How to get rid of forehead acne?

Covered in this article:
What causes forehead acne? | External causes that contribute to forehead acne | How to get treatment? | What is the best treatment? | How to prevent it? | Types of forehead acne

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What causes forehead acne?

According to Dr. Carolina Fernandez, board-certified dermatologist, forehead acne can be caused by a variety of internal and external factors that affect oil production, pore health, and skin hygiene. Understanding these triggers can help manage and prevent breakouts. 

Here are some of the most common causes of forehead acne:

• Excess oil production: The forehead is part of the T-zone, a face area known for producing more oil than other parts of the face. This excess oil can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, leading to acne breakouts.
• Genetics: Acne often runs in families. If your parents struggled with acne, you may be genetically predisposed to developing it as well.
• Sweating: Sweat can mix with oils and dirt on the skin, particularly if it isn’t washed off promptly, leading to clogged pores and acne. This is especially common in people who work out regularly or live in humid environments.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause, can cause an increase in oil (sebum) production, triggering acne breakouts. This is why many people notice acne flare-ups during certain times in their menstrual cycle or during pregnancy.
• Poor hygiene: Not washing your face or hair regularly, wearing dirty hats or caps, and frequently touching your face with unwashed hands can introduce dirt and bacteria to the skin, clogging pores and causing acne.
• Diet: Certain foods, particularly those high in sugar, dairy, or processed ingredients, have been linked to increased acne breakouts in some individuals. These foods can lead to inflammation and increase oil production, contributing to clogged pores.
• Stress: Stress elevates cortisol levels in the body, which can lead to an increase in oil production and inflammation, contributing to acne on the forehead and other areas of the face.
• Overgrowth of yeast: Malassezia, a yeast that naturally lives on the skin, can overgrow and lead to small, itchy bumps that resemble regular acne. This “fungal acne” is often triggered by excess oil production, humidity, sweating, and antibiotic use, which disrupt the skin’s balance of bacteria and yeast.

What external causes can contribute to forehead acne?

• Environmental factors: High humidity levels can increase sweat and oil production, which can clog pores and trigger acne. Similarly, pollution can deposit particles on the skin that clog pores and contribute to inflammation, leading to breakouts. Washing your face twice a day and using protective skincare can help mitigate these effects.
• Medications: Certain medications can trigger or worsen acne, including corticosteroids (like prednisone), anabolic steroids (often used for muscle building), some birth control pills, lithium (prescribed for mood disorders), anticonvulsants and immunosuppressants (like cyclosporine).
• Hair products: Hair products like oils, gels, and pomades can transfer from your hair to your forehead, blocking pores and causing breakouts known as “pomade acne.” Using non-comedogenic and lightweight products can help prevent this.
• Makeup: Cosmetic acne is caused by makeup products that are comedogenic (pore-clogging), especially if not removed properly at the end of the day. Heavy foundations, powders, and wearing makeup while sweating can block pores and worsen breakouts, particularly on the forehead. Always look for non-comedogenic makeup and remove it thoroughly before bed.

When to consult a dermatologist for acne on your forehead?

Dr. Fernandez says that if you have tried over the counter acne products and they have not helped or your symptoms have become worse, you may want to consider consulting a dermatologist. In most acne cases, the sooner you seek professional treatment the better chances you have of getting rid of your acne, preventing scars, and obtaining clearer skin.

How to get treatment for acne on the forehead?

To get acne treatment, you can have a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist via Miiskin which is around $59. After the first consultation, medication renewals are only $39.

What is the best treatment for forehead acne?

According to Dr. Fernandez, the best treatment for acne on the forehead depends on the type of acne you have and the severity of your symptoms. However, she also added that to achieve clearer skin you may need to include some lifestyle adjustments, adopt a proper skincare routine and, if needed, prescription medication for acne.

Based on your symptoms, your dermatologist may include one or more of following medications in your treatment plan for forehead acne:

Topical forehead acne treatment

• Salicylic acid: Helps unclog pores by exfoliating dead skin cells and controlling oil production.
• Benzoyl peroxide: Reduces bacteria on the skin and helps prevent clogged pores.
• Prescription-strength retinoids: like tretinoin or adapalene can increase cell turnover, preventing clogged pores and reducing acne.
• Topical spironolactone: Used to block androgen receptors in the skin, reducing oil production and controlling hormonal acne.
• Clindamycin: A topical antibiotic that reduces acne-causing bacteria and inflammation in the skin.

