small pimples on forehead reason - #16266
I am really worried because for the past few weeks, I’ve noticed these annoying small pimples on my forehead. They started appearing outta nowhere and now it’s like every other day, I wake up and find a new one. I’ve tried changing my skincare routine, I switched to a gentler cleanser and even stopped wearing makeup for a while thinking that might help! But nothing's working. My friend said it might be stress-related or from the food I've been eating, you know, too much junk food. But I just graduated and my diet has been pretty normal, or at least I thought! I read online thinking it might be hormonal since I’ve had these weird mood swings too—could that be a reason for these small pimples on forehead? Also, I’ve been using a new hair product, like a styling gel, but I really don’t wanna blame it on that without knowing for sure. What do you all think? Are there any common reasons for these small pimples on forehead that I should know about? I don’t wanna keep feeling self-conscious about it, it’s driving me nuts! Any advice would be sooo helpful!
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Doctors’ responses
Small pimples on the forehead can indeed stem from various sources, which might include elements like stress, diet, hormones, or even skincare and haircare products. Hormonal changes can certainly cause pimples, as fluctuations in hormones like androgens can increase oil production. Those mood swings you’re experiencing might be linked to hormonal shifts, which could, in turn, be aggravating your skin’s condition. However, given you’ve recently changed your skincare routine and using a new styling gel, it’s worth considering these as possible culprits too. Hair products, especially those containing oils or occlusive agents, can contribute to pore congestion if they come in contact with your skin nearby. This is sometimes referred to as ‘pomade acne’. Switching to non-comedogenic products could help if this is the cause. As for diet, while it is not the direct cause of acne for everyone, foods with a high glycemic index might exacerbate acne for some. Reducing intake of sugary and processed foods could possibly help if diet is a contributing factor. Also, since you mentioned you’re feeling stressed after graduation, stress can increase cortisol levels, which in turn, can trigger acne flare-ups; finding ways to manage stress may improve your skin condition over time. Since you’ve already adjusted your skincare routine, perhaps try a few weeks without the hair product to see if there’s any improvement. If these pimples persist or worsen, it may be wise to consult a dermatologist to explore potential treatments like topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide that target the underlying causes of acne. Such medications can be relatively effective in reducing acne, but they should be prescribed based on a professional assessment to ensure suitability for your skin type. Seeking professional help is usually worthwhile, especially if you’d like a tailored approach to your specific situation.
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