my shower. 
I would just whip it into a ponytail and be off... You know the longer
your skin is soaked, the less resistant it gets, so, I believed it was
due to having wet hair wrapped around sensitive scalp.

It could be allergies, my eating habits have changed quite a bit since
I got my own place.  I guess I could always experiment and see if I
can get rid of them.

I have the same symptoms described ..... pimples that get very sore
and sometimes itch on my head. My hair is also thinning.
I went to a dermatologist about the problem about 3 years ago and he
quickly diagnosed me with "acne neurotica". He said it is commonly
seen in powerful business men.
I am not a man and not powerful, but anyway....
He prescribed an antibiotic solution in a dauber bottle which didn't help much.

I had some warts on my scalp and eventually they got bigger & bigger. 
I went and saw a top "Dermatologist" and she frozed them.  Yes, it
hurt, however they vanished.  After that I lost alot of hair and now
my hair is very thin with a bald spot (almost) on top.  It was not
cancerous, thank god.

If you want a top specialist go to http://www.mdnationwide.org

Good luck!

same issue here...for years...since I was 16. No luck with shampoos,
dermatologist didn't help. By accident, I found that this condition
went away when I exercised regularly. I think it has something to do
with sweating out of the pores on your head. Swimming also works, I
think the chlorine helps with it's antibacterial qualities. Diet
restrictions helped a little - as mentioned by someone else, no sugar
or white flour. Lastly, I firmly believe it is hormonal because this
condition went away completely while I was pregnant.

No quick fixes unfortunately...but a good reason to stay in shape and eat right...

I have the same propblem which started about six months ago.  I've
finally gotten them under control by using tea tree oil.  I also tried
rosemary oil and lavender oil and they both worked well too.  I
suggest you invest in a small bottle of each (at your local health
food store), isolate three pimples and do a mini-scientific test to
see which works best for you. I esp. liked using the lavender or
rosemary at night before bed because I drifted off into a very
peaceful sleep from the aroma-therapy!

I have been suffering from the same problem for about 2 years.  The
first outbreak my doctor prescribed selenium sulfide lotion and that
cleared it up.  About a year later the problem returned.  So what to
see my dermatologist and she described it as folliculitis and
prescribed Adoxa tabs and clindamycin.  It cleared up for a couple of
months but it has slowly been coming back.  My doctor also said to use
Nizoral but it tends to leave my hair a bit oily.  I have been using
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Shampoo for the last 2 or 3 years but I am
wondering it is part of the problem.  The worst part is, I don't know
how to keep my hands off.  I am beginning to wonder if most of the
problem stems from dry scalp, but how do you correct this problem and
not end up with oily hair?

I have had this problem for several years. I have tried almost
everything listed here and have still been unsucessful.I tried
hydrogen peroxide on the open ones and it seemed to help heal them
quickly but be careful it will change your hair color.I am currently
dealing with the worst flare up ever and it is very painful. I am
trying straight isopropal alcohol...it stings like hell but seems to
dry them up better than anything. I hope and pray that someone can
come up with a cure or a way to help. I have my wife cut my hair
because it is to embarassing to have it done by some one
professionally.

Hi there,
I know exactly what everyone means. I am a 34 year old female nursing
student under tremendous stress. I have been having these sores for
about 7 years. It all started when I had a hysterectomy. I do believe
it is hormone induced. I have used everything under the sun to make it
stop. They are so painful and I get really bad headaches from the. Do
you guys get headaches too?  I have found that a cream called Elidel
is sucessful in at least taking down some of the swelling. I have 4
right now that are huge and I am in immense pain. I am going to try
the tea tree oil and will get back to you on it. Hope everyone is well
and has a great week. Warmest Regards.......Nursing student in LA
(Lower Alabama)

I'm a 61yr old male with the same problem (sores/pimples in the
scalp). I went to the dermatologist 2 years ago, and left thinking he
really didn't have the answer. He prescribed Organic Tea-Tree shampoo
by Tisserand (England) and  Clindamycin Phosphate Gel USP 1% to be
applied to the sores. I tried this for 1-3/4 years but the problem
still persist, with worse flare-ups from time to time. What seems to
help is keeping my hair cut short. Right now I'm trying Johnson't Baby
Shampoo. Too early to tell, but right now the problem has subsided
somewhat. Prior to the Johnson's shampoo I tried Tea Tree from Paul
Mitchell (proplem seemed to be worse-maybe it is too agressive).

