The head, scalp, and face have many blood vessels close to the surface of the skin, and even small cuts may bleed profusely.

Emergency treatment is needed when a cut is deep or may have penetrated the skull. Call 911 or other emergency services immediately. Do not apply pressure if:

• The head wound shows a deformity of the skull, such as sunken areas, bone fragments, or exposed brain.
• Do not attempt to stop any blood or clear fluid drainage from the nose or ears.

Superficial bleeding from a cut on the head can usually be stopped with firm direct pressure on the wound. If you cannot stop the bleeding with direct pressure, a visit to a health professional is needed.