Experiencing face breaking out is a reality for most of us at some or other point in life. While having a clear, glowing complexion is something many of us desire, it is not easy to stay breakout-free. Moreso, when we are leading hectic lifestyles, surrounded by pollutants, and exposed to numerous chemicals every day.
If you too are wondering what causes breakouts on face and are seeking effective treatment for breakouts on face, this article is a must-read for you.
Understanding Face breaking out
Before we find out the different causes of breakouts, let us understand what is breakout on face.
A breakout, or acne, occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This leads to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Several factors contribute to this process, including — hormones, genetics, and lifestyle choices.
Chin Breakouts
Breakouts on the chin are a common issue and they can be quite frustrating due to their prominence. Here are reasons that cause chin breakouts:
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Hormonal changes, especially in women, can clog pores which can lead to chin breakouts. This often occurs during or just before menstrual cycles and during pregnancy. Chin breakouts also happen when starting or discontinuing birth control pills.
- Touching the Face: Resting your chin on your hands or frequently touching your chin can transfer bacteria from your hands to your face. This increases the likelihood of chin breakouts.
- Diet: An imbalanced diet, that is high in sugary or processed foods, can lead to inflammation and contribute to chin breakouts.
What You Can Do
To address chin breakouts, it’s essential to:
- Maintain a consistent skincare routine.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Consider incorporating anti-acne products such as those with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in your skincare regime.
Breakouts on Cheeks
Breakouts on the cheeks can be bothersome as they can be challenging to conceal. Here are some common causes of breakouts on cheeks:
- Cell Phone Usage: Holding your phone against your cheek can transfer bacteria and oil to your skin, leading to breakouts on cheeks.
- Dirty Pillowcases: Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase can transfer oil, dirt, and bacteria to your cheeks.
- Makeup and Skincare Products: Low-quality or expired makeup and skincare products can clog pores. This leads to breakouts on cheeks.
What You Can Do
To combat breakouts on cheeks, it is vital to:
- Maintain good hygiene practices, use clean makeup brushes, and change your pillowcase regularly.
- Clean your phone regularly and avoid extended periods of phone contact with your cheeks.
- Consider using products containing ingredients like glycolic acid or niacinamide to help keep your pores clear.
Forehead Breakouts
Breakouts on the forehead are often visible and can be challenging to conceal. Here are some reasons behind forehead breakouts:
- Hair Products: Certain hair products, such as hair sprays, gels, and oils, can migrate to the forehead and clog pores, leading to breakouts. Be mindful of the products you use.
- Hats and Headbands: Wearing tight-fitting hats and headbands can trap sweat and oil against your forehead. This creates a breeding ground for breakouts.
- Stress: High stress levels can trigger hormonal changes contributing to forehead breakouts.
What You Can Do
To address forehead breakouts, it is important to –
- Be mindful of the hair products you use and their proximity to your forehead.
- Opt for breathable accessories.
- Practice stress management through relaxation techniques or exercise.
- Use products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in treating forehead acne.
Treatment for Breakouts on Your Face
Here are some general tips for treating and preventing face breaking out:
- Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face twice a day to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
- Exfoliation: Exfoliate your skin regularly to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Choose products with gentle exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).
- Moisturizing: Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.
- Spot Treatment: Apply spot treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to individual pimples.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV damage by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Sunscreen also prevents post-acne hyperpigmentation.
- Professional Help: If your breakouts are severe or persistent, consult a dermatologist for personalized options of treatment for breakouts on your face.
Conclusion
Dealing with face breaking out, whether on your chin, cheeks, or forehead, can be frustrating. However, understanding the causes and implementing the proper skincare routine can help you achieve clearer skin. Remember that maintaining good hygiene practices, managing stress, and choosing suitable skincare products are critical steps in preventing and treating breakouts. With patience and consistency, you can regain a clear and glowing complexion.