Cheek Acne: Causes and ways to reduce them

We know that pimples on the jawline and chin are due to hormones, and stress can lead to breakouts on the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). But what about those annoying pimples on our cheeks? Even though all pimples come from pores getting clogged with too much oil, dirt, and dead skin, where they appear can give us clues about why it's happening.

Cheek pimples might be caused by family traits or using dirty makeup brushes.The good news is, when it comes to cheek pimples, there are things we can change in our daily lives to help our skin.

Before that, let's see what further to expect:-

• What is Cheek Acne?
• What are the causes of Cheek Acne?
• What are the ways to reduce Cheek Acne?
• Take Aways
• FAQs

What is Cheek Acne?

Cheek acne refers to breakouts that happen in the area below your eye and between your mouth and ear. Experts note that inflammatory acne, which includes papules, pustules, nodules, and cystic acne, tends to be more common on the cheeks compared to non-inflammatory acne such as blackheads and whiteheads.

What are the causes of Cheek Acne?

Dirty Pillowcases & Sheets

Dirty pillows can cause cheek acne because they collect oil, sweat, and bacteria. When you lay your face on a dirty pillow, these things can get on your skin and block your pores, leading to acne on your cheeks. Keeping your pillowcases clean and maintaining good hygiene can help prevent this.

Touching Your Face

Hands gather lots of gross stuff throughout the day, from keyboards to kitchen sponges to smartphones. Increased contact with your face leads to a buildup of bacteria, dirt, and allergens. Between washes, they get a chance to seep into your skin, possibly clogging your pores and causing breakouts.

Poor Skincare

Some people overdo it by scrubbing their cheek acne too hard. Big mistake! Your facial skin is super sensitive, so it needs gentle care. Your skincare products might also be a problem if they contain harsh ingredients like alcohol and synthetic fragrances, irritating your skin or blocking your pores.

What are the ways to reduce Cheek Acne?

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid reduces cheek acne by unclogging pores, exfoliating dead skin cells, and controlling oil production. Its anti-inflammatory properties minimise redness and swelling while treating and preventing new pimples.

Regular use in skincare helps maintain clear pores, providing an effective solution for individuals with acne-prone skin.

Retinol

Retinol because of its capacity to enhance skin cell turnover and prevent pore blockages, retinol is useful for treating cheek acne. Retinol, a kind of vitamin A, aids in the unclogging of pores, decreases inflammation, and promotes the shedding of dead skin cells.

This procedure leads to smoother skin texture and fewer outbreaks, as well as the treatment of acne-related disorders such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. However, it is critical to begin with a lesser dose and gradually increase usage to avoid discomfort.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is effective for treating forehead acne. It regulates sebum production, reduces inflammation, and minimizes pore size. Additionally, niacinamide addresses post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, promoting an even skin tone.

Look for skincare products like serums or moisturizers containing niacinamide and start gradually to ensure skin tolerance. For persistent concerns, consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice is advisable.

Azelaic acid

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Azelaic acid is particularly effective for managing cheek acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling associated with acne lesions. The acid unclogs pores, preventing the formation of pimples, and its antibacterial action helps target acne-causing bacteria.

Azelaic acid also addresses post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, promoting a clearer and more even skin tone on the cheeks. Begin with a lower concentration in your skincare routine and consult with a dermatologist for personalised guidance on treating cheek acne.

Take Away

Dealing with cheek acne can be bothersome, but fortunately, there are solutions to prevent recurring breakouts. Maintaining cleanliness for your bedding, cell phone, and hands is crucial to avoid the spread of dirt, bacteria, and excess oil into your cheek pores. Additionally, opting for non-comedogenic cosmetic products is a simple adjustment to incorporate into your daily routine.

P.S.:- If you are looking for that one magic home remedy to apply then opt for tea tree oil which is packed with antibacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties. This way it helps in reducing cheek acne as well.

FAQs