Kelly Swann, aesthetic nurse and skincare expert at Swann Beauty (Newcastle, England), shares tips for understanding and treating acne.
According to Swann, acne isn’t a one-size-fits-all issue. Breakouts can be triggered by everything from seasonal changes to the conditions of each specific area of your face. Understanding the cause behind each breakout is key—and with that knowledge comes the right solution.
Face Mapping
“Face-mapping is a brilliant tool for understanding why acne appears in specific areas of your face. It’s not just about the surface—it can actually reveal what's happening inside your body. For example, breakouts on the forehead might be linked to stress or digestive issues, while acne along the jawline could signal hormonal imbalances. By paying attention to where your acne pops up, you can start connecting the dots to your overall health and take a more targeted approach to treating it.”
Hairline and Temple
“Acne along the hairline and temples is often caused by a mix of factors, such as hair products, hormonal fluctuations, sweat, or even what you’re eating. These areas can be more prone to breakouts because of the buildup of oils or residue from styling products. If you’re noticing consistent breakouts in these spots, it might be time to check the ingredients in your hair products, pay attention to your diet, or make sure you’re washing away sweat and grime after a workout.”
Treatment: "To treat hairline acne, use non-oily hair products and non-comedogenic moisturizers to prevent clogged pores. Regularly cleanse your hairline and avoid heavy styling products, incorporating a salicylic acid treatment to help keep the skin clear."
T-Zone
“Acne in the T-zone (your forehead, nose, and chin) happens because these areas tend to have more oil-producing glands. When these glands become overactive, it can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. The T-zone is a hotspot for oil and impurities, which can mix with dead skin cells and dirt, leading to acne breakouts. Hormonal changes, stress, or using the wrong skincare products can also contribute so keeping the T-zone clean and using oil-controlling products can help balance things out and prevent those pesky breakouts.”
Treatment: “To tackle T-zone acne, start with a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil without drying out your skin. Then, apply a targeted treatment with salicylic acid to unclog pores and benzoyl peroxide to eliminate any acne-causing bacteria. Finish off with an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser to keep your skin balanced, hydrated, and clear."
Cheeks
“Acne on the cheeks can be caused by a number of factors. The cheeks have larger pores, which can trap dirt, oil, and bacteria, leading to breakouts. Hormonal changes, stress, or even lifestyle habits like touching your face often or using dirty phone screens can contribute to acne in this area. Additionally, certain skincare or makeup products may clog pores on the cheeks, causing spots. If your breakouts tend to be more persistent, it’s worth considering whether your diet or environmental factors, like pollution, could be playing a role, too.”
Treatment: “To tackle cheek acne, much like with the T-zone, turn to products like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to target and calm any inflammation. Since the skin on your cheeks is sensitive, try to avoid touching your face to prevent transferring bacteria from your hands. Stick with non-comedogenic skincare and makeup to ensure your pores stay clear and your skin stays balanced.”
Jawline
“Spots on the jawline are often linked to hormonal fluctuations, especially around the time of menstrual cycles, stress, and even diet. The jawline is part of the lower face, where hormones can trigger oil production, leading to clogged pores. In some cases, these breakouts may also be linked to lifestyle habits like touching your face or using products that irritate the skin. The skin in this area is more prone to deeper, cystic acne, which can be both painful and harder to treat. If jawline breakouts are persistent, it might be worth looking into underlying hormone imbalances or diet changes.”
Treatment: “Jawline acne is commonly caused by hormonal fluctuations, so consulting with your doctor can help identify any underlying issues. Sticking to a consistent skincare routine and avoiding heavy or greasy products will keep your skin clear and your pores from becoming clogged. Additionally, try not to touch or rest your chin in your hands, as this can transfer bacteria and oils to an already sensitive area.”
Neck
“Spots on the neck can be caused by several factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, and even poor hygiene. The skin on your neck is delicate and can be more sensitive to products like heavy moisturizers, fragrances, or even hair products that might clog pores. Sweat and friction from clothing or accessories like scarves and necklaces can also contribute to breakouts. Additionally, neck acne can sometimes be linked to lifestyle habits, such as diet or lack of sleep, which can disrupt the skin's natural balance. Keeping the area clean, using gentle skincare, and managing stress can help reduce breakouts here.”
Treatment: “When treating neck acne, it's important to be mindful of the skin's delicacy in this area. Use a gentle cleanser and a mild treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to target acne and eliminate bacteria without irritation. Avoid greasy products, opt for breathable fabrics to prevent sweat buildup, and resist touching or rubbing the area to prevent further breakouts.”