Causes of Acne on Chin & Neck
When you suffer from a breakout of acne, it can feel like the end of the world, especially when you're a teenager. But acne can occur at any time of life for a variety of reasons. Some areas that cause particular trouble are the chin and neck. However, with an evaluation by your dermatologist, the cause of your acne can be determined and the appropriate treatment prescribed. Does this Spark an idea?
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Hormones
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Hormones are one of the largest causes of acne, especially on the chin and neck. These hormones surge at the time of puberty and can cause excess oil on the skin since the oil glands tend to enlarge and lead to acne. However, teens aren't the only ones subject to hormonal acne. Women of all ages suffer from acne, since their hormones are always fluctuating due to their menstrual cycle. Often times, women go on birth control pills to help control acne until menopause.
Irritating Clothing
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Irritating clothing can be another cause of acne on the chin and neck. Some fabrics may be scratchy or cause an allergic reaction to your skin, leading to breakouts. Wool is a well-known culprit. However, any fabric can be an irritant if pressed against the skin for an extended period of time, such as that of a turtle neck or sweater.
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Helmets, Head Straps and Gear
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Sometimes, it's your profession or hobby that's at the root of your chin and neck acne. The pressure from helmets, headbands or chin straps can cause acne breakouts in those that take part in sports. Tight uniforms can chafe and cause acne on the body as can the straps of a backpack. Violinists often suffer from chin acne as well due to the pressure from the chin cup--a condition often referred to as fiddler's neck.
Leaning on Your Hands
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Another cause of chin and neck acne is rather simple. It merely involves leaning on your hands all the time. It may be a passive activity, one that you do without thinking while reading, watching TV or studying. However, leaning on your hands introduces harmful bacteria into your skin, leading to new blemishes or irritating current ones. Your best bet is to stop this habit to allow the area to heal.
Over-Productive Oil Glands
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Sometimes, acne on the chin and neck is simply caused by over-active oil glands. Also known as sebaceous glands, these glands produce oil and combine with dead skin cells to create sebum. This material is what clogs up pores. And when combined with bacteria, acne forms. The chin is filled with oil glands, making it a prime target of acne breakouts at any time of life.
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