What Is Subclinical Acne (& How To Get Rid Of It)?

If you recently started noticing small, flesh-colored bumps on your forehead, you might be dealing with subclinical acne.

Subclinical acne is not a term that’s frequently mentioned, and there isn’t much information about this condition online.

This type of acne doesn’t manifest the usual blackheads or whiteheads, but instead, it appears as tiny bumps with no head.

So, what is subclinical acne, and is there a way to get rid of it? Let’s find out below.

What Is Subclinical Acne?

Subclinical acne is a non-inflammatory form of acne that appears as flesh-colored bumps and makes the skin’s surface look and feel uneven without developing into inflamed cysts and pus-filled pimples.

Subclinical acne most commonly appears on the forehead but can also develop on the cheeks, nose, and chin, especially if these areas are oily.

What Causes Subclinical Acne?

Subclinical acne can caused by several external and internal factors, with excessive sebum production being one of the main causes.

Sebum is the waxy, oily substance released by the sebaceous glands that provides natural skin lubrication.

While sebum provides the skin with protection against external pathogens, accumulation of this waxy substance inside the pores can lead to overgrowth of bacteria, which can cause subclinical as well as inflammatory forms of acne, such as papules, pustules, and cysts.

Besides sebum, here are a few other potential causes of subclinical acne:

Comedogenic Ingredients in Cosmetics

Comedogenic ingredients in cosmetics are substances that can clog pores, leading to the formation of subclinical acne, as well as blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed pimples.

When products containing comedogenic ingredients are applied to the skin, they can create a barrier that traps sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria inside the pores.

This blockage can then lead to the formation of a comedo, which can appear as a whitehead or blackhead. If the comedo becomes infected with bacteria, it can become an inflamed pimple.

Some examples of comedogenic ingredients in cosmetics that can potentially cause subclinical acne are:

Coconut Oil: While it’s often praised for its moisturizing properties, coconut oil is highly comedogenic and can cause breakouts in individuals with acne-prone skin.

Sunflower Oil: Although rich in vitamins and minerals, sunflower oil is another comedogenic ingredient that can contribute to acne.

Isopropyl Myristate: This fatty acid is often used for its lubricating and texture-enhancing properties in cosmetics. However, it is considered highly comedogenic and problematic for acne-prone skin.

Isopropyl Isostearate: This synthetic oil is often used as an emollient in cosmetics. It’s known for its ability to soften and smooth the skin. However, it is considered comedogenic, with the potential to clog pores and cause acne, especially in individuals with acne-prone skin.

Lanolin: Derived from sheep’s wool, lanolin is a common ingredient in hair lotions and pomades. However, it’s known to be comedogenic and can trigger non-inflamed and inflamed forms of acne, including subclinical acne on the forehead.

Poor Hygiene

Poor hygiene can be another common factor that causes subclinical acne for many people.

This is because, during the day, our skin is exposed to pollution, dirt, and bacteria that mix with the sweat and oil on its surface and cause the pores to become clogged and develop comedones.

To maintain clear and healthy skin, it is crucial to cleanse your face at least once or twice daily.

This routine helps remove layers of dirt, excess oil, cosmetic residue, and other impurities from your skin’s surface, reducing the likelihood of pore blockage and subsequent development of subclinical acne.

Smoking

Smoking can be another common factor for the formation of subclinical acne for many people.

This is because tobacco contains substances that can alter the sebum composition in the skin, causing it to become oxidized and tougher, which means it will have a harder time traveling through the pores and to the skin’s surface.

Instead, the sebum will remain inside the pores, causing them to become clogged and develop both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne, such as blackheads, whiteheads, and subclinical acne.

Stress

Stress has long been suspected of inducing acne flare-ups due to the increased acne severity that has been associated with the spike of the hormone cortisol.

This hormone directly stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce excess sebum, clogging the pores and further acne flare-ups.

Additionally, some studies suggest that psychological stress can also slow the body’s repair process, as stress alters your immune system’s ability to heal wounds.

This means that acne can become more aggravated during prolonged times of stress, and the lesions will heal slower and are more likely to leave scars due to the prolonged inflammation that impacts cell health.

Additionally, stress can actively interfere with your daily routine, as many of us tend to skip our skincare regimens from time to time after a long, exhausting, and stressful day, which can further contribute to the formation of acne, including subclinical acne that occurs when the skin is not properly taken care of.

Diet

Processed foods such as sweets rapidly raise your blood sugar, thus contributing to excess production of the hormone insulin.

This directly causes increased secretion of androgen secretion, the main hormone that stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil and plays a role in acne development.

Therefore, if you notice that your acne flare-ups are becoming exacerbated when you tend to eat a lot of sugary foods, make sure to recognize this trigger and try to avoid it as much as possible.

