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Forehead acne can cause a major toll on one’s physical and mental well being. Find out why sleep is important to combat and address acne.

How to get rid of forehead acne? 

Forehead acne has been a significant problem in the United Kingdom, particularly in younger adults. Research cannot prove that diet or sleep deprivation alone can cause acne; however, many people have claimed that dehydration and lack of sleep have affected their skin. Some consider food playing a significant role in causing acne; however, it requires more than a diet change to get results. Some have believed that stressing too much about diet and sleep can lead to stress which indirectly causes acne. At the same time, some have tried to achieve a well-balanced combination between healthy sleep, balanced exercise and the proper diet to combat acne. 

What is acne? 

Acne is a skin condition that most commonly affects teenagers and younger adults, although the incidence of acne can occur at any age. It has been a leading concern worldwide, which merits pressing attention. There are different types which include:

Spots:

Is caused by the build-up of dirt, dead skin cells, or a hair follicle buried into the skin, causing blockage to the skin's pore. People can use over-the-counter medicine to address this; we caution our viewers to consult a dermatologist to ensure the proper course of treatment. 

Pustules:

These are small, pus-filled skin lesions that grow on the back, face, shoulders and other parts of the body. Pustules may be an indicator of an infection. In other cases, pustules are non-infectious and may be a side effect of medication or inflammation. Always check with a health care provider that can assess the root cause through a bacteria culture. 

Blackheads:

A milder form of acne, blackheads are typically bumps that appear on the face or nose. A milder form of acne, it does not have physiologically life-threatening implications. However, blackheads do have psychological repercussions for those affected. 

Whiteheads:

Also referred to as acne vulgaris, are caused by oil build and when dead skin closes off hair follicles, resulting in a blockage of an oil gland (sebaceous glands).

Nodules:

A skin condition that is considered one of the severe types of acne, abnormal skin growth due to aggregation of tissues. These can grow beneath the skin and even form in bodily organs. These abnormal skin growths are also often referred to as cysts.

Papules:

Usually called skin lesions, is a raised area in the skin about 1 centimetre in diameter. It can be distinct or indistinct and show discolouration or change of texture in the skin.

Factors that affect forehead acne

Other factors cause acne. Although the physiological explanation as to why acne is an important one, other factors can affect the incidence of acne. It's important to acknowledge that genetics, dire environmental conditions, hygiene, and even stress can increase the likeliness of acne flare-ups or breakouts. Hormonal changes can also be a significant reason for acne to grow. Acne is most common on the forehead and is the most noticeable form. Although other body parts, such as the back, neck, and collar bone, the neck can also get acne. To manage the incidence of acne from spreading, we must understand other factors contributing to acne's prevalence. 

Other causes of acne 

Acne can quickly spread if unmanaged; however, to control it from getting worse, it is necessary to understand other causes that lead to aggravating an acne condition. A condition called cystic can occur due to physiological reasons, such as genetics (one can be predisposed to getting acne) or even hormonal changes. However, there are other factors to consider. It can also be due to external factors such as a combination of oil build-up, bacteria and sebum secretion clogging up the pores. An inflammatory condition that causes pimples to grow deep beneath the skin, resulting in swollen and pus-filled acne.

Stress

Stress can also cause acne to get worse.

There has been a significant misconception about the correlation between stress and acne. Research, however, shows that stress can aggravate an already existing acne condition. According to studies, just as stress can slow down the healing process in wounds, it can also cause acne to get worse. Acne severity may worsen with increasing anxiety, and emotional stress from external factors can significantly influence acne. One must not stress getting rid of forehead acne, as it can worsen an acne condition. Thus, it's essential to be conscious of stress levels, be it for taking an exam or preparing for a presentation at work, or if it's to treat your acne. Research emphasises the need to control stress levels.

Lack of hygiene 

In order to avoid the transmission of infectious diseases, good cleanliness is essential.

The lack of oral hygiene can lead to acne. If you notice a group of acne growth located around your mouth, chin, and cheeks, this may be an indication that you have poor oral hygiene. It’s important to wipe out any bacteria that lingers on the skin right after you brush your teeth. This happens when bacteria lingers and festers on the skin surface while brushing. Some research also suggests that certain chemicals found in toothpaste may even cause acne. However, contrary to popular belief, there is no direct relationship between acne and hygiene. Although hygiene only indirectly influences the prevalence of acne.  Most of the biological reasons for acne occur underneath the skin’s surface. Cleanliness of the skin does not affect acne, and rigorous washing multiple times a day may even aggravate an acne condition. 

Diet

The relationship between diet and acne has long been a source of contention.

Although research supposes that diet has a significant effect on the factors that affect acne, there has been no known scientific finding that proves a direct relationship between the two. A study conducted in 2005 showed that milk consumption is relevant to the prevalence of acne—however, the poor sample size and participants' demographic caused researchers to question the study's validity. Peer reviewers raise that the respondents being pubescent adults are more predisposed to acne due to their age than milk consumption. The correlation between diet and acne has been the subject of long-standing debate, and many studies have confirmed that high sugar diets and dairy products are risk factors for acne. 

