Hair follicles are the skin openings out of which hair grows.

These bumps look like pimples along the hairline on the back of the neck and can become infected.

Treatments are available for managing symptoms and for reducing triggers of AKN.

Woman washing her face

Petri Oeschger / Getty Images

This article discusses the treatment methods available for managing symptoms of AKN and preventing infection.

Your healthcare provider will do a physical examination to determine mild grade symptoms vs. severe or advanced AKN.

Topical benzoyl peroxide 2.5% and adapalene 1% were prescribed.

A person with chronic acne keloidalis nuchae

Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023.

Many of the treatments can take months and recurrences are common.

Treatment for AKN doesnt always result in zero signs and symptoms.

Triggers and Possible Causes

AKN mainly develops in young men between the ages of 14 and 25.

It is more prevalent in males than females, particularly men with coarse, stiff, or curly hair.

Your healthcare provider or dermatologist will discuss hair and neck hygiene with you.

Reproduced with permission from A DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023.

Lumps left untreated can progress to sepsis or bacterial infection or growth and spread (metastasis) of cancer.

Treatment is geared toward managing symptoms and reducing risk of skin infection.

Consult with your healthcare provider or dermatologist for antibiotic treatment.

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Acne keloidalis nuchae: causes.

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Acne keloidalis: diagnosis and treatment.

  1. doi:10.2147/CCID.S99225

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Skin infections.

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Acne clinical guideline.