Oral medications for forehead acne

• Spironolactone: An oral medication that reduces androgen levels, controlling oil production and hormonal acne.
• Minocycline or doxycycline: Oral antibiotics that help reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation, typically used for moderate to severe acne.
• Isotretinoin: A powerful oral retinoid used for severe, persistent acne. It works by drastically reducing oil production and shrinking sebaceous glands, leading to long-term acne clearance.

These oral and topical acne treatments target different causes of forehead acne, and your dermatologist will recommend the most appropriate options based on the severity and nature of your condition.

A dermatologist’s tips to prevent acne on your forehead 

Dr. Carolina Fernandez gives you these practical tips to prevent the formation of new acne breakouts on your forehead and face.

• Cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that can accumulate throughout the day. 
• Do not squeeze acne breakout to avoid bacteria and scarring.
• Avoid caps, hats or headbands as they can trap sweat and oils on the forehead, leading to clogged pores. 
• Wash your hair before going to sleep if you use oils, gels, and styling products as they can transfer from your hair to your forehead, clogging pores and causing breakouts. 
• Wash your face with mild, fragrance-free products to avoid unnecessary irritation.
• Apply a salicylic acid product a few times per week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
• Avoid touching your face because this can worsen your acne. 
• Remove your makeup before going to bed to allow your skin to breathe overnight.
• Shower after physical activities or sports, as soon as possible to remove sweat, oil, and bacteria from your skin.
• Limit sun exposure and use an oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage without worsening acne.
• Reduce your intake of sugary snacks, fried foods, and dairy products like milk or cheese to help manage acne, as these can contribute to inflammation and excess oil production.
• Make sure to wash your pillowcases once or twice a week to prevent these impurities from clogging pores and causing breakouts.
• Wash your hair regularly and avoid letting it sit on your forehead.
• Drink plenty of water to help maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance and can improve overall skin health, potentially reducing breakouts.
• Incorporate stress-relief techniques like meditation, exercise, or deep breathing to help balance hormones, reduce cortisol levels and prevent acne breakouts.
• Make sure to use a clean towel every time you wash your face. Reusing towels can spread bacteria and oils back onto your skin, increasing the risk of breakouts.
• Sleep 7-9 hours each night to support overall skin health.

Types of forehead acne

Mild acne

Mild acne usually consists of occasional small breakouts, primarily non-inflammatory, such as whiteheads and blackheads. These blemishes are most common on the face but can also affect the neck, chest, and back. Treatment typically involves the use of topical solutions that help unclog pores and reduce bacteria. A gentle, consistent skincare routine is key to managing mild acne effectively.

Moderate acne

Moderate acne involves more frequent breakouts, featuring both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions. These breakouts are more pronounced and can cover a wider area, potentially leading to discomfort and mild scarring. Treatment often includes a combination of topical retinoids and oral antibiotics to reduce bacteria and inflammation. Regular consultations with a dermatologist can ensure that the treatment plan is adjusted for optimal results.

Severe acne

Severe acne is characterized by widespread, painful inflammatory lesions, including papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. This level of acne often results in significant skin damage and scarring. Treatment typically involves a combination of topical and oral antibiotics, with hormonal therapy sometimes included. For severe cases, isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed due to its effectiveness in preventing scarring and reducing severe breakouts.

Hormonal acne

Hormonal acne, often seen in adults, is driven by fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly androgens. It commonly appears around the jawline, chin, and lower face, with symptoms like deep, painful cysts. Treatment often involves the use of oral or topical spironolactone to balance hormone levels and retinoids to reduce oil production and prevent breakouts.

Cystic acne

Cystic acne is a severe form of acne, distinguished by large, painful cysts that form deep within the skin. These cysts can cause significant scarring and are resistant to typical over-the-counter treatments. Treatment usually includes oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and isotretinoin (Accutane), especially in cases with potential for severe scarring.

Nodular acne

Nodular acne is another severe form of acne, marked by large, painful nodules that develop deep beneath the skin’s surface. These nodules can last for weeks and often result in scarring if untreated. Treatment generally involves a combination of oral antibiotics or isotretinoin, along with topical treatments to reduce inflammation and prevent new nodules from forming. Dermatological management is essential for effective control.

Article References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537220/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1535287/
https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(23)02265-X/abstract
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10295805/