Recurring Face Acne is a common skin issue that we have all had to deal with at some point or another, for some of us it isn’t a big deal, and for some it is a major issue. Acne comes in many forms and has so many different triggers that it can be difficult to find a solution.
This post will look at one common type known as recurring face acne, and that is acne that occurs around the same spot time and time again. In case you or someone you know have experienced this, stay tuned, you might discover one or two helpful tips as we look at how to prevent and clear up recurring acne based on external, measurable lifestyle factors.
Near your edges or hairline
Also known as Pomade Acne, this is one type of recurring face acne that is common to women, especially hair care enthusiasts. A lot of hair products contain mineral oils and other ingredients that block the sebum and natural oils in our hair follicles from exiting, which is what creates those hairline pimples.
If this is you, try these tips for some relief;
- Use a clarifying shampoo to wash your hair and try to do so every other week.
- Wash your face after applying hair products to remove any excess product.
- When using spray products, shield your face with a washcloth of face shield like the ones used in salons
- Pay attention to the ingredient list on your hair products, ensuring that they are natural and preferably non-comedogenic
Cheek Acne
Probably the most common type of facial acne, we have all had to deal with this at some point or the other. What most of us do not realise is that our phones are a major factor to this. Research has shown that disturbing amounts of dirt and bacteria are found on our phone screens and key pads, and if you think of the way we drop our phones on tables, chairs, inside bags, the floor, all sorts of surfaces, touch them with unwashed hands, we really should not be letting them touch our faces so many times each day; but we do. And anytime you hold your phone to your face, you’re spreading that bacteria to your skin, potentially causing more acne.
Persistent acne on one side of your faces tends to be due to dirty phones, and other causes are dirty pillowcases, and other habits like touching your face with unwashed hands. What to do?
- Clean your phone regularly with a disinfectant wipe, or just a clean cloth or tissue.
- If you’re on the phone frequently for work, consider purchasing a Bluetooth headset
- Change your pillowcases at least once a week
- Avoid leaving your phone on dirty surfaces and unsanitary environments like toilets
Acne on your Jawline
A major cause of this is hormonal fluctuations which are caused by disruptions in the endocrine system. Usually caused by excess androgens which overstimulate the oil glands and clog pores. Hormones can surge during a menstrual cycle (some days before your period) or may be due to a switch or start with birth control medications. Another major factor is diet, especially with high carbohydrate based and processed foods. Check your diet and see if reducing your sugar, white bread, rice, ad dairy intake help a bit. Try eliminating each one for a few weeks and see how your skin responds. A visit to the Dermatologist is also a good call as you will be given a specific diagnosis and treatment routine from a professional.
T-Zone Recurring Face Acne
If this type of recurring face acne sounds familiar, oil and stress are the culprit. Studies have shown that lack of sleep or haphazard sleep patterns are related to acne. If you have noticed this, try some relaxation techniques like listening to soothing music, meditation or reducing phone/TV usage before bedtime to help improve your sleep quality so that you can wake up refreshed daily. Listening to music or exercising (even for one minute) are also natural ways to relieve stress. It also helps to avoid touching your forehead during the day. And definitely wash your face each night before bed. A soap made for oily facial skin like our Charcoal Face Soap, is great for this!