Acne is a skin condition that develops when pores become clogged with debris and bacteria, causing inflammation and spot formation. Apart from other parts of the body, the neck is one place where pimples can appear. Neck acne or pimples on your jawline and nearby area can be as normal and as common as acne on your face and doesn’t necessarily indicate health issues unless it is severe.
What Does Neck Acne Look Like?
Neck acne is no different from the normal acne you get on your face. It could be a whitehead or a blackhead. If the acne is a result of inflammation it is filled with pus and appears red. Too many small itchy bumps on your neck could be an allergic reaction rather than acne.
Who & What Age Group Is More Prone To Neck Acne?
Teenagers are most susceptible to acne on their faces and neck. Due to hormonal fluctuation, many women might see neck acne before and during their periods. Adults can form neck acne as a result of hormonal fluctuations and poor hygiene.
What Does Neck Acne Indicate?
Pimples on the neck are normal and not to be concerned about and can be treated with OTC products and proper skincare. But if you have persistent and severe acne on jawline and neck, it could be an indication of hormonal acne, and you should see a doctor.
Causes Of Neck Acne
If your skin cells become clogged, acne might form on your neck. The following are some of the possible causes:
- Not routinely cleansing your neck, especially after sweating
- Using a moisturizer, cosmetics, sunscreen, or even a hair product that might have blocked the oil on your skin.
- Excessive rubbing of your neck against clothing material
- Having long hair that irritates the skin around your neck
Types Of Neck Acne
Minor neck acne could be present in the form of whiteheads or blackheads. Papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules are more severe forms of neck acne and are all signs of more inflammation. Papules and pustules appear on the surface of the skin, whereas cysts or nodules form beneath the surface and can be extremely painful.
Treatments & Medications For Neck Acne
Creams, gels, lotions, and other over-the-counter products are available. To ensure that you use these topical treatments appropriately, read the directions carefully. Ingredients used in over-the-counter acne treatments include:
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Benzoyl peroxide: It kills acne-causing germs and reduces pimple swelling.
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Salicylic acid: It dries out your skin and might cause peeling.
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Sulfur: By destroying germs, sulfur unclogs pores. Sulfur is used in spot treatments and can be left on the skin, which may be useful in treating a single pimple.
- These over-the-counter treatments can be used with other ingredients like Retinol and alpha hydroxy acids. These products aren’t intended to treat acne, but they can help acne medications function more effectively.
Prevention Tips For Neck Acne
Here are a few tips to help you avoid having a pimple on your neck:
- Use separate body and hair products.
- Avoid picking at your pimples.
- Wash your skin on a regular basis, especially after you’ve exercised.
- If you have long hair, shampoo it regularly and keep it up.
- Avoid wearing clothing, headgear, or equipment that rubs against your neck.
- Instead of scrubbing your neck, gently cleanse it.
Science-Backed Tips To Prevent Neck Acne
Some proven tips to prevent neck acne are-
- Wear loose-fitting clothes.
- Avoid wearing polyester clothing and only wear breathable plant fabrics.
- Always take a bath after a shower.
- Cleanse yourself gently.
- Don’t use harsh skincare products.
- Use oil-free skincare products and cosmetics.
- Don’t pop pre-existing pimples and it only makes it worse.
- Change and wash your bedsheets and pillow covers often.
Conclusion
Acne is a very common skin condition that causes pimples mostly in various parts of the body. The neck is one of them. Because the skin around the neck is thicker, some people may produce a lot more sweat and oil in this area, clogging pores and causing acne. Genetics, fluctuating hormone levels, stress, high humidity, and the use of oily or greasy personal care products are some of the other causes of acne. Acne is most frequent among teenagers, but it can affect anyone at any age. Pimples on the neck may not indicate a major health problem and can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications.
FAQs
Neck acne that is mild can be treated with over-the-counter medications. Neck Acne that is more severe should be addressed by a doctor.
- Should I be worried if I have neck acne?
Not necessarily. Neck acne can be due to the same reasons as pimples on your face. OTC treatments and proper care could help but if the neck acne is severe and stubborn, it’s recommended to get a clinical prescription.
- What creams should I use to cure pimples on my jawline and neck?
Pimples on jawline and neck can be treated with the same acne products used for facial acne. Popular and effective ingredients include Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide.
