Forehead
Why: Excess oil production is the main cause followed by stress. Watch out for things that can clog pores such as headbands, hats, helmets and even hair products.
Duration: Several weeks on average
Treatment: Over the counter salicylic acid can be very effective as can adapalene 0.1% cream
Cheeks
Why: Bacteria thrive on the cheeks but we also see more relation to diet and cheek acne. Items that contain high sugar, caffeine, dairy and other processed foods can exacerbate acne. Environmental triggers can also be considered with cheek acne such as tobacco smoke or even your cell phone screen, if it contacts your cheek a lot.
Duration: Several weeks on average
Treatment: Products that help clean and sterilize the skin generally help. Look for over the counter products that contain benzoyl peroxide or try a topical antibiotic such as topical clindamycin.
Jawline
Why: Hormonal fluctuations tend to have the highest correlation with acne in the jawline region. Asking patients about conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) or if they feel their acne gets worse with their period can be instrumental in determining the right treatment.
Duration: Often we find the acne to be cyclical, for example, lasting for a few weeks during the menstrual cycle.
Treatment: Over the counter hormonal therapy, such as birth control, can be beneficial. Some prescription products that we find useful include azelaic acid, which is safe to use during pregnancy, dapsone gel and a pill called spironolactone.
Nose/Ears
Why: Excess oil production
Duration: Generally a few weeks
Treatment: Retinoids due well in this area. Over the counter adapalene 0.1% can be a nice starting point but if needed, prescription based retinoid products can potentially offer more aggressive results.
Mouth
Why: Usually we see acne around the mouth due to an outside trigger. Triggers could include residual toothpaste, as the fluoride in toothpaste can irritate the skin, lip balms and topical hydrocortisone use.
Duration: Generally a few weeks but can persist if the trigger is not addressed.
Treatment: Try fluoride free toothpastes or prescription products such as topical metronidazole or azelaic acid.