Health Articles > Acne > Tips For Women Suffering Jawline Acne

One of the most common types of acne to afflict women occurs on the jaw. A unique feature of this type of acne is that it tends to occur in adulthood rather than during puberty. According to researchers, the acne that occurs on a womans jaw is generally caused by androgens. These hormones cause the oil glands associated with skin cells to produce and accumulate excess oil. The accumulation of oil ultimately forms plugs, which block the skins hair follicles. The blockage leads to the formation of acne. The first indication a woman may have that she will be afflicted with jaw acne is the formation of a whitehead. A whitehead forms when a hair follicle is plugged up with a combination of oil and discarded skin cells. As this plug comes to the skins surface, the skin turns black in color, and the whitehead becomes what is called a blackhead. Research studies have demonstrated that blackheads are not caused by a build-up of dirt, but by these oil-and-skin-cell plugs that rise to the surface of the skin. If the wall of a hair follicle breaks down, the impacted area experiences swelling and turns red. If this happens on the skins surface, the result is called a pimple, a common skin event. However, if the break down happens deep within the skin layers, it can result in severe acne and manifest in nodules and cysts. Womens jaw acne is a chronic skin condition that can cause a loss of self-esteem, but it can and should be treated. There are simple ways to control the condition. These methods include washing the face gently with a mild cleanser. It is important to remember that acne on the jaw is not caused by dirt. Using a strong detergent soap in an attempt to scrub it away may actually worsen the condition. In addition to regular cleansing with mild soap, women who suffer from jaw acne should never attempt to remove or cure their condition by squeezing, picking, or pinching their blemishes. Squeezing pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads often causes ruptures below the skin, and these can lead to infection and even scarring. Women may also use over-the-counter medications or prescription drugs specifically designed to treat the condition of jaw acne. However, it is important that women learn about their particular skin features and understand the nature of jaw acne. To find an effective treatment and see real improvement in their acne condition, women are advised to consult a dermatologist.