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HomeAnswersDermatologydiscoid lupus erythematosus (DLE)

How can I treat the red and white bumps on my scalp?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have these red and white hard lumps on my scalp. Some are not lumpy but, are just marks.

Can you tell me what they are and how to get rid of them?

I have dandruff as well.

Please help.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

It can be pityriasis sicca. The diagnosis can be confirmed with a trichoscopy and skin biopsy. Consider the application of Onabet B lotion (Beclomethasone and Sertaconazole) at bed time over the scalp for 14 days. Use a shampoo that contains 2 % Ketoconazole to wash the scalp twice a week. If there is an increase in the size of the lesion, visit a dermatologist to get examined.

Do you have similar lesions anywhere else on the body?

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I do not have any lesions like this anywhere else, it is just on my scalp. They do not change in color or size.

So, can I just try the shampoo to see if the marks go away?

Please help.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

From your history, they are not raised above the skin surface and have fine scales. One of the differential diagnosis can be DLE (discoid lupus erythematosus). But, again that can be confirmed upon a clinical examination and investigations. I still suggest you go for a skin biopsy and trichoscopy, for which you will need to consult a dermatologist. But yes, you can wash your scalp with the shampoo containing 2% Ketoconazole to treat dandruff.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 25, 2017
Reviewed AtFebruary 27, 2026

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