Forehead is one of the most common areas where acne can breakout and pimples appear and is a common problem. According to Chinese medicine, forehead acne is related to digestive disorders. But there are also other causes that trigger forehead acne.
What Causes Pimples?
Pimples are an inflammation of the skin in which the sebaceous glands (oil glands) become infected with bacteria, swell up, and fill with pus. The bacteria that cause pimples are called Propionibacterium acnes. These bacteria live on your skin all the time. They become a problem only when a pore becomes blocked. This happens when excess oil or sebum mixes with dead skin cells to form a “plug.” The bacteria build up in the oil inside the blocked pore. The body responds by sending cells to kill the bacteria, causing the pore and surrounding skin to swell and creating the little red bumps with white centers known as pimples.
Causes and Prevention of Forehead Pimples
The main reasons that trigger forehead pimples are given below:
Clogged Pores: This is the prime cause for acne trigger and pimple development anywhere. The forehead lies in the “T-zone”, the most oil producing area, resulting into the pores located on the forehead to get clogged more likely – leading to acne trigger.
Prevention: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you can’t completely control oil production, but you can take steps to reduce the risk of clogged pores and end up with cleaner, clearer skin.
Oily Scalp: An oily scalp tends to dribble oil on the forehead that can cause clogged pores and thus pimples can occur on your forehead.
Prevention: Make sure you wash your hair on alternate days to ensure an oil-free scalp.
Certain Medications: Some medications, such as birth control pills, have a tendency to cause pimples or acne on the forehead for some people.
Prevention: Consult/question your doctor every time he prescribes you any medication relating to hormonal issues.
Hair Dandruff: Hair Dandruff is also a prime cause for acne and pimples on forehead.
Prevention: Try to get rid of the dandruff using a good anti-dandruff shampoo.
Unbalanced Diet And Digestive Issues: Poor digestion can be another probable cause for forehead pimples
Prevention: Drink lots of water and include green, leafy vegetables and fruits in your diet. Avoid fried and processed foods.
Over Exfoliation: Although exfoliation aids in getting rid of dead skin cells and rejuvenates your skin, too much of it can lead to skin irritation and triggering of acne.
Prevention: Doing exfoliation is a good skin care routine, but do not do it more than twice a week.
Hormonal Issues and Genetic Reasons: The hormonal and genetic factors can also cause forehead pimples and acne.
Prevention: Genetic factors are most difficult to treat. The hormonal problems can be resolved with the help of your doctor.
Natural Remedies For Forehead Pimples
Clay Mask With Tea Tree Oil
Clay mask with tea tree oil is effective in treating acne.
Directions: Make a thin clay mask with water. Add tea tree oil for a boost, and apply the mask on your forehead. Leave the mask on overnight and rinse it off when you wake up.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a powerhouse when it comes to acting as an acne remedy. It also balances the pH of your skin, which in turn makes it harder for bacteria to thrive.
Directions: You need to swab a bit of the apple cider vinegar once or twice a day onto the affected area. Remember, it is best not to rinse the apple cider vinegar, unless you really feel you should.
Lemon Juice
An astringent, like lemon juice, and will help dry up excess oil. Keeping that in mind, don’t overdo and dry out your skin too much.
Directions: Dab a few drops of lemon on the zits and leave it on overnight.
Tomato Mask
Rich in antioxidants, tomato juice is known to have acne-healing properties.
Directions: Dilute the juice and use it twice a day. Bear in mind that excessive use can cause dryness.