What a great website! Like many of you I have also suffered with this
condition for almost 20 years now. Pimples appear and again are
painful. I don't get too many if I leave them alone. But if I scratch
them they oz out an oil like substance, which then seem to start an
outbreak around that general area. Again medications, hydrogen
proxide, etc don't really work. I also suffer from a form of dandruff
like condition which has the skin comming off in almost chucks of skin
under my nails at times. This seem to be controlable with medication.
What I have noticed is that when I lived further south then I do now,
is that in the summer when my head was exposed to the sun that the
condition is almost none existent. But by midwinter the condition
would return leaving me to believe the condition is baterial or fungus
related. Since moving north my summer sun exposure is limited and I
suffer year round. I'm going to try some of the suggestions here and
purchase a UV SUN lamp to emulate the summer sun. I pray that someone
comes up with a cure or a remedy at the very least.

I have used Scalpicin and that soothes the sores a bit and dries them
up.  The key is to not pick at it - as hard as that is. I have dry
hair, and I noticed when my hair gets oily that the bumps get worse.

lynnj29-ga, you have my sympathy. I had one large and very painful
sore recently and it was horrible, but I have had several at one time,
long ago, so I know what you are going through. (I am a nurse too! Mom
of 3)
It has been interesting reading everyones posts. We aren't alone at
least. I have not been "clear" for months. To the fella who is
embarrassed to go to a hairdresser/barber for a trim: I know the
feeling, but I had to get over it.  I just explain to the hairdresser
at my first appointment, if I change where I go or who I see, which I
try not to do. Only once did I have a snooty gal that gave me a hard
time, like I had cooties or something. I didn't go there more than
twice.
I am going to try to keep my hands off (I KNOW that I should) and see
if that helps, but it is VERY difficult.

Hey guys!!
It's lynn in LA.  Well, I have been using just straight Tea tree oil.
It seems to have shrunk them somewhat but I wanted to ask if anyone
seems to have real bad headaches with these?  My head hurts so bad and
it is mostly in the spot where the sores are. I also feel like my head
is somewhat "full" feeling....kinda like when you have a cold and when
your sinuses are acting up. Does anyone else experience this?  Also, I
have been using the Nizoral and the new T-gel daily use shampoo. But,
I really don't know which one is helping me most. Hope everyone had a
most wonderful Thanksgiving!!!
Lynn in Alabama

I tried Neem (oil), soap, lotions, and shampoo.  Its a natural product
from India, and can be found in most any Indian supermarket......  or
you can order frmo http://www.bytheplanet.com/Neem/neem.htm

Ahh I'm glad to know I'm not the only one suffering this. I had it for
about 3 months, then went overseas to a very humid place. While I was
there I was sweating all the time and they went away. So maybe that
backs up what one person said about exercising and sweating them out.
I came back home and they returned. WEnt to the doctor and he
perscribed anti-biotics. After about 1 month they totally cleared, but
once I stopped the medication they came back. I went back and he told
me that there's no real cure to these things and that I'd have to stay
on the anti-biotics  (2 per day) then try to reduce them back to 1 per
day. Then eventually/hopefully stop them all together. He also gave me
this anti-bacterial wash to put through my scalp, it helps calm them
down.

wow, for about 10 years I thought I had bugs or something embarrassing
like that.  It was refreshing to find out I am not alone.  I have
tried antibiotics, nizoral, antiseptic wash, and a couple of things I
shouldn't have.  I have had some success lately with the tea tree oil.
 I don't know how others are using it (please add a comment on how you
apply it) but I take the nail brush in it and brush a bit on my hand
as I use conditioner on my hair.  This has reduced the discomfort
significantly but has not cured it.  No derm has been able to cure it.
 I am starting to have an interest in the gut bacteria or a candida
infection possibly.  I am somewhat overly emotional and wonder if it
could be hormonal!  Wow, just thanks for whoever posted the question
because we all found out we are not alone in this situation.  Have a
Merry Christmas and may
Santa bring you a cure!

The best thing/s you can do is/are:
1. Pray to God to vanish your pimples/acne or whatever
2. Or learn (more) about what I am providing you ahead.

