Acne is a frequent skin irregularity that countless of people are affected from today. Acne is aggravated when the pores get clogged with excessive secretion of oil from glands and dead skin cells. The forehead is one of the most common places to get acne breakouts. That area of the face is a prominent spot that tends to get oily and shiny. Acne on forehead usually appears as a blackhead or whitehead because the pores lay open to the air.

Forehead acne appears in the early growth years and becomes severe when in teen years. Acne perils usually end by the mid or late twenties but people who are affected from other underlying causes can have acne problems (including forehead acne) even when they are forty or above.

Causes

Acne is caused by overactive sebaceous glands that produce an excess of a substance called sebum. Sebum production is regulated by androgens (sex hormones), for example testosterone. Too much testosterone leads to an overproduction of sebum. The sebum clogs pores, causing blackheads. Blackheads are a breeding ground for Propionibacterium acnes, the bacterium that causes pimples.

Acne breakouts can occur almost anywhere on the body. The forehead is one of the more common places. There are other contributing factors, such as hair oils and hair products. These can worsen the blocked pores.

Forehead Acne Treatment

It is important to keep the forehead skin clean by washing your face twice a day with a Face Wash containing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid promotes the excretion of dead skin cells that would otherwise block the pores, causing whiteheads and/or blackheads. If you have sensitive skin, use face wash once a day to prevent over-drying.

Exfoliation is essential to keep the pores clean and smooth skin. You can use a gentle face scrub, or a little scrubbing sponge specifically designed for exfoliation. If you have sensitive skin, do not exfoliate more than three times a week. Otherwise, you can do it daily in the shower.

There are many medicines acne lotions that can be bought over the counter without prescription. Find one that contains benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that cause bad forehead acne. It can bleach some fabrics, so make sure it is fully absorbed into the skin before getting dressed.

If you have bad forehead acne, or if you have forehead acne scars, the standard of non-prescription medicines can not be enough. You may want to see a dermatologist who will prescribe antibiotics to kill the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. There are current and stronger oral antibiotics of such. They are very effective, but may also have unwanted side effects. Some people experience severe allergic reactions including rash and fever.