Does Facial Hair Cause Acne? Common Hair Mistakes Explained

Keerat Kohli

Keerat Kohli

09 May ‘25
Hair Care Acne Skincare Breakouts
Hair Care Acne Skincare Breakouts

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Pimples are like those annoying guests that always arrive unannounced. And while you blame that pack of French fries you had the other day or the new skincare product you tired, the real culprit is just sitting there watching you freak out.

Any guesses as to who this sneaky culprit could be? Well, it’s none other than… your hair! Yes, you read that right! There is a very high possibility that your hair could be causing those pesky pimples on your face. Wanna know a crazy fact? Studies prove that your hair is one of the main causes of adult acne *yikes*. Well, before you contemplate going bald and wearing a wig for the rest of your life, hear us out. We’ve listed a couple of hair mistakes that can cause acne on your face and how to avoid them. Scroll below to find out what they are…

How Hair and Skin Are Connected: The Science Behind It

How Hair and Skin Are Connected: The Science Behind It

The health of your hair and skin is deeply interconnected, with several factors linking the two. It all starts with the scalp, which is essentially an extension of your skin. Just like the skin on your face, your scalp has sebaceous glands that produce sebum, an oily substance that helps moisturize and protect the skin and hair follicles. However, overproduction of sebum can lead to clogged pores, which may contribute to scalp issues like dandruff or even hair follicle inflammation.

When the scalp is imbalanced, whether through excess oil or dryness, it can affect the health of the hair follicles. In some cases, an irritated or inflamed scalp can cause hair thinning or hair loss. Additionally, just as facial skin is prone to acne, can hair cause pimples on the forehead or along the hairline due to the buildup of oil and dirt? The answer is yes—when sebum and debris accumulate in the hair follicles near the forehead or around the hairline, it can lead to breakouts.

Similarly, does facial hair cause acne? In some cases, it can. Facial hair, particularly if not properly cleansed, can trap oils and dirt on the skin, leading to clogged pores and, potentially, acne. Therefore, maintaining a balance between scalp care and skincare is key. Regular washing of both your hair and face, along with using non-comedogenic products, can help prevent breakouts and promote healthy hair and skin.

Haircare Mistakes That Can Lead to Facial Breakouts

01. Not Showering After a Workout Can Trigger Breakouts

Not Showering After a Workout Can Trigger Breakouts

After a workout, the buildup on your scalp mixes with sweat, and as it slides down your face, it can bring bacteria along with it, leading to breakouts. To prevent this, it's important to rinse your hair post-workout. Even if you don’t want to wash your hair every day, simply taking a quick shower and rinsing your scalp can help remove sweat and oils that clog pores. Opting for a mild, sulfate-free shampoo will keep your scalp clean without stripping it of essential moisture, promoting both scalp and skin health.

02. Letting Your Bangs Sit on Your Forehead May Cause Acne

Letting Your Bangs Sit on Your Forehead May Cause Acne

The natural oils produced by your scalp are essential for keeping your hair healthy and shiny. However, when you have bangs, these oils come into contact with your skin, potentially causing irritation and breakouts. Does long hair cause pimples? Not directly, but when your hair constantly touches your skin, it can transfer oils and dirt, which may lead to acne. Does this mean you should avoid bangs? Not at all! You can try different hairstyles and pin your bangs back when you can. Additionally, washing your bangs separately between full hair washes helps reduce oil buildup on your forehead and keeps breakouts at bay.

03. Sleeping With Open Hair Can Transfer Oil to Your Skin

Sleeping With Open Hair Can Transfer Oil to Your Skin

If your hair feels greasy or dirty, it’s a good idea to gather it into a loose ponytail or bun before heading to bed. This simple step keeps your hair away from your face, helping to prevent breakouts. Can hair contribute to pimples? Absolutely! When oils and product residues from your hair rub against your skin while you sleep, they can clog pores and cause acne. To reduce this risk, make sure to keep your pillowcase clean and secure your hair before hitting the pillow. Additionally, using a silk pillowcase can minimize friction and prevent oils from transferring to your skin, giving you a clearer complexion overnight.