"Neem" has been used for many purposes for thousand of years by,
mainly, Hindus. And what was discovered then, is questioned today by
so-called "most advanced" humans. Interestingly, scientists are
finding those ancient discoveries true. in fact, neem is being studied
to cure many types of cancers, and other disease as well. SO, find
more information about this Indian medicine and you will thank me.

Application process as what i have known/heard: use either "neem-boli"
(seeds) or leaves (hard to find in US, but try, as you may find them
maybe at some Indian shop/store). Crush them thin, mix with water,
apply to your head (stink will make you pass out, so make sure u wear
a mask), let it stay on your head for about 20-30 minutes, wash your
head/face/body, and do not try to use any shampoo during this
treatment. try for few days and see how you feel. oh yea, the smell
will stay with on you, or use some coconul oil. that will be little
helpful.

email me only after you spend a week in this treatment to let me know
of your improvements.

JS

OMG, I am so happy to have found this sight. I am a 37 year old mother
of two and have had this problem continuously for the last 2 years at
least. I agree with those who suspect it is hormonal, as I notice it
seems to lessen and then increase with my monthly cycle. I've tried
selsun blue, head and shoulders, and tgel, none of which helped. My
husband and daughter both use elidel (which someone mentioned) for
eczema. i may try that, as it says it can be applied anywhere on the
body. I've done the peroxide and alcohol thing too. I have had some
minor periodic success with salicylic (sp?) acid, which is an acne
medication.

BIG question- I have fallen into the habit of pulling the hairs out of
these sores- it is to point that I have made bald spots sround the
sores themselves, which makes it even worse. I haven't had a real
haircut in over a year. I am finally getting some regrowth in two
large spots but it itches so badly I can narely restrain myself from
pulling the little suckers out one by one with a tweezer. I am
desperate for help with this.

wow thanks to this site I now understand what is going on.  Same thing
I was in the shower washing my hair when I came across what i thought
was a pimple so I picked at in and thought it was gone. That was in
sept and to my surprise its still there never going away.  I did a
search on this and bang there are other people with this same thing! 
I have tried so many products over the counter but none of them
worked.  I have just received the tree oil in the mail on monday
thanks to this site and i do see a difference already!  ill keep you
all posted.

I cannot believe that I am not alone. I have had this exact problem
for 5yrs and have used almost every one of these remedies except neem
(which i probably wont try until i see some  feedback). Here is what
works for me: I have extended my symptom free days by starting with
500mg ciprofloxacin 2x daily for 10dys which dries them up very well.
Then I diligently wash my hair 2x daily to keep my scalp oil-free and
sweat-free usually in the morning and night or immediately after a
workout/sweating. I also change my pillowcases every couple of days. I
have discovered that the problem starts immediately when I do any one
of the following: 1) wear wool caps or ski caps for a long time
especially when my scalp is not washed or sweaty. 2) go for more than
a day without washing my scalp 3) scratch my scalp with my nails
instead of my fingertips 4) dont change my pillowcases for a while 5)
use head & shoulders or any combination shampoo+conditioner 6)use
greasy type hair products/gel or 7) no kidding, this is one real -
touch or scratch my scalp after intercourse with vaginal fluids on my
hands (wet or dried). Once it starts up again and gets bad, I usually
have to restart the antibiotic treatment from scratch (which my doctor
hates to do b/c cipro is so strong and he is worried about
drug-resistance).

About the Tea Tree oil. Use it sparingly!  Get a Q-tip and moisten the
end and dab on the sore(s) and only on the sore(s). If you use it at
least once a day the sores will dry up and you won't have itching.
Pretty soon they'll be gone.  I haven't had any new ones since I
started using Tea Tree oil.  Good luck!

Hello there my sister hast this problem. She has tried for years.
There are many things it can be and the best way to tell is to goto a
dr and have a culture done. To find out if it is microbial or fungally
influence. She did not have either. The dr explained that then ment it
was something having to do with either immune system or hormonal
changes. In my sisters case did not seem to be hormonally connected
especially after blood tests in that regard turned up normal.
Surprisinly there are lots of immune system changes that can cause
this. In my sisters case it is called Cirriosis. Can cause bumps,
pits, oilyness, dryness, flakes, scales discolleration etc. She now
takes some herbel drugs she found for herself and also a drug from the
Dr. He says it surpresses the blood componant that causes Cirriosis. I
think they are T cells. Hopefully this helps someone. Anyways seems to
be inherited. I have silver dry scales on my left ankle only.