Friction

Friction can be another contributing factor to the development of subclinical acne.

When there’s constant rubbing or pressure on the skin, it can lead to irritation and inflammation, causing the pores to become blocked, and leading to the formation of comedones, the small bumps seen in subclinical acne.

Additionally, tight accessories like athletic headbands, helmets, and caps can transfer sweat and bacteria onto the skin.

These elements are then pressed deeper into the pores due to the pressure from the accessories.

This process not only causes friction but also clogs the pores, which can subsequently lead to subclinical acne.

How To Get Rid Of Subclinical Acne?

Although subclinical acne is the least concerning type of acne and is typically easy to maintain and get rid of, it doesn’t mean it should be neglected, as it’s still a condition that has the potential to worsen over time.

So here are several easy solutions to get rid of subclinical acne:

Don’t Pick

Subclinical acne looks like rough, uneven bumps on the skin, making it seem easy to squeeze and remove.

Squeezing subclinical acne, which doesn’t contain pus, won’t “pop” like regular pimples and could harm your skin.

This can result in tearing and wounds susceptible to external pathogens, increasing the risk of inflammation and infection.

Additionally, popping your pimples can leave long-term damage and may result in scars.

This is because every time your skin is damaged, there is a possibility that as it heals, tissue will be lost.

And with the loss of tissue, the skin won’t heal properly, which will lead to depressed or pitted acne scars.

Moreover, popping a pimple can also lead to inflammation that may result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, which is a complete loss of pigment in the area of the injury.

Therefore, while you might be thinking that your skin will thank you for coaxing the cellular debris out of the pores, this is definitely not what happens in the deeper layers of your skin, and you are, essentially, causing damage on a deeper level that may leave permanent results behind.

Avoid Using Oils

Since the forehead is the area that tends to get oiliest throughout the day and subclinical acne is typically most abundant in the forehead, the last thing you want to do is apply oil in an attempt to soften it.

Due to their molecular sizes, oils cannot penetrate the skin, so they remain on the surface until they get pressed into the pores and clog them.

Additionally, creams, hair pomades, foundations, concealers, and even some powders that contain heavy emollients, oils, butters, etc., can also exacerbate subclinical acne, which is why it’s important to take special precautions with the products that come in touch with your face if you are prone to developing this condition.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation, the process of removing the top layer of dead skin cells from your skin, is an effective way to manage subclinical acne.

Subclinical acne is primarily caused by clogged pores due to excess oil and dead skin cells.

When you exfoliate, you unclog the pores by clearing away the buildup, which can prevent the formation of comedones – the small bumps that characterize subclinical acne.

In addition, exfoliation promotes skin renewal by stimulating the growth of new skin cells, leading to smoother, healthier skin over time.

It also enhances the effectiveness of other skincare products by allowing better absorption since there are fewer dead skin cells to act as a barrier.

Therefore, exfoliation should happen regularly if you have subclinical acne.

However, it’s important to exfoliate gently and not too frequently, as over-exfoliation can irritate the skin and potentially worsen acne.

Exfoliating 1-3 times per week is recommended, but this can vary depending on your skin type and sensitivity.

Hydrate

Toners and essences can help banish subclinical acne because they will keep the skin hydrated; therefore, the sebaceous glands will produce less pore-clogging oil.

Toners come in a liquid consistency and penetrate the skin more easily; therefore, a good toner that contains hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin can quickly bring your dull skin back to life in a matter of seconds.

On the other hand, essences are what follow a toner.

They typically have a slightly thicker consistency than a toner but feel more lightweight than a serum.

Essences are the hydrating layer that properly primes the skin to absorb your serums and creams.

Moreover, they give your skin an additional hydration shot following your toner.

While toners or essences are not an essential part of a skincare routine, and anyone can do without them, they are still the best means of giving your skin a quick shot of hydration.

Avoid Heavy Makeup

While you may want to cover acne and texture, the best option for your skin is to leave it as clean and protected as possible.

Turn to good skincare and sunscreen to protect you from daily pollutants while you give your skin a break from clogging foundations and heavy makeup.

Makeup plays a massive part in clogged pores.

Products are usually formulated with heavy alcohols and fragrances to make them smell nicer and last longer, and we have already discussed what these can do to your skin.

If you are dealing with subclinical acne, this may only worsen your situation, so giving your skin the needed break will improve your condition.

Best Products for Subclinical Acne

Subclinical acne is a condition that can be maintained with the right skincare routine.

Here are some of the best products for subclinical acne you should consider adding to your regimen:

Best Cleansers for Subclinical Acne

Here are the best cleansers for subclinical acne:

La Roche-Posay – Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser

Best for oily skin and subclinical acne.

