How to treat forehead acne

Which treatment should you choose?

• Blackheads and small white or skin coloured bumps: adapalene, a retinoid related to vitamin A, helps unclog pores. Adapalene 0.1% is available without a prescription in the US; access elsewhere varies.
• Raised pimples or spots with pus: benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid washes are options. Benzoyl peroxide reduces bacteria; salicylic acid helps unplug blocked pores.
• Acne with lingering dark marks: azelaic acid reduces inflammation and can help fade marks after acne clears.
• Deep, painful lumps: see a dermatologist rather than relying on shop bought treatments. These spots have a greater risk of permanent scarring.

Check your hair products and hats

Hair oil can trigger acne on the forehead and temples, sometimes called pomade acne. Switch to hair products containing water or glycerin instead of oil, or keep hair oil to the middle of your scalp and hair ends. If breakouts continue, stop using the suspected products. Wash caps and hats frequently: accumulated sweat, dirt and oil can make acne flare.3

Choose skincare and makeup labelled "noncomedogenic", meaning formulated not to clog pores. A product labelled "won't clog pores" is a better starting point than one with an ambitious name.1

How to start treating your forehead

1. 1Wash gently morning and evening. Use your fingertips and pat dry with a clean towel. Acne is not caused by dirt. Gentle cleansing is part of treatment, not an audition for a household cleaning product.
2. 2If starting benzoyl peroxide, choose the lowest strength available. Apply a small amount to one or two small affected areas for three days before broader use. If there is no reaction or discomfort, follow the product directions.
3. 3Start benzoyl peroxide once daily. For a leave on gel, apply a thin layer to clean, dry affected skin. For a gel wash, wet the area, wash for one to two minutes, then rinse and pat dry. Wash your hands before and afterwards.
4. 4Keep benzoyl peroxide away from your eyes, nose, mouth, hair and coloured fabrics. It can bleach hair and fabric. Use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
5. 5Remove makeup each evening, because its working day is over. Do not add other acne medicines to benzoyl peroxide unless a pharmacist or doctor approves the combination.

What if treatment irritates your skin?

Benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness, peeling or discomfort. Using it less often can help; ask a pharmacist or doctor if symptoms persist or bother you. Avoid harsh cleansers and excessive exfoliation. More benzoyl peroxide will not work faster. Do not apply it to broken or infected skin. Stop and get prompt medical help for burning, blistering, marked swelling or a rash. Stop and seek emergency help for throat tightness, breathing difficulty, faintness or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.467

How long should you give treatment?

Most acne treatments take at least four to six weeks to make a noticeable difference. If spots persist after six to eight weeks, arrange a review; seek help sooner if acne worsens, causes scars or affects your mental health. Do not squeeze spots or scrub blackheads, as these habits can worsen acne or cause scars.124

Who needs extra care?

If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, breastfeeding or using prescription medicines, check your acne treatment with a pharmacist or doctor before starting. Benzoyl peroxide can usually be used during pregnancy, but check first. Children under 12 need medical advice before using it. In darker skin tones, treat acne early to reduce the risk of lasting dark marks and scars; treating marks alone leaves their acne trigger untreated.367