Breakouts are the worst. We all know that feeling of spotting an angry red zit on our flawless complexion right before attending a party, a job interview, or meeting that guy you just swipe right on Tinder. You’ve done everything you can—you scrub and you wash and you moisturize, and yet they’re still there.
However, there is more to breakouts than meets the eye—and the reason why and where they appear in certain areas of your face can also be the key to stopping them for good. Here is your guide to using a face map to decode what your breakouts are telling you:
1. Browline
Makeups such as brow pencil and concealer that aren’t properly washed off at night can result in breakouts above the eyebrows. It could also be hormonal flare-ups during puberty—hormonal imbalances and poor regulation can spark brow blemishes.
2. Forehead
Pimples on the forehead are usually linked to the digestive system, and may indicate that you’re having a hard time breaking down certain junk foods or even spicy foods. It may also indicate liver problems, stress, or an irregular sleep schedule.
3. Cheeks
If pimples are showing up on your cheeks, your cell phone or pillowcase may be the reason. Over time, dirt and oil transfer to your skin, clogging pores and causing blemishes. Your phone accumulates plenty of bad-for-your-skin bacteria during the day. Clean them!
4. Nose
Poor circulation, indigestion, and high blood pressure all show on the nose, either atop or close to the nostrils. Matters of the heart usually show themselves in these areas too, so keep an eye on blood pressure, blood flow, secondhand smoke, and stress.
5. Chin or Jawline
Malabsorption of nutrients, overeating, and liver issues appear on the jawline. Take a look at your diet and see if cutting back on sugars, white bread, processed foods, and dairy will help reduce acne.
