Dermatologists’ Advice on Treating and Preventing Forehead Acne

Currently, my forehead is like a valuable plot of land that various imperfections have taken up residence on, including whiteheads, blackheads, and even cystic acne. The bothersome existence of acne on my forehead prompted me to conduct a quick Google search, revealing that it is actually quite common since this area tends to produce an excess of oil. Hormonal changes during puberty and periods of intense stress, which seem to be a constant presence in my life, exacerbate this issue. Armed with this newfound knowledge, I decided it was time to consult the experts and unravel the mystery behind my persistent forehead acne.

I had a great conversation with three experienced dermatologists, Kunal Malik, MD, Nava Greenfield, MD, and Hadley King, MD, and they provided valuable insights on the root causes of forehead acne. Now, I’m excited to pass on all the knowledge I gathered, including effective methods to combat and avoid forehead acne. Whether you’re struggling with blocked pores, blackheads, whiteheads, or a mixture of these pesky blemishes, I’ve got you covered with the best tips and tricks. So, let’s dive in and explore the realm of forehead acne together!

According to Dr. Malik, the appearance of acne on your forehead is the result of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria blocking your pores and causing inflammation. This is similar to how acne develops on other parts of your face or body. The main factors contributing to excessive oil production are genetics and hormones, as your hormones can stimulate the body to produce more oil, which in turn promotes the growth of bacteria and leads to inflammation. Interestingly, some individuals have hormone receptors that are more sensitive, which means they are prone to experiencing breakouts regardless of whether they are going through a menstrual cycle or puberty. Thanks, DNA!

What are some other factors that can greatly increase your oil production? Everyday stress, along with health issues, can be major stressors that impact your body’s oil production. Additionally, your eating habits and surrounding environment play a role. Little actions like wearing hats or headbands, frequently touching your forehead, or neglecting to wash your pillowcase can contribute to sweat and sebum becoming trapped on your forehead, resulting in acne breakouts. It’s important to be aware of sneaky causes as well, such as hair products that are rich in greasy ingredients like olive or coconut oils, waxes, and butters like shea butter. These can potentially clog your pores if they come into contact with your forehead.

Dr. Malik explains that when it comes to forehead acne, there are various types that can occur. Instead of using complicated language or jargon, let’s break it down in a simpler way. Okay, so here’s the deal – our foreheads can experience different kinds of acne. You know, those pesky little bumps that pop up on our foreheads? Well, Dr. Malik says they can come in different forms. Basically, our foreheads can be home to not just one type, but a few different types of acne.

Dr. Malik suggests that forehead acne can be a combination of various factors. However, Dr. Greenfield explains that each type of acne is formed in a slightly different way. For instance, comedones often occur when sweat and keratin build up in the pores and sweat ducts, resulting in a bump that can appear white or black, depending on whether it has been exposed to air. On the other hand, papules and pustules are typically the result of bacterial overgrowth that leads to inflammation. As a result, these pimples tend to appear red or purple/brown, depending on your skin tone. Fortunately, the treatment for all these types of acne is quite similar, which leads us to the next point…

If you’re bothered by those pesky bumps adorning your forehead or any form of acne in that area, fret not! There are two routes you can take to tackle this predicament: over-the-counter remedies or professional consultations and treatments. Dr. King suggests that when dealing with acne at home, it’s wise to seek out products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or adapalene (a type of retinoid for acne) based on the specific type of acne you’re experiencing. So, with these options at your disposal, you can bid farewell to those forehead troubles in no time!

According to Dr. King, benzoyl peroxide has been a trusted solution for treating acne for more than six decades due to its impressive efficacy in combating both pustular and papular acne, as well as unclogging pores. This powerful ingredient not only eradicates the bacteria responsible for causing acne but also helps prevent new breakouts and inflammation. An effective way to incorporate benzoyl peroxide into your skincare routine is to wash your face with a benzoyl peroxide cleanser once a day, or apply a spot treatment directly on pesky zits. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness, so it’s crucial to follow up with a moisturizer and avoid using other potent chemical exfoliants or retinoids on the same evening. Additionally, it’s advisable to use white towels to dry your face and sleep on white pillowcases as benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics.

