Forehead Acne Skincare Routine for Men & Women
Forehead acne is a common concern for men and women of all ages. If you suffer from frequent acne breakouts on your forehead, this is everything you need to know about how to help control the appearance of those irritating acne spots.
What Causes Forehead Acne?
The T-zone is the area of the face around the eyebrows and the top of the nose. This is a common place where people develop acne because it is where the skin has the highest concentration of oil glands. Forehead acne, like most forms of acne, is caused by excess production of sebum oil and pores that are clogged with oil and bacteria-carrying debris such as dirt or makeup. Clogged pores can become infected or inflamed, leading to painful acne breakouts. There are many possible causes of forehead acne but these are some of the most common acne triggers:
Hair Products
Hair products containing alcohol or acids could irritate the skin and worsen acne on the forehead. Hair products may also contain oils like argan oil, coconut oil, palm oil, and more that clog the pores. Avoid products like gel, wax, and pomades or be careful about how much you apply.
Puberty
Hormonal changes during puberty will alter the amount of oil your skin produces. If you suddenly start to produce more oil during puberty and your teenage years, it is easier for clogged pores and the resulting acne to develop.
Makeup
Makeup can clog the pores, especially when thick layers of foundation or other products are applied. Additionally, makeup that is left on the skin can invade the pores of your skin and cause an acne breakout. Your skin might also be sensitive to certain chemicals in your makeup products so consider a non-comedogenic product.
Medication
Several prescription medications list acne breakouts and skin sensitivity as possible side effects. Some of these medications include steroids, barbiturates, and lithium. If you think your medication could be a possible trigger for your forehead acne or you are starting a new medication, talk to your doctor about this potential side effect.
How to Get Rid of Forehead Acne
Change Your Pillowcase
You might not want to think about this, but your pillowcase can harbor bacteria and dirt that may be worsening your acne. Change your pillowcase and sheets regularly to give your skin a clean place to relax and rest. You should also wash your face before going to bed each night to prevent the transfer of surface debris that may have built up on your skin throughout the day.
Keep Hands Away from Face
Your hands come in contact with a lot of bacteria-harboring items throughout the day (doorknobs, phones, etc.). Transferring that bacteria to your face could worsen inflammation and exacerbate an acne breakout.
Avoid Headbands & Hats
Many people wear headbands or hats while working out which means those accessories harbor the sweat you shed. Headbands and hats may also put pressure or friction on the forehead which could irritate the skin and existing acne.
No Pimple Popping
The pimple popping trend might look satisfying but popping or picking at pimples could worsen your breakout. Popping a pimple spreads the bacteria to the surrounding area which could cause more acne to form. Additionally, picking at acne spots could lead to permanent scarring.
Wash Your Forehead After Prolonged Activity
After exercising, it is always important to give your skin a fresh start by thoroughly cleansing it to remove sweat, dirt, and environmental impurities. Sweat does not directly cause acne, but it can worsen clogged pores in combination with oil production and surface impurities.
Morning Skincare Routine
- Wash hands
- Apply cleanser
- Pat face dry
- Toner
- Spot treatment
- Apply lightweight moisturizer
- Apply sunscreen
Evening Skincare Routine
- Wash hands
- Apply cleanser
- Double cleanse if wearing makeup
- Mask and exfoliate (once a week)
- Toner
- Apply serum
- Apply moisturizer
Our Recommended Products
- Clarify Starter Kit: clarify treatment kit that includes the probiotic facial cream, clarify cleanser, and clarify exfoliating astringent
- Clarify Blemish Eraser: another great option for spot treatment that includes salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and aloe vera
- Brazilian Propolis Duo: a mist and lotion rich in vitamins and minerals that moisturize the skin
- Citrus Herbal Cleanser: a sulfate-free cleanser that dissolves excess oil
- Chai Soy Mud Mask: targets clogged pores and excess oil while visibly brightening the skin with antioxidants and minerals
- Volcanic Clay Mask: the perfect mask for all skin types to soften and brighten the appearance of the skin
Find Your Perfect Acne Treatment at Epicuren Discovery
Epicuren Discovery is dedicated to healthy, happy skin with quality-made products proven to be effective for helping with acne and many other skin concerns. Take a Skin Quiz to find the best products for your skin type and browse our collection of products targeted for acne treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get rid of forehead acne overnight?
Unfortunately, it can take several days or weeks before you see clear skin but with the right products, you might see small improvements overnight.
Will using a moisturizer make forehead acne worse?
There is a common misconception, although understandable, that using moisturizer could worsen acne. In contrast, not using moisturizer will make your skin produce more oil to try and keep it hydrated. This excess oil production is what will contribute to acne breakouts, not moisturizers.
Will a cleanser help with forehead acne?
Yes! Cleansing the skin removes surface impurities like makeup and dirt that can clog the pores. Products with salicylic acid are a great choice because they can break up clogged pores and prevent acne breakouts.