Acne blemishes are the result of clogged pores from oil and dead skin cells. Normally, dead skin cells make their way to the top of the skin and then fall off; however, if there is too much oil or your pores are clogged then the dead skin cells get stuck. Acne is a caused by a combination of skin cells, dirt, and oil clogging pores and and forming pimples.
Occasionally, bacteria that normally reside within the skin also gets trapped. As the bacteria thrive on the dead skin cells and oil, they grow in number, causing redness and inflammation. This process results in the creation of pus and whiteheads. As the whitehead grows it can become large enough to be a cyst.
These breakouts can occur anywhere on the face, but some people experience acne around the chin. Chin acne causes distress and low self-esteem. In this article we will help you tackle the reasons for acne on the chin and their treatments.
What are the Causes of Chin Acne?
Hormonal Imbalance
If you are experiencing breakouts and cystic acne on the chin or around the jawline, hormonal imbalance may be the main reason why. Studies have indicated that acne on the chin and jawline is frequently caused by a hormonal imbalance.1-2
A specific class of hormones called androgens stimulate and increase sebum production. Sebum is the oil that helps your skin stay moisturized. In excess it will produce a sheen on your face. In women, androgen production is increased during monthly periods and in medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Increased androgen levels may also be caused by birth control pills. There are some birth control pills that increase androgen production. There are others that don’t but once you are off them, there is an androgen spike and overproduction of sebum.3
Natural Remedies for Hormonal Acne: A comprehensive supplement that not only supports a healthy inflammation response, but also hormonal balance is important for clear skin. We recommend using DIM which helps support hormonal balance and is included in DrFormulas Dermatrope Clear Skin Support Packets.
Poor Sanitation
The chin is an area that is commonly touched and contaminated. Resting the chin on a dirty surface, dripping food onto the chin, and stroking the chin with your dirty hands are all examples that can introduce bacteria, oil and dirt onto the skin and clog your pores.
Natural Remedy: First thing you can start right away is picking up DrFormulas morning and night skincare routine. Consequently, be more mindful of what is touching your chin and clean the skin surrounding your mouth after meals. Picking up these healthy habits may make a big difference in your skin health.
Insulin and Inflammation
Psychological and dietary stress including poor sleep4 and acne causing foods5 can lead to the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) which causes acne.6 Eating foods rich in carbohydrates causes blood sugar and insulin spikes in the body, exacerbating inflammation and making acne worse.
Our Suggested Natural Remedy: It is important to get good quality sleep, so reduce your caffeine consumption and practice good sleep hygiene. In addition, eat more whole foods and avoid acne causing foods. Foods that have a high-glycemic index such as dairy, refined carbohydrates, and processed fruits should be avoided.
DrFormulas Dermatrope Clear Skin Support Packets include probiotics, fish oil, and turmeric to help lower inflammation and help support clear skin. Studies have shown a relationship between gut and skin health.
Natural Herbs to Support Clear Skin
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3969667/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5015761/
3. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/adult-acne
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3767932/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2836431/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4565837/
About the Author:
Dr. Bryan Do, D.O. is an osteopathic physician whose research interests include gastroenterology, immunology, and dermatology. He is particularly interested in the role of probiotics in the gut-brain-skin axis and has written many articles on the topic. He graduated from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) before graduating from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Indianapolis, Indiana and becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. Osteopathic physicians are taught to take a holistic approach to medicine and to consider mind, body, and spirit when treating a patient. Osteopathic physicians receive training in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) in addition to the standard rigorous medical school curriculum. Both physicians with a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree as well as a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) can practice medicine.