04. Using Hair Products Incorrectly Can Lead to Breakouts

Using Hair Products Incorrectly Can Lead to Breakouts

Yes, some women can’t do without their trusted hair products. However, there’s a right way to use them to keep them from causing skin issues. To ensure your products stay only on your hair and don’t end up on your face, try this trick: instead of spraying hair products directly onto your hair, apply them with your fingers or a brush. This helps prevent excess product from settling on your forehead and clogging your pores. Additionally, always look for non-comedogenic hair care products, as these are less likely to cause breakouts.

One great option for maintaining a clean and healthy scalp is LBP Curry Leaves, Biotin & Mandarin Shampoo. This shampoo helps strengthen hair while keeping the scalp fresh and free from excessive oil buildup, reducing the chances of hair-related acne. It contains natural ingredients that nourish the scalp while maintaining a balanced oil level to prevent breakouts.

05. Dirty or Tight Hair Accessories May Be Causing Acne

Dirty or Tight Hair Accessories May Be Causing Acne

If you wear hair accessories like hats or bandanas, be mindful of how tight they are. Wearing them too tightly can clog pores around the hairline and contribute to acne. To prevent this, make sure your accessories aren’t too snug, allowing your skin to breathe. Additionally, it’s essential to wash your hair accessories regularly to remove the dirt, oil, and sweat that accumulate over time. Opt for breathable fabrics to reduce sweat buildup and skin irritation, keeping your scalp and skin clear.

06. Facial Hair Might Be Contributing to Your Breakouts

Facial Hair Might Be Contributing to Your Breakouts

Facial hair, especially when not properly cared for, can contribute to acne. The hair traps oils, dirt, and sweat on your skin, clogging pores and leading to breakouts, particularly along the jawline and chin. If you don’t cleanse thoroughly after wearing facial hair, these impurities can lead to inflammation and clogged pores, creating an ideal environment for acne to form. Regular washing of both your face and facial hair, along with using non-comedogenic products, can help prevent breakouts and keep your skin clear.

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Quick Checklist to Prevent Hair-Related Breakouts

Quick Checklist to Prevent Hair-Related Breakouts

To keep your skin clear while maintaining healthy hair, here’s a quick checklist to remember:

  • Do rinse your scalp after workouts to remove sweat, oils, and bacteria that can clog pores.
  • Don’t skip washing your face after touching your hair or adjusting your hairstyle to avoid transferring oils and dirt to your skin.
  • Do use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp without stripping moisture.
  • Don’t neglect facial hair care—wash and exfoliate facial hair regularly to prevent oil buildup and acne along the jawline.
  • Do avoid over-layering products in your hair, as this can cause buildup and transfer to your skin.
  • Don’t go to bed with dirty hair—make sure to wash it if you’ve used styling products or exposed it to pollutants.
  • Do apply non-comedogenic hair products that won’t clog your pores if your hair touches your skin.

FAQs

Q. Can hair cause pimples on the forehead?

A. Yes, oil, sweat, and product buildup from hair can clog pores on the forehead, leading to pimples. Keeping hair clean and away from the face helps prevent this.

Q. Does long hair cause pimples on the back?

A. Yes, long hair can trap sweat and bacteria, leading to back acne. Tying your hair up and washing it regularly can help.

Q. How do I prevent hair-related acne?

A. Wash your hair regularly, keep it away from your face while sleeping, use non-comedogenic hair products, and clean hair accessories frequently.

Q. Should I avoid using conditioner if I have acne-prone skin?

A. Not necessarily, but apply conditioner only to the ends of your hair and rinse thoroughly to prevent residue from touching your skin.

Q. Can dry shampoo cause acne?

A. Yes, excessive use of dry shampoo can lead to product buildup on the scalp, which may clog pores and cause breakouts. Use it sparingly and wash your hair regularly to prevent this.

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Hair & Acne Pimples Hair care tips Breakout Prevention
Hair & Acne Pimples Hair care tips Breakout Prevention
Keerat Kohli

Keerat Kohli

Keerat Kohli is a beauty and lifestyle writer who often boasts her expertise as the self-proclaimed beauty guru of her friend group. She specialises in all things content- from social media strategy to creation.