For many, pesky pimples can be unsightly or cause embarrassment. Some people have acne breakouts consistently on their cheeks. Others find their self-esteem crushed by chin acne. However, one of the most common areas where you might notice acne is your forehead. And since it’s in a highly visible area, dealing with such an outbreak can be an irritating and stressful experience.
Luckily, like most types of pimples, forehead acne is almost always treatable. Below, you’ll find all the information you need to learn how to get rid of forehead acne. But first, let’s learn more about acne and what causes it.
What Is Acne?
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Acne is a skin condition that occurs when dead skin and oil accumulate in the hair follicles. It usually causes blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples.
They can appear anywhere on your body but are most prevalent on your forehead, face, shoulders, chest, and upper back, since these areas have the most oil glands. And while acne is very common among teenagers, it can affect a variety of people regardless of their age.
Forehead Acne: 3 Causes
As previously mentioned, acne is typically caused by oil that gets trapped in the hair follicles. However, there are a number of factors that increase oil production, making you more likely to experience acne.
1. Puberty
The majority of people get acne during puberty. That’s because the surge in hormone levels also increases oil production, causing pimples. During these early breakouts, acne will be more common on the forehead and on the face.
2. Hair Products
Forehead acne breakouts can also occur due to the hair products you use. In fact, hair straightening and typing products are known to cause acne. That’s mainly the case for products that contain coconut oil or coconut butter, as they leave your skin extra oily.
3. Makeup or Clothing Irritation
If your skin is sensitive, some makeup products and clothing can also cause forehead acne. Headbands or hats are known to increase the risk of acne, mainly because they trap sweat and block your pores.
How Long Does It Take for Forehead Acne to Go Away?
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Generally speaking, pimples will go away on their own in one or two weeks. However, some severe cases of acne will take as much as six weeks to disappear. During that time, you need to avoid popping the pimples at all costs. Not only will popping cause scars, but it can lead to infections.
How to Get Rid of Forehead Acne: 3 Ways
Although forehead acne can be annoying, even severe breakouts are treatable using good skincare habits, over-the-counter medicine, or natural remedies.
1. Good Skincare Habits
It is advised that you wash your face two times a day using a gentle cleanser. That should remove excess oil from your skin, reducing swelling and preventing further outbreaks.
2. Natural Remedies
These natural remedies might help combat mild acne:
• Azelaic acid
• Aloe vera
• Tea tree oil
• Zinc
• Green tea extract
3. Prescription Treatment
Severe acne usually requires professional help from a dermatologist. They will be able to provide you with stronger treatment based on your specific situation. Typically, doctors will recommend you use:
• Antibiotics
• Retinoids
• Benzoyl peroxide formulation
• Anti-androgen agent
• Birth control pills
• Laser treatment
• Chemical peels