What Causes Jawline Acne
When hair follicles become clogged, acne develops. Acne on the jawline can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetics, medical conditions, and certain medications.You might be able to use over-the-counter medications to treat acne on your jawline. But in more serious situations,
Medication may be prescribed by your physician. It may take a few weeks to see results, depending on the acne’s severity and the type of treatment used.The causes and risk factors for jawline acne are covered in greater detail in this article. In addition, it covers topics like treatment opinions, when to call a doctor, and more.
What leads to acne on the jawline? – Naturally occurring oils produced by the sebaceous glands lubricate your skin. Through the pores of the hair follicles, the sebaceous glands transport these oils to the skin’s surface. These pores can become clogged by dead skin cells, hair, and excess dirt.
Why clogged follicles show up along the jawline
Each hair follicle has an opening at the skin’s surface. Oil normally travels through that opening, but it can mix with dead skin cells and form a plug. A closed plug can appear as a whitehead. If the opening stays exposed, the plug can darken and form a blackhead. When inflammation develops around a clogged follicle, the spot may become red, raised, or sore. These changes can occur anywhere on the face, including around the chin and along the jaw.
Hormones can influence how much oil the skin makes. During puberty, for example, rising levels of certain hormones can cause the oil glands to make more oil. Some adults also notice breakouts around the time of their period. Family history can affect the likelihood of developing acne, including deeper breakouts. The location of a breakout alone cannot tell you whether hormones, a product, or another factor is involved.
What can make breakouts worse
Check what regularly touches the area. A hair product that gets onto the skin, oily makeup, or a product applied along the jaw may contribute to clogged pores. Pressure and rubbing from a snug chin strap or other gear can also aggravate acne where it touches the skin. A product labeled noncomedogenic is formulated to be less likely to clog pores. If breakouts started after a change in your routine, noting when and where the spots appear can help you discuss possible triggers with a clinician.
Some medicines can contribute to acne or acne-like breakouts. If spots appeared after starting a prescription or changing the dose, ask the prescribing clinician whether there could be a connection. A similar-looking bump can have a different cause, especially if it is a single lump that keeps growing. A clinician can examine it and distinguish acne from other skin conditions.
When to get help
Gentle skin care can help limit irritation. Avoid scrubbing the jawline or squeezing spots, since picking can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring. Over-the-counter acne products can take several weeks to show an effect. A dermatologist can help if the spots are deep or painful, leave scars, or keep returning despite consistent care. The appearance and severity of the spots help guide which treatments make sense.
Further reading from the American Academy of Dermatology.