Typically, breakouts on the forehead are caused by hormones, stress, and irritation of your skin or hair. Rosacea, for example, can cause similar symptoms to acne.
Papules are solid, red bumps that appear on the forehead. Some bubbles may have pus on top. These are known as pustules.
It doesn’t matter where acne appears; you should treat it correctly. Use over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medication to clear the pimples quickly. You can avoid scarring by not picking up your acne.
What causes acne on the forehead?
The cause of acne is the same, no matter where it appears on your face. Sebum is the oil that generally protects and lubricates your skin. Sebum is made by tiny glands that produce oil called sebaceous. Small pores allow oil to reach the skin’s surface.
Pores can become clogged by dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Bacteria grow inside, creating swollen bumps. These bumps are called pimples.
Puberty
Acne is common in adolescents. Acne is caused by increased oil production due to a surge in hormones. These early breakouts are most commonly found on the forehead.
Hair and hair care products
Hair can also cause forehead acne. You can get forehead acne if you don’t shampoo your hair enough or if your hair is oily.
You may also have breakouts due to your hair products. Acne is often caused by hair styling and straightening product.
They often contain cocoa butter and coconut oil. These products can make your skin oily. Hair products cause pomade acne.
Clothing or makeup irritation
Face acne can be caused by irritation from clothing or chemicals in makeup. This is especially true if you have sensitive skin. If you use a new makeup brand or wear a headband or hat that irritates the skin, you may experience a breakout.
Acne can be caused by excessively touching your face. Your fingers can deposit bacteria and oil onto your skin.
Prescription Treatment
For more severe acne, see a dermatologist. If you do not have a dermatologist, the Healthline FindCare Tool will provide options in your locality. You may need prescription-strength acne treatment, such as:
Antibiotics.
Benzoyl peroxide formulation.
Retinoids.
Birth Control Pills (for Women).
Anti-androgen agent.
Creams are available for antibiotics and retinoids. They are also available in pill form.
You can also ask your doctor about non-drug acne treatments, like lasers or chemical peels. Some larger pimples will need to be drained.
Can you pop a pimple that appears on your forehead without risk?
Never pop a pimple anywhere on your body or face. Picking acne can introduce dirt into your skin. This can cause an infection. It will take longer for a spot to heal if you pop it. It can also cause a permanent mark.
What are some other causes of forehead breakouts?
Other conditions can cause bumps on the forehead.
Boils are painful, red lumps that develop from infected hair follicles.
Cellulitis occurs around a wound or scrape.
Dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to products you touch or use, like laundry detergent.
Folliculitis is an infection in the hair follicle.
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin.
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin disorder resulting in facial redness and acne.
Prevention Tips
Use these tips to help prevent acne on the forehead and other face areas.
Use a mild cleanser to wash your face twice daily. Rinse your face with warm water, and pat it dry gently. Don’t scrub. Rub gently.
Wash your hair frequently. Use a shampoo labeled for oily hair if your hair is greasy.
Avoid using oil or pomade on your hair. You can use oils or pomades on your hair, but you should wipe them off with a wet washcloth afterward.
Use a hair tie or a cut to remove your bangs from your face. Cracks may cause acne on your forehead if they are oily.
Avoid wearing headbands and hats whose brims touch your forehead.
Keep your hands off your skin. You can introduce bacteria into your pores each time you touch the skin. If you must connect your forehead, wash your hands before doing so.
Makeup, cleansers, and other products labeled as “non-comedogenic” won’t cause acne. Avoid products that irritate your skin, such as cleansers containing alcohol.
What is acne?
Acne, a common skin condition characterized by inflammation and pimples, is caused by hormonal changes. It often occurs in people going through hormonal changes like puberty and pregnancy.
Pores are tiny holes in your skin. Oil glands are located on top of the pores. The glands produce sebum which travels from them to your pores through follicles.
Dead skin, dirt, and sebum can clog follicles, causing swelling or a blocked pore. A pimple may form when the pore begins to unclog by itself.
How to treat temple acne
Acne is usually treated with time and self-control. Acne can be made worse by touching it. You can spread bacteria and oils on your hands, which may cause acne.
Avoid using hair, face products, or headwear if you usually do. Use warm water with a mild cleanser on your face to gently remove dead skin, excess oils, and impurities. Do not scrub or use extreme pressure.
Do not pick at your pimples. It can cause scarring and spread bacteria. Try over-the-counter products that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acids, or alpha hydroxy acids.
Make an appointment with your dermatologist or doctor if your acne does not go away or worsens.
Other Skin Conditions
You may be mistaken if you think the bumps and red marks on your skin are acne. They could be other skin conditions. These include:
Keratosis Pilaris. The bumps may be accompanied by dry, rough skin. This is a prevalent skin condition that doesn’t usually require any treatment.
Dermatitis. Dermatitis is characterized by many small pimples which look like a rash. It usually occurs around the lips but can also occur around the eyes and spread to the forehead or temple area. Untreated, the acne can persist for an extended period.
Rosacea. Your acne may be accompanied by general skin redness and sensitivity to touch. You could have. Rosacea is managed by ongoing treatment. You should consult a dermatologist if you suspect you have rosacea.
