What does the location of your acne signify?
When you first notice acne, where it is occurring is crucial to finding the remedy. It has different causes and cures depending on the location.
Starting with the most common, your face. Some may be in the biggest hurry to remove acne from their face, but it’s one of the most sensitive areas to heal. Forehead acne can be the result of hormonal changes in the body. This can lead to excess production of oil and sebum. Some may notice this happening at the time of menstruation or pregnancy. One of the best ways to unclog these pores is by gentle exfoliation. Products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and azelaic acid will be your best bet.
Next, is acne appearing on your cheeks. Studies have shown that this can be caused by frequently touching your face with unclean hands, dirty pillowcases, or used towels. A simple way to prevent this is washing your pillowcases once a week; silk pillowcases are the best for the skin barrier. I also recommend purchasing white towels for your face, so that you can bleach and wash them once a week as well. The next common cause is makeup products. For acne appearing anywhere on your face, double cleansing will be a helpful step added to your routine. Using an oil-based cleanser as a first step to remove your makeup and get into your pores will make a difference. Then following with a water-based cleanser should be a fix.
Another common area on your face is the chin, jawline, and neck area. This is often due to hormones. Many teenagers, women on their period, or pregnant women can experience this during times of immense hormonal imbalance. It may be beneficial to speak to a doctor about possible prescription options to regulate hormonal acne. Treatments like birth control and Accutane have proven to be very effective. Cleansing your face every night and every day can be a key factor in keeping your skin acne-free. Another common cause can, again, be bacteria or sweat. Many athletes who wear helmets can experience this. A great way to prevent this is to avoid touching your face, clean your items of clothing properly, and wash your sheets well.
Finally, back acne. Commonly referred to as “bacne,” can be stubborn and painful. This can be caused by multiple things, such as sweat, oil, and bacteria. I suggest washing your clothes, pillowcases, and sheets often because, similar to your face, bacteria can be the cause of stubborn acne. If you are someone who conditions the ends of their hair, I would also try to rinse out the conditioner and then wash your body afterward. Studies have shown that the conditioner can clog your pores and create pimples. This simple step can make a huge difference!
1) Laura Dorwart, "What Causes Acne on the Forehead?," Very Well Health, last modified August 16, 2023, accessed March 28, 2024, https://www.verywellhealth.com/forehead-acne-7505280#:~:text=Forehead%20acne%20has%20many%20potential,of%20mild%20to%20moderate%20acne.
2) Kristen Jokela, "Acne Face Mapping: What Your Skin Is Trying to Tell You," Curology, last modified January 29, 2024, accessed March 28, 2024, https://curology.com/blog/pimple-face-mapping-what-pimples-on-specific-areas-of-your-face-means/#:~:text=Acne%20on%20the%20cheeks%20can,on%20your%20hand%20can%20contribute.
3) Jacqueline Andriakos, "Acne Face Mapping: How to Determine the Cause of Your Breakouts," Health, last modified August 25, 2023, accessed March 28, 2024, https://www.health.com/condition/acne/acne-face-mapping#:~:text=with%20a%20dermatologist.-,Chin%20or%20Jaw,production%2C%20which%20clogs%20your%20pores.
4) Cleveland Clinic medical professional, "Back Acne," Cleveland Clinic, last modified April 15, 2022, accessed March 28, 2024, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22756-back-acne.