Hi,

Most scalp sores are caused by a bacteria that exists in your hair
cells. I think you can do the following:

Go to http://www.hairgrowthguide.com and send them your hair sample.
What they do is offer free hair sample test results which can help you
with your hair and scalp problems.

I personally have used both of their treatments (HL365 & HP365). I
really liked it and have been using HP365 since May 2004. Go on and
send them your hair sample and see what they can do for you.

I hope this helps.

Cheers

N Bridley

My head sores are gone!

My hair was falling and getting thinner and I kept getting these
pimples at random places on my scalp. I was depressed and despondent
when I was looking for answers and did not find any. I even came to
this page and was disappointed that no one knew what to do. I went to
a dermatologist and nothing. I knew though that I have a low iron
count and low iron can be a cause of thinning hair. So 4 weeks back I
decided to do this...

I started taking an iron supplement daily. My hair gets oily after 2
days so I made sure that I shampoo every other day with Loreal Vive
Fresh-Shine Shampoo and dry thoroughly with a hair dryer; I do not use
any conditioner because I find when I use it my hair falls out more. I
don't use any other styling aids, they just add to the gunk on ones
head. Fresh-Shine cleans nicely and leave hair shiny and clean. This
shampoo is probably only $4. I stopped using my $10 Paul Mitchell Tea
Tree Oil shampoo; it's nice but did not do the trick.

Now 4 weeks later my hair is clean and I cannot find any pimples, only
a tiny scab here and there where the pimples dried out. When I shampoo
I only find about 5 or so hair falling which for me I guess is within
an acceptable range.

I am happy now and I recommend that any one with this problem try doing what I did.

Good Luck!!

I suffered a great deal from sores on my bald head for several months.
At first I didn't take it too seriously thinking they would go away.
They seemed to begin as small raised smooth red spots and there seemed
to be itching associated, perhaps on my scalp generally. I tried
several remedies. I used an antibodic cream, a cortisone cream, oil
and hand cream. Wearing a soft cloth cap seemed to help some. It is
difficult to express how painful the sores became as they erupted. I
tried squeezing them and got only blood it seemed and they hurt all
the more by the next day. I couln't stand having a pillow touch them.
At one point I had about 8 of them some going and others coming. They
seemed to be about the size of grapes raised up on my scalp but I
couldn't get them to "pop" open and drain. I tried hot wet compresses
to get them to open and punctured them with a needle. Nothing helped.
After searching the net I found these posts and realized it was not
just something I experienced. Finally I though I would put bandages on
them so I would keep my hands off of them as I was picking the hard
tops off of them frequently. I couldn't keep bandaids from coming off
and one night I grabbed up a roll of duct tape and made a skull cap of
about 3 inch strips and about 3 layers deep. It kept me from picking
at them. I started talomg tylenol for the pain and antihistimines for
the itching. I left the tape in place for about 5 days. I could only
massage my head in a general sort of way during this period. At the
end of 5 days I could pull up the tape from the rear and could tell
they had opend a drained so I took it off and cleaned my head with wet
wipes and waited until the next day and put regular adhesive tape back
on. By this time the pain had gone out of the sores but they were
still evident. In the past 4 days or so I have taken the third taping
off and only small red spots are evident althought from their
placement I am not able to see them very well with two mirrors. I
think they were infected or inflamed hair folicles and that the
conditions that cause baldness are involved too. The tape seemed to
make the skin on my scalp very soft and pliable...unlike it was before
the condition began. I think that allowed the folicle to open. Hope
anyone suffering from this outragious pain can find relief and will
comment here as well.

I was really surprised to run across these comments tonight.  After
searching the 'medical' websites, this is the only one I could find
that discussed my exact symptoms.

I have a lot of hair.  Enough for several people.  I used to get these
bumps occassionally, especially when my hair needed thinning.  I
always thought they were related to my hot, sweaty scalp as a result
of all the hair, or perhaps I didn't rinse shampoo and/or condition
thoroughly enough.  In the past, one or two shampoos with Paul
Mitchell's tea tree shampoo would do the trick.

