muhmae

Hairs are connected to pores, blocked pores result in pimples. Hair acts as a vessel for the skins sebum and other bodily debris to exit the skin. So I would say you are correct in thinking the hair loss and increase in acne is related.

Try alternating heat and ice. The pimples are red and inflamed because your body is working to fight off contaminates. Applying heat (don't burn yourself) speeds along this process and the ice cools it all off. Refrain from popping, if it hurts so much I'd hope you already are. If you must pop, buy an extractor, they wont leave horrible scars if used properly.