Ever wondered why you only get spots or breakouts in certain areas of the face only? Or why you only get a blasted zit at certain points in the month? Your skin is your largest organ and is essentially a window to what is going on inside. The skin releases toxins, blemishes and different textures which all relate to your diet, lifestyle and internal organs.
Well it seems it's not all down to mere coincidence... Caroline Frazer, Simple Skincare Expert and celebrity makeup artist says, "Like reflexology areas of the face can help give us information about what's going on in the body."
So what exactly do spots on certain areas mean? And once you've identified what could be the cause of blemishes and flare-ups, can you treat the cause to prevent them?
Bumpy forehead
'Areas of the face can help give us information about what's going on in the body'
Caroline says "spots can indicate an over-consumption of red meat, saturated fats, proteins and alcohol", so cut down on these food groups and the boozing. Try doing a bit of a detox; cutting out meat and booze in favour of fresh veggies, herbal teas and water. Also be wary of a heavy fringe: sweating and lots of styling products can cause spots.
Experts believe that your forehead can be broken down into sections- "The top part is related to the bladder, the middle is digestion and the lower part, which runs between your eyebrows is related to your liver so you'll often get spots here right after party season!" Try reducing stress, exercising and drinking water to keep spots at bay on your head.
Sore spots on the chin and upper lip
Few women don't get a spot once a month that makes your chin feel like its set to explode but ‘period spots' are not products of our paranoia, they really can be hormonally related. "Spots on the chin generally relates to hormonal fluctuations often at period or ovulation time." Oddly enough if you notice that you predominantly get spots on one side of your chin more than the other this is the side where the ovary is releasing the egg- amazing no?! Unfortunately there's little you can do about this, unless it's a prolific problem in which case discuss it with your doctor. If the spots are particularly large, sore or take a long time to heal you could have symptoms of a hormonal imbalance like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome- this affects 1 in 10 women in Britain. Try taking a vitamin B complex, which helps to balance hormones during the monthly cycle.
Spots on the cheeks
Spots here can be one of the tenderest areas to find a spot - and the hardest to deal with so try addressing the cause. Try not to squeeze cheek spots as the skin here is soft and sensitive- it may lead to scarring. "Spots on the cheeks may be the result of too much meat, sugar and dairy products" Caroline says. If this sounds like you get on the try sampling some veggie and vegan cuisine and replace the sugary treats for something naturally sweet like fruit or liquorish.
'Spots on the cheeks may be the result of too much meat, sugar and dairy products'
Spots on the jawline
Spots on the jawline can be painful and difficult to get to. Caroline thinks the cause could again be diet-related. "Spots on the jawline can indicate congestion in the large intestine, often caused by heavily processed foods." Processed foods can mean anything from ready meals to biscuits so think about what you're eating and try to stick to fresh ingredients when you can.
Spots on your nose
Spots on the nose are usually born out of clogged pores and blackheads. Try steaming your face and user a daily cleanser. Drinking water and exfoliating can also eliminate blackheads.
Follow our quick guide to beautiful skin
Get into a routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising. This will improve your skin immensely- choose gentle products if you have particularly sensitive or spot prone skin.
Always remove your make-up before bed! You may be tired or a little bit tipsy but you’ll skin will thank you in the morning.
Drink lots of water! 6 to 8 glasses per day should keep your complexion looking healthy.
Beware of your make-up and make-up brushes, clean them and update them regularly. Some make-up can block pores or produce excess oil- go to a make-up counter and ask for some tailor made advice.
Keep track of your monthly cycle and monitor your skin’s reaction if you are really suffering bypass over the counter products and see your GP.
Steer clear of over the counter skin remedies from the pharmacy if you are only having small or occasional breakouts- these products can be harsh and completely dry out your skin. Try using natural products like tea tree oil and witch hazel.
Take your vitamins on a daily basis. Vitamin B complex, Selenium and Vitamin E are all perfect for skin issues.
Sleep well and avoid stress.
'Try using natural products like tea tree oil and witch hazel'
Eat a fresh fruit and fibre based diet. Manuka honey, Apples and seeds are perfect.
By Emily Stockham