Understand the Meaning Behind Forehead Acne and How to Treat It
Acne breakouts on the face are not exactly a new phenomenon. Approximately 85% of people aged 12–25 have had acne.[1] Acne can also appear on the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and other areas of the body, such as the scalp and back.
Of all these areas, acne on the forehead is particularly common. This has led people to wonder what causes forehead acne. Here is a complete explanation of the causes and how to treat it!
Causes of Forehead Acne

It turns out there is more than one cause of acne on the forehead and eyebrows:
1. Bangs
Most forehead acne is caused by bangs. This is especially true if you are too lazy to wash your hair, allowing dirt and dust to accumulate on your hair and transfer to your forehead. In addition, natural oils from your hair can also easily transfer there.[2]
Furthermore, using certain hair products, such as shampoos and conditioners that are unsuitable for your skin, can also be a factor. All of these can clog pores and irritate the skin, leading to acne on the forehead.
2. Certain Cosmetics or Skincare Products That Are Not Suitable
Not only that, but using cosmetics or certain skincare products that are unsuitable can also trigger acne on the face, including the forehead. This generally occurs when you use skincare products and cosmetics that are oil-based or contain oil.[3]
People prone to acne often have excess oil on their face. Therefore, using skincare products and cosmetics that contain oil will only make matters worse. Excess sebum can clog pores and cause acne to develop.
3. Hormonal Influences
Forehead cystic acne can also be caused by the effects of androgens in the body. This usually occurs during adolescence, when these hormones are fluctuating. However, hormonal acne can also occur in adulthood.
In women, this hormone is estrogen, while in men, it is testosterone. When levels of either hormone surge, the skin produces more oil. This excess oil can interact with bacteria in the pores and follicles, clogging them and causing acne to develop.[4]
4. Poor Stress Management
Finally, poor stress management can also trigger acne on the forehead. Stress can cause hormonal imbalances in the body. In addition, the skin's immune system can also be affected by excessive stress.[5]
How to Treat Forehead Acne
If you are looking for a way to get rid of forehead acne overnight, the answer is no. Like other skin conditions, acne takes time to heal. Typically, acne can clear up within a week if treated properly.
Otherwise, it may take years for acne to clear up. To help acne heal more quickly, you can follow these tips for getting rid of forehead acne.
1. Let Your Forehead Breathe

First, make sure your forehead can breathe. This does not mean you cannot have bangs. However, when your forehead feels hot and oily, sweep your bangs to the side and let your skin breathe.
You can also rinse your forehead with clean water when it becomes too oily. Remember not to use facial cleanser too often. Use it only twice a day to prevent your skin from drying out. Simply rinse with clean water instead.
2. Switch Your Hair Care, Skincare, and Cosmetics

You can also help get rid of forehead acne by switching your hair care, skincare, and cosmetic products. Make sure they do not contain oil to help prevent acne from returning.
For skincare, you can use skincare products containing salicylic acid and retinoids. However, do not use both at the same time.
3. Take Acne Medication

Finally, you can also take acne medication. For a safer option, choose an herbal remedy containing natural ingredients that effectively combat acne, such as Sido Muncul Herbal Aluss.
This product can help clear up forehead acne in just a few weeks. It contains turmeric, cat’s whiskers, galangal, and other natural ingredients. All of these ingredients have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat acne.