Advice on Acne Keloidalis Treatment

Acne keloidals nuchae (AKN) is a condition that occurs at the nape of the neck in which the hair grows inward, become inflamed and cause scar tissue. It most frequently affects people with wiry hair and usually occurs due to the hair at the nape of the neck being cut short. Treatment may include antibiotics, steroidal injections or surgical removal of the hair.

Characteristics

• It is not known why AKN occurs. However the condition can affect anyone. Because it mostly strikes persons with wiry, close-cropped or shaven hair, African American Men are the most widely stricken demographic. There may be a genetic factor that determines who develops it, but the current theory is that it is related to chronic, deep folliculitis in the back of the neck area.

Self Care

• Because AKN is basically a large area of ingrown hair, basic care can be undertaken at home to prevent infection. The area should be gently washed with mild cleansers and hats or other head wear, such as sports helmets, should be avoided to prevent irritation. Close-cropped haircuts that require having the back of the neck shaved should also be avoided. An over-the-counter medication, such as cortisone cream, can help to control the itch.

Medical Attention

• In addition to caring for the lesions at home, a patient should seek medical care from a doctor to heal the acne. A physician may prescribe an antibiotic cream, a topical retinol, an antibacterial gel or a steroid. Should the patient not seek medical care, the infected area may scar and the patient may experience permanent hair loss to the area.

Hair Removal

• Should the nape of the neck become prone to AKN, the patient may wish to have the hair follicles removed. This will help to prevent future infections. The most popular options for removing hair to prevent AKN are laser surgery, freezing or cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen.