Jawline acne isn’t a typical spot for teen acne along the usual T-zone, an acne field that reaches across your forehead and down the central axis of your face. However, the jaw and chin are routinely involved in cases of adult acne, which often has a hormonal origin.
Unlike the blackheads and whiteheads that form in the central region of your face, jawline acne is more likely populated by cystic blemishes that tend to resist traditional acne medications. Visit dermatologist Jennifer Baron MD when jawline acne pops up on your face.
The functional cause of acne is blocked hair follicles, which are filled with sebum and shed skin cells. This causes inflammation and is a breeding ground for bacteria. However, there are also underlying reasons why acne affects some people and not others.
In the case of jawline acne, hormones play a unique role. The jaw and chin aren’t places where oily sebum collects, and the frequent appearance of acne in these locations during menstruation suggests that changes in hormonal balance have an influence. Polycystic ovary syndrome is another hormonal disorder associated with jawline acne.
There’s also a form called acne mechanica, where clothing or sports equipment create a barrier that traps heat and moisture while irritating the skin. It’s common in sports that use helmets with chin straps. Acne mechanica usually starts with small bumps before turning into deep cysts.
When there are hormonal contributors to your jawline acne, hormonal therapy may be a solution, particularly for women with adult acne, which often responds poorly to remedies typically used for teen acne.
Oral contraceptives may be effective at clearing up jawline acne. A medication used to treat high blood pressure called spironolactone often helps with deep-seated acne around the chin, jaw, and neck. The effects of these treatments aren’t suitable for all patients, so discuss these in depth with Dr. Baron.
If you use equipment or clothing that might contribute to acne mechanica, try to find alternate styles or ways of using equipment that don’t compromise their protective value. Moisture-wicking fabrics could prove helpful.
Replace dirty or worn straps and add clean, absorbent padding in problem areas. Salicylic acid-based acne products may be effective against acne mechanica.
Cleansing skin with active acne outbreaks should be done with lukewarm water and scrubbing only with your fingertips, rather than rough washcloths or scrub pads. Use a mild soap morning and night, and after vigorous activity.
When you can’t get the upper hand on cystic jawline acne, contact Jennifer Baron MD in San Jose, California. Call our office directly at 408-418-8780 or request an appointment online today.