When it comes to blackheads and whiteheads, salicylic acid is the go-to choice. Unlike other substances, salicylic acid has the ability to penetrate deep into your pores thanks to its oil solubility. This helps it to break down the bonds that keep dead skin cells trapped on the surface of your skin. According to Dr. King, salicylic acid is also suitable for those with sensitive skin, as long as it’s used at a 2 percent concentration. As an added benefit, it can be combined with benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, or AHAs for even more effective results.

Dr. King suggests that topical retinoids are a great solution for fighting acne and keeping your pores clear. Retinoids, such as adapalene which is considered the best option for over-the-counter acne treatment, work by accelerating the process of cell turnover. This means that your skin cells shed more rapidly, resulting in fewer clogged pores. Additionally, the increased cell turnover can gradually reduce hyperpigmentation, as Dr. King mentions.

A potential drawback of using retinol and retinoids is that they may cause dryness and irritation. To minimize these effects, it is important to gradually introduce them into your skincare routine. Begin by applying a small amount, equivalent to the size of a pea, to your entire face. Avoid spot treatment and do this once a week for the first week. Then, increase the frequency to twice a week for the following two weeks. Afterward, continue using them three times a week indefinitely. If you experience any tightness or patchiness, you can alleviate it by applying a nourishing moisturizer that contains ingredients like aloe vera or allantoin. This will help to soothe and calm your skin.

If you’ve been dealing with stubborn cystic pimples or those pesky forehead acne that just won’t go away no matter what homemade remedies you try, it’s time to seek help from a dermatologist. Don’t worry, you can either schedule an in-person appointment or conveniently consult with a dermatologist online via platforms like Curology or Ro. By talking to a professional, you can discuss the possible reasons behind your acne and explore advanced treatments that require a prescription. Your dermatologist may suggest using one or a combination of the following strategies to tackle your skin issues:

According to Dr. Malik, forehead acne may sometimes be a result of stress, although it is crucial to note that not all instances of forehead acne are caused by stress. When you encounter stress or anxiety, your cortisol hormones rise significantly. This occurrence is perfectly normal on occasion, but continuous elevation of cortisol levels due to chronic stress leads to the release of “substance P,” also known as SP. Substance P is a neurotransmitter found in the nerve endings of your skin and can trigger your oil glands to produce excessive sebum. Dr. King explains that when there is an excess of oil combined with increased inflammation, it results in pores becoming clogged and breakouts occurring. However, it’s important to understand that stress acne can manifest anywhere on your body, not solely on your forehead. In the same way, acne on your forehead can be attributed to a variety of causes, as mentioned earlier.

According to Dr. King, the duration of forehead pimples can vary greatly, ranging from a mere two to three days to a long period of two to three weeks, or even months for blind pimples and cystic zits. The length of time depends on the specific type of acne and the effectiveness of the products you are using to address the issue. Dr. King explains that smaller clogged pores may clear up within just a few days, while inflammatory pimples might take a couple of weeks to show improvement. To speed up the healing process, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist who can create a personalized treatment plan for you. In the meantime, considering the use of one of the active ingredients mentioned earlier could be beneficial.

If you’re struggling with acne on your forehead, there are several possible causes. It could be due to neglecting to clean your pillowcase regularly, feeling stressed about an upcoming exam, or experiencing hormonal fluctuations. If you’ve already tried salicylic acid and topical retinols without success, it might be worth scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist to specifically address your forehead blemishes. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this struggle. Forehead acne is a common issue, and your dermatologist will be able to provide you with a treatment plan swiftly and efficiently.

Iman Balagam, a beauty contributor at Cosmopolitan, has built up a wealth of expertise over almost three years, producing a diverse range of beauty content. From covering the latest trends in laser hair removal services to examining the best mini flat irons, Iman’s knowledge knows no bounds. However, it is in the realm of laser hair removal where she truly excels. Countless hours of in-depth research and personal experimentation have made her an authority in this field, allowing her to provide valuable insights and recommendations on various studios and services.

Iman Balagam, an experienced freelance writer, has immersed herself in the beauty industry for close to five years. Throughout her impressive career, she has been actively involved in numerous prestigious women’s magazines and esteemed digital platforms like Harper’s BAZAAR, Allure, Byrdie, and Elle, among others. With a curious mind and an unquenchable thirst for innovation, she fearlessly explores almost every available avenue. Living in a cozy New York apartment, she constantly seeks innovative storage solutions for her vast array of beauty products.