Now, for the last 4-6 months, I have them constantly.  They don't
really "hurt" or "itch", but they are sore to the touch, and very very
annoying.  I too cannot help touching them and picking at them, which
just makes them more sore.  Also, now tea tree shampoo isn't quite
doing the job. My hair is very pampered - It is cut and colored every
6 weeks and I only use salon shampoos, conditioners, and styling
agents.  I have asked my hairdresser about them, and she said they
were caused by stress, which I am under a considerable amount.

So now, after reading this site, I think I can agree with everyone and
think there may be some correlation between the diet, stress, exercise
or the lack thereof, and hormones.  I also think there is a psorriasis
component here, and maybe some warm sun will help.

Thanks to everyone here because now I will not be going to a
dermatologist who will just waste my time and money.  I'll try some of
these over the counter shampoos and remedies, and I will try to keep
my hands off of them.

God speed.

My grandma has this problem and she has tried different, expensive
medication and nothing really works. I hate seeing her with these
sores all the time so maybe I can help her find some other options.

Same symptoms here. had it for about 7 yrs now. I dont seem to have
the pain others are talking about. Just dam itchy and cant keep my
hands away, I also get itchy spots around my face which i think are
related but not as frequent. Im sure its hormonal and im sure if i
could stop scratching them they would clear quicker but not disapear,
others would soon come back to the same area anyway.
Ive tried the doctor visits to, some products would clear them and
keep them from coming back so long as i kept the medication going
(Beta Scalp Application) is the product that worked best.
Betamethasone B.P. 0.1% w/w. (as Valerate) as writen on the bottle.
Im a dad of 3 and I keep my hair very short, my doc also said stay
away from the hot showers which i do spend alot of time in. Im yet to
try this. Some sexual habbits may have to change aswell but only if
all else fails.

Keep the imfo coming we all need the help. dont be shy

I am also a sufferer of these "scalp sores".  I am a 43 yr. old female
and my sores only began to appear in the last six months.  The first
time I had only one to start with (when I woke up in the morning) near
the base of my scalp, but, after the itching/scratching, it appeared
to be more of a cluster and they became very raw sores.  I thought it
was a cluster of spider bites that happened in my sleep.  Ultimately
picking at it made it unbearable enough that I finally saw a Dr.  He
only gave me an antibiotic "to treat the resulting infection".  Then
weeks later I noticed another in a totally different area, which made
me think it was a type of acne.  I am wondering if it is an allergy to
something here in Southern Indiana as I NEVER HAD ANY while living in
Los Angeles for 41 years.  I am also willing to believe that it is
hormone related and exacerbated by stress.  I have used feather and
down pillows all of my life without this reaction so I have ruled that
out.  I have not changed any of my eating or exercising habits in
years, so I am not convinced they are factors.  I am betting on
hormones and stress as both are current issues I am struggling with.

I found relief using a Blistex product (that I have used for sometime
for dry cracked lips) called Lip Medex.  Several years ago I found
that if I applied Lip Medex to a "zit" on my face before going to
sleep at night that it seemed to dry up and disapear by morning.  The
sores did not reappear in the same location although recently I have
found a couple of new ones in other scalp locations and NOW I fight
the urge to scratch!  The only time they really hurt is if I
accidentally go over them with a comb.  At least the Lip Medex
banishes them without hair loss!  Thank you all for sharing and I hope
my report is helpful.  I'll check back in occasionally for any new
information.
Lisa

The problem definitely seems to be hormonal and stress related. When I
was stressed I tended to look for pimples or dry skin to scratch and
pick at. I started taking medication for my despression too and
exercising when I started on my regimen if iron supplements and
regular shampooing with a nice cleaning shampoo. This has cleaned up
my scalp and I don't spend my time scratching. 'Hope this helps.

