Acne Around the Chin

Chin acne can occur at any age, and treatment includes over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Acne can occur at any age, but mainly affects teenagers and adults. Commonly called pimples, acne occurs as blemishes, pustules or papules.

Chin acne involves the same process as acne on other parts of the body. Some personal habits can worsen acne on the chin and body, and treatments range from over-the-counter solutions to dermatological assistance.

Appearance

Acne on the chin is often raised and red. Whiteheads may have white tips, while blackheads look yellow or black. Pustules or cysts may look like lumps, according to Livestrong.com.

Types of Chin Acne

Minor inflammation near the skin's surface is a comedo. Comedos are more commonly known as blackheads or whiteheads. If a comedo is infected by bacteria, a pustule or pimple with pus will form. Pustules are slightly deeper in the skin than comedos. Very deep or painful chin acne is probably a cyst or nodule, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Causes

The exact cause of chin acne is unknown, but genetics may play a role, the AAD stated.

Other causes may be related to stress or hormonal changes, according to Acne Talks. In adolescence, the body's hormones encourage a surge of sebum,causing clogged pores and inflammation that can lead to chin acne, according to the AAD.

Personal habits, such as eating greasy foods that leave oil around the mouth or using cosmetics that are not oil-free, can exacerbate existing chin acne, the AAD stated.

At-Home Treatments

Comedos often respond to at-home treatment. Gently cleanse comedos twice daily using an over-the-counter acne cream. Look for cleansers with benzoyl peroxide, aluminum chloride, azelaic acid, salicylic acid, sulfur, resorcinol or lactic acid, according to Livestrong.com. In addition, use oil-free makeup and shampoo oily hair daily.

Medical Attention

For moderate to severe chin acne, consult a dermatologist. Treatment will take time because it does not target existing acne, which heals by itself, but prevents recurrences, the AAD stated.

The dermatologist will analyze your condition and make a treatment plan, which may include topical skin treatments, oral treatment or a combination of both.

Laser and light-based treatments are continually being assessed for effectiveness.

Steroid injections are typically used on large, painful cysts, the AAD stated.

Warnings

Some over-the-counter and prescription treatments are not safe for pregnant women, women who are planning a pregnancy or diabetics, even if used for a short time, so consult your physician if you have questions, Acne Talks stated.

References

• Acne Talks: Chin Acne in Women
• American Academy of Dermatology: Acne
• Livestrong.com: Neck and Chin Acne