An increase in sugar intake of 100g per day to frequent consumption of 7 times per week of carbonated sodas, sweet teas and fruit-flavoured drinks and consuming high amounts of dark chocolate are significantly and positively associated with acne. A high glycemic load in the body can lead to an increase in blood glucose, which may elevate levels of insulin secretion. High sugar intake also leads to increased production of insulin-growth-life-factors-1 (IGF-1), which increases androgen levels, promotes sebum production, and leads to hyperkeratosis (thickening of the skin's outer layer) of hair follicle sebaceous glands to affect lipid excretion which aggravates the occurrence of acne. There have also been studies that attribute spicy food to acne. However, further study needs to explore this as there has yet to be substantial evidence that supports the relationship between the two. 

Too many things on the bed may lead to acne

Mindfulness, excellent mental health, and a strong immune system all benefit from a balanced sleep cycle.

As much as understanding the internal and bodily factors that play into the prevalence of acne, it is crucial to understand what environmental conditions affect acne. Studies show that high temperatures can lead to the occurrence and widespread of acne. Extremely high temperatures for humid or cold conditions are positively relevant to acne occurrence. A healthy bed climate means it is vital to maintain a healthy environment temperature to avoid, manage or treat acne conditions. Regulating your bed temperature also can help promote sleep health and establish and maintain circadian rhythms. A healthy sleep cycle allows for mindfulness, good mental health, and a healthy immune system. 

Another factor that negatively affects healthy sleep and may promote the existence of acne and pathogen producing bacteria is keeping too many things on the bed. Having too many things on the bed can lead to the accumulation of bacteria, germs or pathogens that cause acne. These items may include hair products - which research has identified as one of the acne-causing agents. In addition, having a cluttered mess for your sleeping quarters may lead to added stress levels or increased levels of anxiety as it may crowd your space. We recommend keeping just blankets and pillows in the bed, removing other items to condition the body for rest and eliminating sleep disruption.

Does lack of sleep cause acne?

Sleep deprivation can cause acne. That’s the simple answer: sleeplessness directly impacts the factors that cause acne. Some of these factors include anxiety, cosmetics, hormones, depression, medication and stress. A lack of sleep has been shown to increase levels of stress and increase the production of sebum, which in turn, clogs the pores and eventually leads to an acne breakout. 

How does lack of sleep cause acne?

When one lacks sleep, the body’s first line of defence weakens. The immune system is responsible for defending your skin against germs, microbes and infections. When you sleep enough, the immune system can fight infections that cause an acne breakout. Further, hormone levels increase when you lack sleep. Because stress is another factor that causes acne, cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, increases when you lack sleep. 

When one has enough sleep, the cortisol levels in the body decrease. The body becomes well-rested, and in effect, the muscles tend to relax because quality sleep helps improve your emotional state dramatically. When your mood improves, this helps strengthen your immune system and its ability to fight off bacteria and pathogens causing acne. When you lack sleep, the body’s cortisol levels increase, and as the consequence - the sebaceous glands produce more oil which can cause a buildup and blockage of the pores, which triggers an acne breakout. 

On the other hand, when one is sleep-deprived, the body is more likely to release cortisol and inflammatory proteins that cause acne breakouts. It is vital to establish a healthy sleep schedule to promote a healthy circadian rhythm - the bodily process responsible for wakefulness and sleepiness - the cycle of sleep. The body has to recover from stress to treat acne, and sleep is essential to this process. Sleep also promotes the regeneration of skin cells. A study shows that between the hours of 11pm to midnight, cell mitosis of the skin is at its peak. This cell mitosis in the skin is responsible for regeneration and repair. 

The science of growth hormones: how do growth hormones affect acne?

There are several hormones related that affect acne. Struggling with breakouts even though you eat pretty well and have a good skincare routine may still lead to acne. Acne is an indicator that the body is a little off-balance, and not functioning as it should. Zits are indicators in the body that tell us that our bodies might be in the initial phases of duress or hormonal imbalance. There are several types of hormones associated with the occurrence of acne.

Androgens 

Androgens play an essential role in puberty and are responsible for reproductive health and physical development in growing teenagers. This sexual group of hormones can crank up an acne flare when it takes form in its aggressive form - DHT. Dht is potent and causes the overproduction of oil and builds upon the skin's surface. Stress makes our skin glands more likely to acquire and receive excess androgens. Combining these elements helps create an environment conducive for acne to grow wider. Some related diseases to androgens include:

• Infertility
• Weight gain
• Hair growth in unwanted places
• Irregular menstrual cycles or no period at all
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome

Progesterone

Progesterone's critical role in the body is that it blocks the conversion of testosterone to its more potent form, DHT. Progesterone's component, 5a-reductase, inhibits the enzyme, preventing the effects of androgens. It is widespread to see the impact of progesterone at work with high-stress levels. Low progesterone levels contribute to acne that flares up; this mainly is seen when you go off the pill. However, it is also important to note that it is pretty common to have lower progesterone levels for a time when your body still remembers how to make its sexual hormones. Otherwise, your body will "forget" after relying on (synthetic hormones such as Oestrogen and progestins from birth control). A healthy amount of progesterone is encouraged and is highly underrated. We often overlook the hormone in the management and treatment of hormonal acne. 