Update... Im back and went to my doctor twice and now he sent me on
the road to a dermatologist but I have good news, It in my case seems
to be a fungus which Lamasil was perscribed and I have been on it now
for about three weeks and it is clearing up. It used to be raised and
now has gone down very nicely and is flat and seems to be healing up. 
Hope this helps Ill let you know when it goes away completly

I have had sores on my scalp off and on since I was 15 yrs old (now
57) Mine appeared after a situation in which I was assaulted and
instead of talking to someone I digged and digged in my head til it
was a running sore.  Well nerve pills helped them go away.  But later
in life - when I had lots of stress - a digging - I go - but I have
balding and sometimes pimple like eruptions at times - either way - by
the time I scratch and keep scab off - I have bleeding, more baldness,
etc.  I am taking nerve pills for another matter, so I know that won't
help - I've tried Scalpion, various ointments, etc. etc. -  Sometimes
if I can go a few days without "touching them"  they'll heal - but in
one second I can dig at the spot and it's right back - sometimes I
have horrble large sores with scabs and when I pick at them I have a
lot of head bleeding.  It's embarressng to go to hairdresser and also
I've taken to wearing light wigs for my  hair is so thin you can see
the sores clearly.  I'll watch for help.

I wold assume that everyone's sores seem to hang on for ever?  My
experience is to go to my family doctor who simply takes a scaple and
opens up the pimple and pulls out the sack.  He explained it is on the
same order as a cyst and until you get the sack out, it will heall,
but keep coming back.  They don't seem to heal until you have picked
on them for awhile and caused a crater.....that is opening the
sack......and then they go away.

What I have done on my is when the pimple first comes out is to leave
it for 2-3 days....take a cotton ball with alcohol......cleanse the
area......clean a sewing needle.....and then stick the needle deep
into the pimple.  If you press on it, it should go down and then heal
with any antiseptic.

Doctor said nothing can cure them and he and others don't have a clue
what causes them....but cuting them out does the trick......at least
for that particular area........or sticking them yourself with a
needle.

A medication I use on them diprone whih is a steriod type solution and
it does heal them rather quickly.......after I stick them with the
needle.

This is a truly unique & valuable message board on a chronic problem
affecting a lot of folks - let's hope we get to an answer!  In my
case, I live in LA near the ocean and am 54 now and still have my
hair.  I had no major issues, except dandruff controlled with selinium
or coal tar shampoo, and some facial eccema or rosia-redness
controlled well by cortisone cream, until about 5 years ago or so. 
Then I experienced exactly the same situation you all described -
started with one, then two pimple-sores that wouldn't heal & I'd
always pick at.  Now I have a half dozen or more which flare up then
subside but always flare up again.
I believe stress and hormones are very definitely in the mix. Genetics
as well.  I recall somewhat comically my father picking at his bald
head when I was young - but I'm not laughing now. I've used cortisone,
selenium & coal tar shampoos, peroxide, topical antifungals, also
fluocinonide ointment.  No reall help.  Diet may be a factor but mine
hasn't changed in 20 years (?)  I seem to recall my situation relaxing
when I spent 10 days on a Mexican beach, away from divorces, running
my own business, dealing with teenage kids, etc!  Salt water may have
helped but really thinking stress relief too.  When I wasn't thinking
& worrying, I tended to leave my head alone!  Is this a common thread
with all of you??  But we all have to get back to reality I suppose. 
I am going to try the iron suppliments someone mentioned - anyone else
had success or failure with that?  How about the "Neem"?  Think a
balance of pore cleansing & some treatment (maybe Selinium) without
too much oily pore clog is in the right direction.  Keep the feedback
coming!!

Wow...  I was surprised to see that i'm not alone here.  For years now
i've been battling this same thing.  Like the rest of you though, i've
found no permanent solutions so far either.

I did the dermatologist visit, have been to the regular doctor 2 times
in particular (within a year) with a few that abcessed and started to
turn into cellulitis.  Both those times they did cultures and said
that it was a resistant form of staph.  The worst part was because
what had started out on my scalp as those tiny itchy bumps escalated
to form the problem ones that were actually what seemed a quite
dangerous spread of staph infection.

The last time I went to the doctor, I had one on my chest that he
actually had to cut open and pack.  It was about the size of a 50¢
piece.  Very...  very...  painful.  He put me on an antibiotic, and
suggested that it might take an extensive time with antibiotic
therapy.  For my follow up appt., there was a different doctor to see
me.  It was frustrating.  He had different suggestions all together.

Personally, I agree with those who associate this with stress,
harmones, possibliy the iron deficiency and yeast problems.

