Hair Loss Terms Explained: Scalp Pustules

Pustules are collections of pus. Scalp PustuleThey are 1-4 mm in size and appear as yellow, white or red in color. Pustules may or may not contain bacteria. However, some pustules are completely free of bacteria and called “sterile pustules”.  If pustules are seen on the scalp, a swab is often performed to see if the pustules contain bacteria.  If bacteria are present and it is concluded that there is a true infection in the scalp, a topical or oral antibiotic medication might be prescribed.  In some cases, pustules are indicative of a scalp disease and persistent pustules should be evaluated by a physician.