Hairline Breakouts: Include Pillowcases and Headwear in the Product Review
HairArticleAAD advises washing items that retain hair-product residue, alongside reviewing the products that touch your skin.
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Include the things your head touches
AAD explains that hair-care products can cause breakouts along the hairline, forehead or back of the neck. Oils in products can reach the skin and clog pores. The location alone does not identify the cause of your bumps.1
Check for residue beyond the bottle
When hair products are contributing to acne, residue can remain on items your head touches. AAD advises washing these:1
- Pillowcases and sheets.
- Caps and hats.
- Headbands and visors.1
Review the products with the skin concern
Bring your hair-product names into the discussion, including shampoos, conditioners and styling products. AAD notes that several kinds can contain oil.1
You could ask: “Could my hair products be contributing to these breakouts, and which items touching my head should I wash?” If the problem does not clear, a dermatologist can help.1
Hair, Everywhere includes a Hair Log and visit script. Use them to organize product observations and questions. Explore the hair playbook.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- American Academy of DermatologyAre your hair care products causing breakouts? (opens in a new tab)abcde
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