I found that when I was having the least amount of irritation, I was
not as stressed, I had been exercising more, cutting back on coffee
and drinking more water instead, I was staying away from refined sugar
and white flour more (as in sweets that make you gain weight
anyways...) and also when I was miticulous about keeping my nails
short, keeping a hand sanitizer with me and washing my hands with
antibiotic soap whenever I caught myself touching my scalp.

It was better then.  It's a mess right now.  So I find myself looking
at what i've been doing.  Hmmm...  I drink WAY too much coffee right
now, I haven't exercised in over a year, I have a TON of stress with
my two businesses and being a single parent and when I look in the
mirror I have HUGE dark circles which I believe is due to lack of
iron.

Those headaches that a few mentioned?  Wow...  I have those.  Just
like they said, where it feels like your head is full.  And usually it
is when I have a large one going on.  They literally make me feel sick
and I feel like i've been over using advil because of the pain and low
grade fever.

I am going to try the things that seemed to make it better once before.
If anything, just knowing that i'm not the only one out there that is
having this problem makes me feel a ton better.

I wish everyone the best with finding what helps this go away.  If
anything works for me, I will be sure to pass it along.

Like all the others here I've had this scalp problem for many years. 
I would like to see results.  I'm tired of the symptoms.  My problems
started when I was around 15yrs old and I'm now almost 30.  I've tried
all the store bought shampoos.  I can't keep my hands away from
itching the sores.  I have used Isopropyl Alcohol with q-tips.  This I
believe only helps with preventing the secondary bacterial infection
from getting outta control.  I worry about these bumps killing me via
a secondary infection.  I've spent most of the night doing research on
this subject and found some interesting information regarding fungus
and scalp treatments.  Some of the key words that I found were Kerion,
dermatophyte.  After lots of review of articles from doctors and
colleges I found some info that makes me believe and think it's a
fungus infection that is deep rooted and needs to be treated systemic
with a newer antifungal drug called azoles and at the same time with
topical anti fungal shampoo with selenium sulfide in it.  It's been a
long time since I went to a doctor for this and like all here have
said, it seemed to do no good anyway, most doctors don't know what it
is or how to treat it.  So my goal is to find a doctor who does know
about this problem, then present my research and theory to them.  I'll
keep you all posted.  I did just buy a shampoo at a salon supply store
called betaclar.  has  anyone tried it?

I am so glad I found this site!! I have also suffered with the head
bumps like all of you are describing, been to Drs. tried all meds and
home remedies!!! I have finally come to the conclusion, after much
extensive research , this has to be a form of SHINGLES. My son and
daughter have the same problem as do my 2 sisters . Shingles are
definately stress related and born from a fungus!!! I do find
antidepressants , rest and as little stress as possible seem to
help.The websites that have info on how to treat a shingles outbreak
have been very helpful for me , at least some ideas on a little
relief!! I have gone for as long as 3 years and then here they come
with gusto!!! Good luck and keep us all informed on any new info!

I was so pleased to find this message board today. I have been
suffering from scalp sores like this now for four years. I too have
gone to docors and dermatologists for dianosis and treatment. The best
thing I can say is, the dermatoligist visit did nothing for me. He
froze off the sores I had only for them to return in a week. My
primary care physician I believe has hit it right on the nose. It is
hormonal. The reason I finally came to believe this is true, is the
fact that after extensive surgery last year on my ankle, I had been on
major pain medication. This medication in turn stopped my periods for
6 months. During that entire six month period, I had no sores at all
on my scalp. Once my period returned, the sores did too. I still have
them, and they have no cure. I am going to be making an appointment
very soon, with my endocrinologist. I want her opinion on this. I am
44 years old and been told I am perimenopausal. I also have hashimotos
thyroid disease which is an auto immune condition of the thyroid
gland. Hormonal yes, Is there a cure for us? I certainly hope so. I'll
keep you posted. For now, I am washing my hair with dove soap only,
and using elidal on the sores.

