by Alexandra Nicole Nuralam

Here’s Why You’re Breaking Out Along Your Lip Line

Image via @skincaresavvy

Acne can pop up seemingly anywhere, but certain areas are definitely more frustrating—and more painful—than others. If you’ve had lip acne before, you’ll know what I’m talking about. Pesky little pimples (or big ones) that pop up on the corners of our mouths or along the lip line are downright annoying and painful. You can’t even stick an acne patch on it due to its awkward position.

Below, we share the best ways to tackle lip breakouts, and why you might be getting them.

What’s the deal with lip acne?

The border of the lip contains high numbers of oil glands, which is why pimples are common in this area. When these glands are blocked, oil gets trapped within the pores and promotes acne-causing bacteria, which lead to pimples. They tend to be more painful, because of the amount of movement that your lips and mouth are constantly making—talking, chewing, yawning.

Could lip gloss be the culprit?

It’s possible that your gloss is to blame for your blemishes since heavy lip products can clog the pores on the skin surrounding your lips.

If that doesn’t help, something else may be to blame, such as talking on the phone with the dirty receiver pressed against your mouth, or residual oil from eating food lingering around your lips. To bust those bumps, swipe your lip line with a salicylic acid toner or a pre-soaked pad after cleansing.

Caudalie Vinopure Clear Skin Purifying Toner, SGD35
Pixi Glow Tonic To-Go Exfoliating Toner Pads, SGD30

What are the best steps to take at the first signs of a lip pimple?

The same rules apply here, as with other forms of acne. Don’t pick. Use spot treatments, and if you’re a handsy person, opt for acne patches to keep bacteria off your pimple.

Indie Lee Blemish Lotion, SGD38
Rooki Beauty Mission Critical Acne Patch, SGD18

Is it OK to use concealer?

Covering up the red spots may be essential to you, especially if you have an important meeting. It’s fine to do so long as the pimple is not open and raw. It Cosmetics’ Bye Bye Breakout Full Treatment Concealer (SGD46) is a great option as it doubles as a spot treatment and a concealer, healing breakouts while covering them up.

It Cosmetics’ Bye Bye Breakout Full Treatment Concealer, SGD46

What are some ways to prevent lip acne?

1. Remove heavy makeup as soon as possible.

Philosophy Purity Made Simple High-Performance Waterproof Makeup Remover, SGD40

2. Stick with oil-free, non-comedogenic foundations, especially considering Singapore’s heat and humidity.

Laura Mercier Silk Crème Oil Free Photo Edition Foundation, SGD80

3. Try washing your face with a salicylic acid cleanser, which helps remove excess oil from the skin and exfoliate skin cells. Plus, spend a few more seconds washing your mouth area.

The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser, SGD22