Forehead acne develops when hair follicles and sebaceous glands, which produce an oily substance called sebum, become blocked by excess sebum or other debris such as bacteria and dead skin cells. This can be due to causes that include stress, hormonal change, medications, or skin irritation from hats or hair care products.12

The forehead is part of what dermatologists refer to as the T-zone, which also includes the nose and chin.3 While acne can develop anywhere, it’s especially common on the face and shoulders. There are ways to get rid of forehead acne and prevent it in the future.

Teenage girl with forehead acne
MihailUlianikov / Getty Images


Causes
Forehead acne occurs because of the same underlying causes as elsewhere on the body. Common types of acne (also called acne vulgaris) include whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. Painful cysts can develop if acne occurs deep in the skin.

Factors that increase the likelihood of acne and pimples developing include:

Hormonal changes: An increase in androgen sex hormones often causes the sebaceous glands (oil glands) to enlarge and produce more oil, which leads to acne.2 
Medication: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, may lead to acne as a side effect.1 Acne may also arise in people using hormonal birth control.
Vitamin deficiencies: Some studies find lower vitamin D levels in people with acne, but more research is needed to better understand its role. Other studies note the role of vitamin A and B vitamins in skin health.
Hair products: If you tend to break out along your hairline, oily hair care products may be the culprit. The type of acne caused by cosmetic products is known as acne cosmetica. If possible, avoid oily products like pomade, as well as potentially irritating shampoos and conditioners. It’s also important to wash your skin and hair regularly, as well as any household items that your hair care products touched (such as pillowcases and bedsheets).
Skin irritation: Forehead acne is often caused by skin irritation or trapped sweat. This may be due to cosmetic products, such as makeup, or tight clothing and accessories, such as hats, face masks, visors, or headbands.
Skin type: Some people have larger pores and/or excess oil production in the T-zone area of the skin, which includes the forehead.
 
Is Forehead Acne a Stress Acne?

The relationship between acne and stress hasn't been well-studied, but one small study of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic found that stress (among other factors) was associated with an increase in acne, including forehead acne.

Hormonal Acne
An increase in androgen levels is a frequent cause of acne.12 You may be experiencing hormonal acne breakouts if you notice more forehead acne during:

Puberty 
Perimenopause
Menopause
Pregnancy
Periods 
Hormonal acne may also be related to specific conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).12 It can also crop up when you start to take hormonal birth control.


Treatment
Forehead acne treatment options include home remedies and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines as well as prescription medications. 

Home remedies that can remove forehead pimples include:

Aloe vera: Studies have found that aloe vera gel can help with moderate acne, especially inflammatory acne.
Tea tree oil: Recent research indicates that products containing tea tree oil, such as tea tree oil gel, can treat mild to moderate acne.
Zinc: There’s some evidence that people with acne have lower levels of zinc in their blood. Zinc supplements and/or topical zinc may help to relieve symptoms.
There are many OTC acne relief products on the market, from topical creams and ointments to face wash and masks. Look for products that contain one or more of the following ingredients:

Benzoyl peroxide
Salicylic acid
Azelaic acid
Adapalene
If your acne is persistent, severe, deep, or painful, you might need to see a healthcare provider. Your dermatologist may recommend one of the following prescription treatments:

Topical antibiotics
Oral antibiotics, although these are used carefully to avoid antibiotic resistance
Hormonal therapy, such as spironolactone or birth control pills
Laser or light therapy
Chemical peels

 
Prevention
There are many self-care tips you can follow to prevent forehead acne from developing or getting worse. Take the following steps to protect and care for your skin:

Refrain from touching, leaning on, picking at, or rubbing your face excessively.
Cleanse your skin thoroughly with a mild face wash at least once a day. However, don’t over-wash your skin or exfoliate it too often.
Wash your hair regularly.
Remove all of your makeup every night.
Don’t wear tight hats or hair accessories, especially while you work out.
Steer clear of hair care products that contain a lot of oil. Look for skin and hair care products with labels containing phrases such as non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic, water-based, won’t clog pores, or oil-free.

 
Summary
Forehead acne has many potential causes, including pore-clogging hair products and skin irritation from hats or makeup. Stress, hormonal changes, and certain medications also can contribute to forehead acne.

Home remedies and OTC treatments can resolve many cases of mild to moderate acne. If your acne is affecting your overall well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dermatologist. There are effective treatment options available even for severe cases of chronic (long-term) acne.

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Forehead Acne and What to Do About It
Forehead Acne and What to Do About It
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