Pimples occur when pores are blocked by excess oil and dead skin cells. Often found on the chin, these plugs form from globs of skin and oil that prevent dead skin cells from flaking off.
Sometimes, bacteria that lives naturally on your skin get trapped behind these plugs. As the bacteria grow inside your pore, they cause the redness and inflammation that’s typical in pimples. Depending on the amount of inflammation and bacteria, your pimple may develop a whitehead or become cystic.
If you’ve heard about face mapping, then you may know that pimples on certain areas of your face may have different causes. Research suggests that acne on your chin and jawline is often
Hormones called androgens stimulate the production of sebum, which is the oil responsible for clogging pores. Acne is very common among teenagers because hormone production increases during this time. But hormone levels fluctuate throughout adulthood.
Chin or jawline acne may fluctuate with your monthly periods. Some women produce more androgens than others. Increased androgen production can be the result of a condition like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Sometimes what looks like acne is actually something else. If you have many small pimples on your chin and face, it could be rosacea. Rosacea is common and causes redness and visible blood vessels. People often experience breakouts of pus-filled bumps that look like pimples.
Another cause of chin pimples is ingrown hairs. While they’re more common among men who shave, ingrown hairs can happen to anyone. An ingrown hair happens when a strand of hair grows back into your skin, causing redness and inflammation. An ingrown hair may develop a pimplelike pustule and become tender or itchy.
There are many acne treatment options to choose from. Not all treatments work for everyone but most pimples can be eliminated with a little work. Mild cases of small pimples or pustules can typically be treated with over-the-counter acne creams.
Products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid usually help dry up pimples within a few days or weeks.
More stubborn cases of acne require help from a dermatologist. Depending on the type and severity of your acne, your dermatologist may recommend one or more of the following treatment options:
Treating acne successfully also means knowing what to avoid. There are many practices that might feel right but could actually make your acne worse. Here are a few tips:
Rosacea and ingrown hairs can also benefit from these skin care tips. Rosacea treatment primarily focuses on reducing redness through topical treatments and sometimes requires medication. See your doctor to talk through the right routine for you.
You can reduce your risk of breakouts by performing some basic preventive care.
Chin pimples are a very common problem with many treatment options available. Make an appointment with your dermatologist to find out what acne treatments may work best for you.