Why Pimples Keep Coming Back in the Same Spots
Have you ever noticed pimples popping up in the exact same place on your face, like clockwork? It feels frustrating, but there are clear reasons why this happens. Pimples form when oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, and inflammation team up to clog your pores[1][2]. When they return to the same spot, it is often because that area has conditions that make it easy for the process to repeat.
One big reason is hormones. They ramp up oil production in specific zones, like the chin and jawline. For women especially, this hormonal acne can stick around into adulthood, triggered by stress, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or even conditions like PCOS. These spots get oily and clogged over and over because the hormones keep targeting those glands[1][2].
Another factor is your habits and surroundings. Friction from masks, phones, or dirty pillowcases rubs the same area daily, trapping bacteria and sweat. Heat from helmets or tight hats does the same. If you touch or pick at a spot, you spread bacteria right back into it before it heals[1][3].
Diet plays a role too. Foods high in sugar, like sodas and pastries, or dairy like milk and whey protein, can spike oil production. For some people, these lead to breakouts in consistent places, such as the jaw or cheeks[1][2].
Skincare mistakes keep the cycle going. Using heavy makeup, hair products, or washing your face too much strips natural oils, making your skin produce even more to compensate. This clogs the same vulnerable pores. Toothpaste with fluoride or steroid creams can irritate spots around the mouth[1].
Genetics set the stage. Some people inherit oilier skin or pores that clog easily in certain areas. Bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes loves thriving there once things get blocked[1].
The spot itself might have a hair follicle or gland that is extra active. Constant irritation from shaving, sweat, or even irritating products keeps inflammation simmering, pulling in more pimples[1][3].
Sources
https://www.doctorrogers.com/blogs/blog/acne-pimples-101-why-we-break-out-what-s-actually-going-on-and-how-to-handle-it-like-a-dermatologist
https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/about-us/news/acne-over-30
https://consciouschemist.com/blogs/good-skin-blog/why-you-keep-getting-pimples-in-the-same-spot-and-how-to-stop-it