Oestrogen

Considered one of the most important sex hormones, oestrogen is essential as it is needed in the right amounts to achieve clear and smooth skin. An imbalance - meaning having too much Oestrogen or a lack thereof - may result in hormonal acne. Oestrogen behaves very much like progesterone because it manages the effects of androgens. These two hormones work together to balance; as one rises, the other should fall. Oestrogen should be the dominant hormone in the first half of the menstrual cycle - and progesterone for the second stage (known as the luteal phase).  

Androgen can mess with the situation by increasing oil production levels, leading to pimples. Possessing high levels of optimal oestrogen levels can also contribute to acne. The liver must detoxify Oestrogen once it has completed its function. Then, the body should excrete the byproduct of the hormone after that. Excess amounts of Oestrogen to detoxify, including other environmental toxins, chemicals, skincare, and cosmetic products, can toll the liver.

Insulin

Insulin has been one of the primary reasons researchers have yet to cross out diet as one of the causes of acne. The pancreas produces insulin to manage and regulate glucose levels in the bloodstream. Our bodies produce insulin whenever we consume food, especially during the breakdown of carbohydrates - which is a much needed and welcome reaction since the body needs carbs. However, we must avoid significant spikes in insulin by managing glucose intake. 

Here are some high glycaemic-index (GI) carbohydrates - a ranking on how carbohydrates rates high for whether how slow or how fast the body digests it and therefore increases blood glucose levels over time. 

• Noodles 
• Sugary drinks, soft drinks or fruit juices
• Pastries
• Pasta
• Bread
• Sweets

High insulin levels make androgens more active, with excessive oil production and increasing insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 is a hormone that increases the incidence of acne through the increase of inflammation and excess skin cells, and it's no surprise that acne is the result.

Cortisol

Although the hormone Cortisol does not directly affect our skin, the effects of cortisol on the body during stress are one worth recognizing. When there are excessive cortisol levels in the body, other hormones in the body will follow. When one is in a stressful situation and not getting enough sleep, cortisol is the primary cause. Pregnenolone is an essential hormone that makes up both cortisol and progesterone. 

When in a stressed state, a human being will produce more stress hormones rather than sex hormones. Because of this, high levels of cortisol are standard for low progesterone. Besides this, cortisol is also responsible for the body's 'fight or flight response' to perceived stress. When cortisol triggers this response, it releases glucose into the bloodstream, and high levels of sugar trigger increased insulin and androgen activity, eventually leading to inflammation and, in the end, acne. It's impossible to achieve glowing skin when you're in a constant state of stress. 

Remedies and Solutions: Acne Management

It's easy to feel intimidated by the influx of information on the internet regarding acne management. We've condensed some of the easiest and doable tips to control acne, and stress and, in the long run, be able to improve your mental health and wellness. Here are a few quick tips that are easy to read and digest, saving you more time to get to your acne management routine.

• The use of tea tree oil can help manage mild to moderate breakouts and is easy to incorporate into your nighttime skincare routine. No more difficult and long applications, just use it as a spot treatment and switch off the lights. However, it is imperative to do a patch test to see if you get an allergic reaction. Always consult your dermatologist.

• Using a good aloe vera gel on your face is good for you as it has antibacterial properties, and can help seal moisture to the face that can help soften dead skin cells. Gently rinse with a facial cleanser prescribed by your dermatologist. The other two household items that have been found to have the same component are honey and cinnamon. 
  
  
• Incorporating an exercise routine, given the right approach, may merit positive effects on an acne condition. Exercise itself helps combat the incidence of breakouts. Physical activity helps even out blood sugar levels in the body which is instrumental in acne management. 
  
  
• Having the right diet helps control the consumption of carbohydrates and increased levels of glucose in the bloodstream.
  
  
• Establishing a better sleep routine and quality rest will lower the incidence of stress and the release of the hormone cortisol.
  
  
• Electric blankets help regulate humidity and help condition your body for a restful night of sleep. Not only does this provide comfort, but it also regulates your bed climate at night, even during those chilly and long winters. Our electric blanket is temperature-controlled and will help you maintain the right and balanced temperature to keep your skin refreshed and rejuvenated, preparing you for the next day. Our heated blankets and snuggly heating cushions come equipped with our 4D DWF technology (Dynamic Warmth Flow) that always keeps your bed at the right temperature. Get restful sleep, while keeping your acne in check.

Disclaimer

Wellcare products are not medical devices and can’t be used for medical purposes. Our tips only serve as a guide to help you through acne management and soothe any existent acne conditions. These tips may be supplemental in the course of acne management, however always consult a licensed dermatologist for a formal skincare regimen plan. Wellcare products are not utilised for treatment, and they do not provide “pain relief” nor do these tips provide complete and permanent treatment for acne. 

Wellcare’s Forehead Acne management tips can help restore and replenish your skin. High humidity can cause acne, and here’s why Wellcare’s 4D DWF electric heated blankets and snuggly heating cushions can  regulate temperature, and help soothe your acne too.