Acne keloidalis nuchae, also known as “AKN”, “acne keloidalis” or “folliculitis keloidalis”, is a painful type of folliculitis that can sometimes appear after a close shave or haircut. The disease develops when hair follicles become inflamed. While the body tries to heal itself, a new thick, scar-like tissue begins to form after the preliminary inflammation. The first few times these harsh, painful bumps appear on the back of the head, it is easy to mistake them for a common case of razor burn, but the truth is a little more long-lasting than a case of skin irritation. Over-the-counter drugs and antibiotic prescriptions from certified dermatologists can only help keep the bumps at bay by managing pain and symptoms temporary relief, and not by curing. There are, however, viable treatment options for bumps on back of head after haircut. Here’s how you can cure the big bump on the back of your head: to truly rid the back of the head from these unruly bumps, there is a special acne keloidalis nuchae removal surgery that permanently removes these unsightly bumps.
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae: The Basics
The condition often referred to as AKN typically affects men between the ages of 13 through 25. It is thought to be more likely to develop in hispanic men and men of African descent based off of the structure and growth patterns of the hair follicles, as well as the prevalence of short, closely shaved hairstyles within this community. Since the possibility of growing more tightly coiled, curly, coarse hair is higher, so is the chance of developing mild to chronic acne keloidalis nuchae. This results in 0.45% of every case of dermatosis being within the population of men of color. It is believed that the improper regrowth of hair, particularly after a close shave, cause skin irritation, thus resulting in the swelling of follicles, creating lesions of keloid-like scarring. While AKN does not always appear after fresh, close shaves and haircuts, it is proven to be more likely. However, another popular thought shared by many dermatologists, including Dr. Umar, is that AKN may be related to hormone disbursement in the body. These would refer to the same hormones that cause common bumps in various places on the skin known as pimples.
Symptoms of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae
Got a few bumps on the back of your head after a haircut and think it might be AKN? Generally, the first symptom is a collection of bumps that are also known as papules and pustules. These papules can be filled with a white discharge, resulting in the misconception that they are merely pimples. While the condition starts off as simple, pimple-like bumps on the back of the head, if left untreated the bumps eventually join together to create a single mass formation of thick scar-like tissue.
During this progress of the condition, it is not uncommon to see broken or ingrown hairs surrounding the mass build up. But it is important to remember that in severe cases, this advancement can result in permanent hair loss. Beside the unappealing aesthetic nature of the bumps, acne keloidalis nuchae can become quite painful and itchy producing pruritus. Pruritus is a particular itch that can be associated with dry skin, specific skin diseases and more. Note that in more severe cases, pus and a bloody (or sometimes clear) discharge is noticed to leak from the lesions. While the symptoms look and feel uncomfortable, it is important to remember that these masses are benign.
Surgical Treatments for Acne Keloidalis Nuchae and Bumps on Back of Head After Haircut
There are several notable surgical treatments to relieve bumps on the back of the head including:
- Excision with Primary Closure
- Combined Excision and Grafting
- Staged Excision Using Primary Closure
- Electrosurgical Excision
- Excision Where Wound is Closed with Primary Closure
- Excision Using Secondary Intention Healing
- Trichophytic Closure Following Excision
Unique Incision by Dr. U to Treat AKN Bumps on Back of Head After Haircut
Dr. U’s expertise in acne keloidalis nuchae removal surgery led to the birth of his tried and true “Bat” incision technique. This unique method of removal requires the complete surgical extraction of the growing lesion mass from the back of the head. The unique incision shapes encourage healing that results in more normal looking scar line that forms the new posterior neck hairline. Typically, scarring after a surgical removal can be just as visible as the initial condition but patients have responded positively to Dr. U’s distinct method even stating that after months or years of growing their hair out to hide their AKN lesions, they can finally cut their hair short again. After cutting out the lesion, Dr. U’s incision method strives to result in a disguised, healed scar that is most camouflaged along the posterior hairline. This very reason is why clients continue to seek out the specialized prowess of Dr. U. Watch below to see real patient testimonials!
Photo: Before & After Surgical Treatment for Bumps on the Back of the Head
Video: Before and After Surgical Treatments for Hair Bumps on Back of Head and Neck
The patient featured in this video had a previous procedure done to treat his AKN several years prior that infected the area, resulting in an even worse condition. After reaching out to Dr. U and a subsequent surgery, the affected rear scalp AKN was removed and refined to form a less intrusive scar. The patient was elated with the results saying, “Before I was very conscious about it. I didn’t want anyone to stand behind me. Now, I don’t really think about it.”
Photo: Before & After Treatment for Big Bump on Back of Head
This patient wanted to get rid of the bumps on the back of his neck as well, so he consulted Dr. U in Los Angeles.
Video: Before and After Surgical Treatments for Bumps on Back of Head and Neck
Steroid injections, topical cream and peroxide shampoos did little to help this patient’s agonizing neck bumps. But after a much-needed consultation with Dr. U and his advanced surgical technique coupled with the closure method, the patient’s condition was not only eradicated but the remaining scar inconspicuously healed allowing for it to easily blend along the back hairline.
To consult with Dr. U about bumps on back of head after a haircut, or other AKN symptoms, use the button below.
Frequently Asked Questions – Bumps on Back of Head After Haircut
Are there natural remedies for hair bumps on the back of the head?
While more severe cases of acne keloidalis nuchae are prime candidates for surgical solutions, when caught early enough, some cases can be managed or treated with laser treatments or topical and injectable medicines. Unfortunately, their is little hope for cure with the use of natural remedies or forms of medicine. When the condition goes untreated and worsens, topical medications will not be good choice for long term treatment of the bumps on the back of the head as they are not likely to react or respond to the medicines.
Why do I see bumps on back of head after a haircut? What is the bump on the back of my head caused by?
It is said that the regrowth of tightly coiled, coarse hair can cause inflammation of the hair follicles, resulting in bumps on the back of the head. While the hair tries to repair itself and the inflamed hair follicle, thick scar tissue builds up, allowing the development of a grouping of pimple-like bumps. because it almost exclusively affects men, there may be a hormonal basis for AKN formation.
Where can I get treated for these bumps on the back of my head?
It is important for patients wondering how to cure bumps in the back of head to remember that not all dermatologists offer removal surgeries for acne keloidalis nuchae, and there may arise a need to have them referred to a specialist who performs the procedure on a regular basis.
Further Reading – Bumps on Back of Head After Haircut
For more information about acne keloidalis nuchae and why you’ve developed bumps on the back of your head, visit this page about the development of the condition.
Read this clinic research study that highlights the obstacles in treating this condition.