Chin acne flare-ups
One of the most frustrating types of breakouts is the stubborn chin flare-up. You know the ones: they're deep, painful and always seem to arrive exactly when you have something important on. Unlike a little whitehead that pops up and disappears with the help of a good cleanse and a pimple patch, chin acne can feel like it's moved in and is living rent-free under your skin.
We spoke with hub. health's Dr Cedric Ng Liet Hing to separate the skincare facts from the TikTok fiction and find out why your jawline is breaking out and importantly, how to evict those uninvited guests.
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 aren't technically different from the spots on your back or forehead, they’re often linked to hormonal changes and have a reputation for being more painful.
“Acne on your chin often consists of deeper, cystic lesions," Dr Cedric explains. "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.”
Dr Cedric says that 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," he says.
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, there are a few likely culprits:
Hormones: hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy,, around your menstrual cycle or perimenopause can lead to increased oil and sebum production, causing chin acne to worsen.
Stress: High-stress periods trigger cortisol, which can lead to a fresh family of chin spots
Unsuitable products: using comedogenic products, over-washing or under-washing your face, and using irritating skincare products can all worsen breakouts.
Touching your face: We're all guilty of it. Frequently touching your face or holding a bacteria-covered phone against your jawline can transfer dirt and oil directly into your pores.
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
Some triggers are hard to avoid, as Dr Cedric explains, "sweating and environmental exposure can clog pores and make chin acne worse." The good news is there are simple things you can do to stay on top of it.
Dr Cedric suggests starting with your everyday habits. "A balanced diet, good sleep and managing stress can all help keep your skin clearer. These are small changes, but they add up and can reduce how often breakouts show up."
What you eat can also make a difference. Recent research from the University of Sydney shows foods that cause quick spikes in blood sugar, like white bread, sugary snacks and processed cereals, may increase oil production and contribute to breakouts. Some people also find dairy can trigger chin acne, so it may be worth paying attention to how your skin reacts or keeping a journal if you're concerned your diet could be causing breakouts.
How to treat chin acne
Finding the right skincare routine
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
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 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. 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.
It's also worth noting that certain conditions, such as perioral dermatitis, can mimic the symptoms of chin acne. If you're unsure about the difference or if the treatments you're using aren't helping, it could be helpful to chat to a doctor.
Remember, healing doesn't happen overnight, but with a bit of patience, you can start to get those flare-ups under control. Our partners at hub.health are here to help you access dermatologist-developed solutions and prescription treatments delivered straight to your door, if recommended by a doctor^. Set up a consultation through hub.health and start your journey to clearer skin today.
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.
^The provision of treatments is not guaranteed. It will be based on the information you provide during your consultation and whether the medical doctor or nurse practitioner deems it to be appropriate for the care of your individual health needs. Please note that treatments which have a high potential for misuse, abuse or addiction - cannot be recommended via telehealth. hub.health is owned and operated by Midnight Health Pty Ltd, of which nib Group is a majority shareholder.