Why Am I Getting Pimples On My Chin?

Pimples on the chin are very common, particularly for people with hormonal or adult acne. While not dangerous, they can be embarrassing or unsightly.

Pimples are small, raised spots on the skin. They occur when the hair follicles and sebaceous oil glands get clogged with dead skin, oil, and bacteria.  

Pimples are a type of blemish that appear in acne vulgaris, or common acne. Acne usually begins in puberty but can continue into your 30s, 40s, or even 50s.

Pimples will often go away on their own, but there are steps you can take to prevent and treat them.

There are several different types of acne, each of which looks a little different. In addition to pimples, there are other blemishes that may indicate mild or severe acne.

Common signs of acne on the chin include:

Whiteheads and blackheads

These are clogged pores and are the mildest forms of acne. When the pore is clogged, it can either close over the debris or remain open. If it closes, you will see a small white or flesh-toned bump, which is called a whitehead. If it remains open, it will look like a dark spot and is called a blackhead. 

Whiteheads and blackheads usually go away on their own but can turn into pimples. 

Papules 

Papules are early pimples. They occur when debris pushes deeper into the skin instead of remaining at surface level. They are small, red bumps that feel hard to the touch.

Pustules

Pustules are much like papules but contain a yellowish pus. The center of the red pustule is often tinged white or yellow as a result.

Acne nodules and cysts

These are often painful blemishes that penetrate deep into the skin and can cause scarring. If you have this form of acne, you should see a doctor to help treat it.

Both adolescents and adults can develop acne on their chin. Teen acne most often appears in the “T-zone,” which includes the chin as well as the nose and forehead. Adult-onset acne often results from hormone fluctuations and appears along the jawline. Women are significantly more likely than men to develop adult acne.

Causes of pimples on the chin include:

• Oily skin
• Fluctuating hormones
• Hormone disorders, like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
• Eating habits
• Stress
• Genetics
• Certain medications
• Hair and skincare products

Sports equipment and facial masks can contribute to acne and should be washed regularly. Makeup and coarse fabrics can also worsen your acne.

If you are concerned about recurring pimples, you can consult your general practitioner or a dermatologist. They can prescribe medication or suggest alternative solutions. 

People with cystic acne should see their doctor because this disorder doesn’t respond to most topical solutions and can cause scarring if left untreated.

Your doctor should be able diagnose most acne from a basic inspection, differentiating pimples from other bumps that can appear on the skin. 

Your doctor may ask questions about acne patterns and general medical history in order to figure out what is causing the pimples. 

Depending on its severity, there are many things you can do to prevent and treat pimples and other breakouts. 

Wash your face

Acne treatment starts with clean skin. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Don’t use harsh products or scrub too hard as either can irritate your skin and make acne worse. You should also avoid picking at or popping pimples, which frequently makes them worse.

Cut down on dairy and sugar

People who regularly consume soda and other sugary products are a little more likely to have acne than those who do not. The same is true of people who consume a lot of dairy. 

Use the right products

If you have acne, avoid oil-based makeup, skincare, and hair care products. Use products with labels that contain one of the following words and phrases:

• Non-comedogenic
• Water-based
• Oil-free
• Non-acnegenic
• Won’t clog pores

Try over-the-counter remedies

The following ingredients can all be found in drugstores and have proven to reduce acne:

• Retinoids
• Salicylic acid
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Azelaic acid

Retinoids have proven particularly helpful in treating whiteheads and blackheads. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide may be more effective at treating papules and pustules.

Prescription treatments

In addition to stronger versions of over-the-counter products, your doctor may prescribe any of the following:

• Antibiotics
• Dapsone
• Oral retinoids

They may also recommend that you take something to regulate your hormones such as birth control, which can help control sebum (oil component) production. 

Lasers or light therapy

A cosmetic dermatologist may recommend some version of light therapy to help treat your acne. Focused light can help pimples to heal. These procedures usually take place over multiple sessions in a treatment room.