Chin acne flare-ups
Why do we get acne breakouts on our chin?
One of the most frustrating types of acne is chin acne. So, what’s behind those stubborn breakouts around your chin, and how can you tackle them effectively? We spoke with hub.health, opens in a new tab’s Dr Cedric Ng Liet Hing to take an 'unblemished' look.
What is chin acne?
“Chin acne” is simply pimples that show up on the lower part of your face, like around your chin and jawline. While they’re not different from pimples you get elsewhere like your back or forehead, they’re often linked to hormonal changes.
Dr Cedric explains, “Chin acne is common because this area has more oil-producing glands. That extra oil can lead to clogged pores, which is a big reason why acne forms.”
“Acne on your chin often consists of deeper, cystic lesions. These are large, inflamed, and painful bumps that develop under the skin, as opposed to surface-level whiteheads or blackheads that are more common in other facial areas.”
Causes of chin acne
If only there were one simple cause – and solution – for chin acne! Unfortunately, it’s not that straightforward. “Dermatologists agree there's no single trigger for breakouts in specific areas,” explains Dr Cedric. “With so many factors involved, it can be tough to pinpoint the exact cause of your acne flare-up.”
However, certain factors might play a bigger role than others.
For instance, hormonal fluctuations at different life stages, like during puberty, pregnancy, or around your menstrual cycle, can lead to increased oil and sebum production, causing chin acne to worsen. Stressful periods can also trigger breakouts.
“When hormone levels spike, so does oil production in the skin, leading to more spots,” says Dr Cedric. “This is why you might notice more acne around your chin during your menstrual cycle or pregnancy, or if you’re going through perimenopause.”
Certain skincare habits that we’re not even aware of can also contribute to chin acne. Dr Cedric points out that touching your face frequently, using comedogenic products, over-washing or under-washing your face, and using irritating skincare products can all worsen breakouts.
“If you’re often holding your phone to your face or touching your face, you might be transferring oil, dirt, and bacteria, which can lead to chin acne,” he explains.
Instead of using heavy makeup or rich creams (especially those with oil or petroleum), look for non-comedogenic products, which won’t clog your pores.
How to prevent chin acne
There are some factors we can’t control when it comes to preventing chin acne, like the weather. "Excessive sweating from humidity or exposure to pollutants can clog pores and worsen chin acne," explains Dr Cedric. "But don't worry, there’s plenty you can do to keep breakouts in check."
"The good news is that lifestyle changes can make a real difference," says Dr Cedric. "By focusing on a balanced diet, managing stress, and making sure you're getting enough sleep, you can help prevent chin acne flare-ups. These factors are key to keeping your skin healthier and reducing the chances of breakouts."
Chin acne treatments
There’s no magic skincare routine that targets chin acne specifically, but having a well-rounded skincare regimen can do wonders for your overall skin health.
"Instead of using heavy makeup or rich creams (especially those with oil or petroleum), look for non-comedogenic products, which won’t clog your pores," says Dr Cedric. "Avoid harsh alcohol-based cleansers that strip your skin’s natural oils and steer clear of synthetic fragrances that can irritate and inflame your skin."
Healthcare professionals can help you find the right products based on your skin type and overall health. So, even if it’s tempting to handle that breakout on your own, trust the pros to guide you toward the best solution.
Over-the-counter acne treatments
If you're looking for a more targeted treatment, over-the-counter options could be the next step. Before buying anything, it's a smart idea to talk with a pharmacist – they can guide you toward the best product for your skin. Look for topical treatments with ingredients like:
Benzoyl peroxide
Azelaic acid
Salicylic acid
Glycolic acid
Topical retinoids
Topical antibiotics
nib partners, hub.health,, opens in a new tab are here to help you on that journey with access to dermatologist-developed solutions for prescription acne treatment, and fast, easy and convenient access treatments delivered to your door. Find out more about hub.health acne treatment options, opens in a new tab.
Sometimes these treatments can cause mild irritation. If that happens, take a break for a few days and try again. If the irritation sticks around, stop using it and talk to your healthcare professional about alternatives.
Professional acne treatments
It’s time to see your doctor if your acne isn’t improving with over-the-counter treatments or if you have more severe forms of acne. They can assess your acne, check for any scarring, and prescribe medical treatments tailored to your needs. These treatments, opens in a new tab can be either topical or oral and can include:
Retinoids: to unblock pores and prevent new blockages
Antibiotics: to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation
Hormonal agents: like the contraceptive pill to manage hormones and lower oil secretion.
If these treatments don’t work your doctor might refer you to a dermatologist, who may prescribe a medication like isotretinoin, opens in a new tab. This is an oral prescription medication used for treating severe cystic acne that hasn't responded to other treatments. Consider potential side effects with your doctor before starting any treatment.
Remember, the journey to clear skin requires patience and persistence, no matter which treatment method you use. Start your journey to clearer skin with a consultation through our partner, hub.health, opens in a new tab.
Please note: The tips throughout this article serve as broad information and should not replace any advice you have been given by your medical practitioner.
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