Acne, more often than not, is dismissed as a mere teenage nuisance, but it can be a complex puzzle with clues from our organs and hormones. Working individuals are increasingly susceptible to stress, irregular sleeping patterns, and dietary changes, all of which can significantly impact skin health and cause breakouts. We blame products, weather, stress, menstrual cycle and other factors for our breakouts, but the answers might be lurking in our bodies, silently communicating through those pesky pimples. The truth is that acne can be a message from within, and understanding this can be the key to clearer skin.

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Those pesky, recurring pimples might make you feel like there’s a serious underlying problem, but it’s not time to panic yet. While ancient theories suggest these spots could indicate issues in specific organs (like kidney or liver problems), modern science hasn't found any real proof for these theories. So before you blame your acne on your organs, consider other factors like your skin care routine or diet. We are here with a face map backed by science and evidence.

Why Do You Break Out In These Areas?

Cheeks

Your cheeks might be whispering secrets about your health and lifestyle habits. A filthy pillowcase or cellphone can cause cheek acne if it's the only side of your face that breaks out, as per the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Makeup residue from sponges and brushes can also leave blemish trails. Other habits like touching your face.

Internally, the upper cheek is related to the lungs, and the lower cheek to the mouth. Therefore, conditions like gingivitis, smoking, halitosis, and bronchitis can cause cheek breakouts. So, clean your phone, change your pillowcase, consider cleaning your smartphone regularly with a disinfectant wipe, maintain proper hygiene and invest in high-quality makeup brushes for clean cheeks.

Eyebrow area

The oils and products in hair care products can clog the pores on your forehead and around your eyebrows, causing breakouts. Try switching to a gentle, non-comedogenic shampoo and conditioner, and avoid letting hair products touch your forehead and eyebrows. If you have thick or coarse eyebrows, ingrown hairs can cause irritation, bumps, and breakouts. Sebum, the natural oil produced by the skin's sebaceous glands, can build up in the pores around the eyebrows, leading to clogs and breakouts. Poor water intake can cause dehydration, which makes your skin more prone to breakouts. Waxing the eyebrows can sometimes exacerbate acne if the skin is not properly cared for after the procedure.

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Forehead

Forehead acne can be triggered by various factors, both internal and external. Hair products are a common culprit, particularly conditioners, hairsprays, and hair dyes. On the inside, issues related to your bladder, digestive system, or nervous system, such as dehydration, eating processed foods, or experiencing increased levels of cortisol, can cause forehead acne. Insufficient sleep, poor diet, and stress also contribute to these pesky spots.

Chin

Breakouts here can be a sign of hormonal imbalance caused by issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), or even thyroid disorders as per research. It's like your chin is the mouthpiece of your reproductive system, letting you know when something's off-kilter. So, if you're seeing a spate of chin acne, it might be time for a trip to the gynaecologist for a hormone checkup.

Neck

If your neck seems like a minefield of pimples, your lymphatic system could be telling you it's time for a detox. But don’t freak out; this just means your body might need some help flushing out toxins. Also, it’s not always internal, either. Are you slathering on too much hair product? That could be causing breakouts in this area. Or maybe it’s time to switch to a gentler laundry detergent for your pillowcases.

Related Story: The Real Reason Behind Your Acne

Nose

Acne near the top or sides of your nostrils could be a sign of poor circulation, indigestion, high blood pressure, or heart issues. Blood pressure and blood flow can affect the skin on your nose, as can secondhand smoke and stress. Even your favourite spicy dish might leave a mark! And let’s not forget those pesky blackheads and congestion that can plague this area.

Jawline

Jawline breakouts could be telling you that your body is struggling to absorb nutrients, you’re overindulging, or your liver is underperforming. To clear up those troublesome spots, consider cutting down on inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, caffeine, and sugar. But if you notice those pesky keloids, stubborn pimples that resist popping, it could be a sign of an estrogen surge.

Regular health checks are essential for everyone, but they are particularly important for individuals who are at risk of or already have any underlying condition. Taking regular health checks can help detect the condition at an early stage when it is easier to manage and treat. With the UR.Life HRA, we help you to invest in your well-being through seamless interventions and targeted medical treatments. Our holistic wellness approach caters to all aspects of your well-being. We ensure that you can bring your whole self to work.

With our medical professionals by your side, routine health check-ups will never be an issue. Advanced laboratory technologies back UR.Life’s Occupational Health Centers (OHC), and with highly qualified experts/technicians, we’re committed to delivering trusted and quality recommendations, modifications and advice to you.