Well my story is in line with the rest.  I have bumps that break outck
of my head.  They itch and get sore ( although mine does not seem as
server as others that have posted) and yes, I find that when I am
under stress the hand magically starts searching and picking.  I did
the docs years ago and did have luck with Diflucan oral and a topical
steriod cream.  Since I have spent the last year on a laundry list of
antibiotic and steriods for another problem, the last thing I want is
to take more crap. So I'm reaching into my Vet bag and pulling out the
Vicks.  Yes, the same Vicks your mother smeared on your chest whenever
you got a cold.  I've been using it on horses for the past couple
years for treating fungal related problems with their hooves (at the
suggestion of my vet).  I just started using it and it has certainly
helped reduce the itching. Not sure how it will work in the long run
as it goes against the basic premise of treatment "if its wet, dry it
and if its dry, keep it wet."  I am also using Denorex, although I
have found all shampoos of that type work about the same.  I'll keep
you posted on my experiment.

I am relieved to know that others know how terrible these sores are. 
I have been to several doctors.  Evidently they have no idea what
causes it or how to treat it.  I started getting them in my teens I am
now 53 menopausal and still suffering with them.  I do not believe
there is a hormonal link.  Stress is a huge component for me.  I just
cant believe with all the new drugs out there they can't treat them
successfully.  It definately has an impact on your way of life.  I'm
afraid the wind will blow my hair and expose this stupid sore on my
scalp.  Shampoos some anyway make it sting,others are too rich and
make it worse, drying it up only encourages picking at it.  Maybe I'll
try the Vicks nothing else has worked .  Getting a haircut is a
terrible experience,I don't know what it is so how can I explain it's
not contagious to them.  I'm also experiencing a different texture to
my hair now it used to be thick and full now it's becoming very fine
and stressed looking. Has anyone else noticed this problem?

Firstly...I have had this problem for years (approx. 5). At start I
found it to be equally frustrating. They had also started to spread on
my face (same size and prolonging). But now I have been able to
control this problem (over the last year). No doctor was able to help
me on this. Even the dermatologist gave me some stuff which did not
help.

I cannot stress this enough but the only thing that is working for me
is DRINKING PLENTY OF WATER (about 3 litres a day) and eating healthy.
I also exercise a lot (i.e. the sweating kind). I occasionally take
iron supplements and always keep my face healthy with moisturisers
etc. From the point I made my first initiation towards rectifying this
problem, it took me 3 months to get to a stage where all the soreness,
flakiness, pimples and itchiness had gone. It?s almost been 8 months
and I have not had a single symptom since.

I have been monitoring this thread post for a while now and now I
believe that the path I have taken to overcome could help many of youz
outhere with similar problems and symptoms.

Hope this helps and thank god for google!

I thought I was a freak with these sores on my scalp so I'm glad to
know I'm not the only one with this problem. I haven't even told my
husband about it becuase it's so yucky. I noticed the first sore in
mid-December. It was small and felt like a pimple. I don't seem to
have as much pain as some of you. That same sore is still there and
now there are more. They have all become cructed over now, but would
ooze when I picked before. I have to admit that I did spend time
picking at it and that's when it got much worse. I caught myself
picking at work and while driving. The hair around the area is
starting to look thin also. I decided that I had to leave it alone and
haven't touched my head in about four days and am happy about that. I
do need to try something so I'll let you know what works. I'm always
stressed so it could be stress related. Thanks for writing. It's great
to be able to hear what you have to say and what successes you've had.

Well I finally had enough and went to a dermatologist who in 2 minutes
took it off.  He said it can result from stress or trauma.  I dont
know and now dont care.  I recommend for any of you that just have the
one to stop all this nonsense over the counter and magic remedies and
go get it taken off.  It takes no time at all.  they will numb it and
presto get it off and laser it a bit if it is on a blood vessel like
mine was.  A quick explanation on how to keep it moist the next day
and then your gone.  I was in there for 10 min and suffered with it
for seven months!

good luck all

I have been dealing with this condition for 15 years now. Doctor after
doctor and no relief. I get them all over my head, not just in one
area.  I have noticed that it gets worse if I use any gel in my hair.
Also recently since it is now t-ball baseball season, I wore my cap at
my son's baseball practice and instantly the next day breakouts all
over. In the back is a large patch and on both sides of my head are
smaller patches of them. Yes, It is extremely painful. I am a male and
do have stress but it seems this is more than just stress related.  I
am going to try some of the things mentioned in this forum. I hope it
helps, otherwise I will just deal with it as usual. By the way I feel
the same way about getting haircuts.  I beg my wife to cut my hair
because it is very embarrassing. Thanks for this site!!