They say that when you can get sudden breakouts on your usually clear skin it is because of specific reasons and they can be identified for better treatment of the affected areas. These reasons vary from hormonal changes that occur in women every month due to period cycles or even factors like stress or simply environmental aggressors.
Most of us have already suffered from maskne during the pandemic and that involves unwelcome pimples and inflammation on the cheeks and jawline. So, what does it mean if you are suddenly experiencing breakouts on your forehead? We brought on the experts to explain this occurrence.
Dr Ophelia Veratich, Official Dermatologist, L’Oréal Paris gives us all the deets on the reasons why acne appears on the forehead and what are the best ways to treat it.
What Causes Forehead Acne?
“Acne forms due to excessive sebum. Oil called sebum normally lubricates and protects your skin. Certain factors can increase the amount of sebum that is produced, and this sebum increases the likelihood of acne and pimples developing,” says Dr Ophelia.
She further explains the reasons for acne forming on your forehead below:
Hair Products
Hair products, such as gels, oils, or waxes, are linked to breakouts which is known as pomade acne. These products are likely to clog your pores on contact with the skin and therefore, if not careful, you can see a pimple pop up on your forehead due to these styling products.
Skin Irritation
Using makeup on the forehead or wearing hats, can occlude the skin leading to congestion and acne. Sweat from wearing a hat in hot weather combined with makeup is a recipe for pimples.
Hormonal Changes
Acne can occur at any age but is particularly common in puberty because hormone levels fluctuate significantly. It is also normal to experience acne in adulthood during your menstrual cycles.
Stress
There is a link between stress and outbreaks of acne, but the reasons for this are unclear.
Hygiene
Not washing the hair and face regularly can lead to oil deposits with dirt and grime on the forehead creating blockages that prompt acne.
What Is The Best Way To Treat Acne Breakouts On This Level?
“For most people, a good skincare regimen can really help get acne under control. I would recommend washing your face twice a day (no more) with warm water and a face wash that suits your skin. Gently massage your face in circular motions without scrubbing, as over-washing and scrubbing can strip the skin causing an increase in oil production in the skin,” says Dr Ophelia.
She further explains that the best way to moisturise is after cleansing, leaving your face slightly damp and using a moisturiser with an ingredient like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture. An active ingredient like hyaluronic acid is great for adding moisture back to the skin, in a gentle way as it’s a light formulation that won’t congest your skin. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the skin responsible for the skin’s hydration.
So, after applying 3-4 drops of a hyaluronic acid serum and follow it up with a pea-sized amount of hyaluronic acid cream. Gently massage these products into your skin as it will help to replenish hyaluronic acid that is already existent in the skin.
“Additionally, popping pimples is a big no-no. I know it is tempting, but popping pimples can push infected material further into the skin, leading to more swelling and redness, and even scarring. Most importantly, avoid touching your face with your fingers or leaning your face on objects that collect sebum and skin residue like your phone,” concludes Dr Ophelia.
Guess that means covering the pimple with a hydrocolloid patch would prevent touching the lesion directly.
Who knew hyaluronic acid was such a pimple-fighting saviour?
Featured Images: Pexels
