What Causes Acne Around the Mouth
Acne around the mouth is a common skin concern that affects teenagers and adults alike. While pimples can appear anywhere on the face, breakouts around the lips and chin can be particularly frustrating because they are noticeable, painful, and sometimes difficult to treat. Understanding what causes acne around the mouth is the first step toward preventing and managing it effectively.
In this complete SEO-optimized guide, you will learn the main causes, risk factors, treatment options, and prevention tips for acne around the mouth.
Understanding Acne Around the Mouth
Acne around the mouth refers to pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, or inflamed bumps that appear near the lips, chin, and lower cheeks. This area is part of the “T-zone extension,” which often produces excess oil.
Sometimes, acne around the mouth can also be confused with perioral dermatitis, a skin condition that causes small red bumps around the mouth. While they may look similar, they are different conditions and require different treatments.
Main Causes of Acne Around the Mouth
Let’s explore the most common causes.
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations are one of the leading causes of acne around the mouth.
When hormones such as androgens increase, they stimulate oil (sebum) production in the skin. Excess oil mixes with dead skin cells and clogs pores, leading to breakouts.
Hormonal triggers include:
- Menstrual cycle
- Pregnancy
- Puberty
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Stress-related hormonal imbalance
Hormonal acne typically appears around the chin and jawline, which includes the mouth area.
2. Touching Your Face Frequently
Your hands carry bacteria, oil, and dirt throughout the day. When you touch your mouth area frequently, you transfer bacteria onto your skin. This can clog pores and trigger acne.
Common habits include:
- Resting your chin on your hand
- Picking at lips
- Biting nails
- Constantly touching pimples
Reducing face-touching habits can significantly reduce breakouts.
3. Lip Products and Makeup
Lip balms, lipsticks, glosses, and even heavy foundations can clog pores around the mouth.
Products that contain:
- Petroleum
- Mineral oil
- Coconut oil
- Artificial fragrances
may cause breakouts, especially if they are comedogenic (pore-clogging).
If acne appears after using a new lip product, it may be the trigger.
4. Toothpaste Ingredients
Surprisingly, toothpaste can cause acne around the mouth.
Certain ingredients may irritate sensitive skin:
- Fluoride
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- Artificial flavoring
Toothpaste residue left around the lips can clog pores or cause irritation. Switching to a gentle, SLS-free toothpaste may help.
5. Diet and Acne
Although diet affects people differently, some foods may contribute to breakouts around the mouth.
Common dietary triggers:
- Sugary foods
- High glycemic index foods
- Dairy products
- Oily or fried foods
Foods that spike blood sugar levels can increase inflammation and oil production, which may worsen acne.
6. Stress
Stress increases cortisol levels in the body. High cortisol levels stimulate oil glands and can worsen acne.
If you notice more breakouts during stressful periods, stress may be a key factor.
Managing stress through exercise, sleep, and relaxation techniques can help improve skin health.
7. Poor Skincare Routine
Using harsh cleansers, skipping cleansing, or over-exfoliating can damage your skin barrier.
Common mistakes include:
- Not removing makeup properly
- Using heavy creams
- Overwashing the face
- Using alcohol-based toners
A damaged skin barrier becomes inflamed and more prone to acne.
8. Shaving and Hair Removal
For men and women, shaving or waxing around the mouth can irritate hair follicles and cause acne-like bumps.
Improper shaving techniques can cause:
- Razor bumps
- Ingrown hairs
- Inflammation
Using a clean razor and soothing products can prevent irritation.
9. Perioral Dermatitis (Often Confused with Acne)
Sometimes what looks like acne around the mouth may actually be perioral dermatitis.
It appears as:
- Small red bumps
- Burning sensation
- Dry, flaky skin
This condition is often triggered by:
- Steroid creams
- Heavy moisturizers
- Fluoridated toothpaste
If breakouts don’t improve with acne treatment, consult a dermatologist.
How to Treat Acne Around the Mouth
Now that you know what causes acne around the mouth, let’s discuss treatments.
1. Use Gentle Cleansers
Choose a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs that irritate the mouth area.
Look for ingredients like:
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide (low concentration)
- Niacinamide
2. Avoid Comedogenic Products
Switch to non-comedogenic makeup and lip products. Always remove makeup before bed.
3. Maintain Oral Hygiene
After brushing teeth:
- Rinse your mouth area thoroughly
- Wash your face if toothpaste touches skin
Consider switching to a gentle toothpaste if irritation continues.
4. Apply Targeted Treatments
Spot treatments can help reduce inflammation:
- Salicylic acid for clogged pores
- Benzoyl peroxide for bacteria
- Retinoids for cell turnover
Use treatments carefully to avoid excessive dryness.
5. Improve Your Diet
Focus on:
- Fresh vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Drinking enough water
Reducing sugar and processed foods may improve skin over time.
6. Manage Stress
Incorporate:
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Proper sleep
- Deep breathing
Stress reduction supports hormonal balance and skin clarity.
Prevention Tips for Acne Around the Mouth
Prevention is always better than treatment.
Follow these simple steps:
✔ Wash your face twice daily
✔ Avoid touching your mouth area
✔ Change pillowcases regularly
✔ Clean makeup brushes weekly
✔ Use lightweight skincare products
✔ Remove makeup before sleeping
✔ Stay hydrated
When to See a Dermatologist
Consult a dermatologist if:
- Acne is painful and cystic
- Breakouts don’t improve after 6–8 weeks
- You suspect hormonal imbalance
- Skin becomes extremely irritated
Professional treatments may include prescription creams, oral medication, or hormone therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why do I keep getting pimples around my mouth?
Recurring pimples are often caused by hormones, diet, stress, or comedogenic products. Identifying your trigger is key.
2. Can toothpaste cause acne around the mouth?
Yes, certain ingredients like fluoride and SLS may irritate the skin and cause breakouts.
3. Is acne around the mouth hormonal?
In many cases, yes. Hormonal acne commonly appears around the chin and mouth area.
4. How long does acne around the mouth last?
Mild acne may clear in a few days, while hormonal or cystic acne may take weeks without treatment.
5. Can stress cause acne near the lips?
Yes, stress increases cortisol, which can stimulate oil production and worsen acne.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what causes acne around the mouth helps you treat it effectively. The most common triggers include hormonal changes, skincare products, diet, stress, and oral hygiene habits. By identifying your specific cause and following a gentle skincare routine, you can reduce breakouts and maintain healthier skin.
Consistency is key. Clear skin takes time, but with proper care and patience, acne around the mouth can be managed successfully.