The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a gel-based cleanser that lathers into a creamy foam and gently removes makeup, dirt, and impurities, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and clean.

Its key ingredients include ceramides to preserve the skin’s natural barrier and niacinamide to soothe the skin while also being free from clogging oils and emollients, which makes it perfect for oily skin dealing with subclinical acne.

Krave Beauty – Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser

Best daily face wash for dry and sensitive skin and subclinical acne.

The Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser by Krave Beauty is a gentle cleanser that contains soothing components, such as matcha, hemp seed, and vitamin B5, which strengthen the skin barrier and replenish lost hydration.

The cleanser has a light gel texture and is free from drying alcohol and irritating fragrance, making it suitable for dry and sensitive skin dealing with subclinical acne.

Best Toners for Subclinical Acne

Here are the best exfoliating toners for subclinical acne:

Vivant Skin Care – 3% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner

Best for oily skin and subclinical acne.

The Vivant 3% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner is a lightweight toner containing mandelic and lactic acid and enriched with antioxidants.

It effectively dissolves cellular debris and prevents breakouts, making it ideal for subclinical acne-prone skin.

With added niacinamide and witch hazel, it also brightens the complexion and refines pores, which makes it suitable for oily skin types prone to congestion.

Paula’s Choice – 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Best for dry and sensitive skin and subclinical acne.

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, formulated with salicylic acid and enriched with antioxidants, effectively dissolves cellular debris in pores, minimizing their appearance and promoting skin hydration.

The toner also has a nourishing consistency and leaves a radiant glow, making it an ideal solution for dry and sensitive skin prone to subclinical acne.

Best Serums for Subclinical Acne

Here are the best hydrating serums for subclinical acne:

SkinCeuticals – Hydrating B5 Gel

Best for oily skin and subclinical acne.

The SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel is an oil-free hydrating serum that combines vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid, the body’s natural hydrator, to bind moisture to the skin and restore radiance for a smoother complexion.

Its lightweight, non-greasy formula enhances the skin’s natural hydrating abilities, making it beneficial for oily skin and subclinical acne as it aids in hydration without clogging pores or adding excess oil, thus reducing the likelihood of breakouts.

Medik8 – Hydr8 B5 Intense Serum

Best for dry and sensitive skin and subclinical acne.

The Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Intense Serum is a supercharged hydrating serum enriched with Vitamin B5 and multi-weight hyaluronic acid, known for their potent hydration properties.

Its lightweight, silky-smooth but non-sticky formula and natural moisturizing factors make it ideal for dry and sensitive skin, as it locks in moisture and nourishes the skin without causing irritation.

Additionally, its ability to support the skin’s natural hyaluronic acid levels can prevent subclinical acne by maintaining optimal skin hydration.

Best Moisturizers for Subclinical Acne

Here are the best non-comedogenic moisturizers for subclinical acne:

PCA SKIN – Clearskin Moisturizer

Best for oily skin and subclinical acne.

The PCA SKIN Clearskin Moisturizer is a lightweight, nourishing moisturizer designed to hydrate, calm, and soothe normal to oily, breakout-prone, and sensitive skin.

Its unique blend of niacinamide, bisabolol, cucumber, and other targeted ingredients not only balances moisture levels but also provides exceptional calming benefits, making it an ideal choice for managing oily skin and subclinical acne due to preventing excess oil buildup inside the pores.

Obagi Medical – CLENZIderm M.D. Therapeutic Moisturizer 

Best for dry and sensitive skin and subclinical acne.

The Obagi Medical CLENZIderm M.D. Therapeutic Moisturizer is a glycerin-rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer that keeps skin hydrated and protected.

With a high concentration of 20% glycerin and soothing allantoin, this formula is exceptional for dry and sensitive skin, as it provides deep hydration, calms irritation from external factors, and helps maintain a healthy moisture balance, preventing subclinical acne.

Best Sunscreens for Subclinical Acne

Here are the best non-comedogenic sunscreens for subclinical acne:

Peter Thomas Roth – Water Drench Broad Spectrum SPF 45

The Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Hyaluronic Cloud Moisturizer is a non-greasy, cream-to-water sunscreen that boasts a potent 30% complex of hyaluronic acid, known for its exceptional hydrating properties.

This product is ideal for oily skin and subclinical acne as it helps to plump the look of skin with moisture, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, all without clogging pores or causing further breakouts.

La Roche-Posay – Anthelios AOX Antioxidant Serum SPF 50

Best for dry and sensitive skin and subclinical acne.

The Anthelios AOX Antioxidant Serum SPF 50 by La Roche-Posay is a potent, antioxidant-rich serum that combines broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and a high concentration of vitamin C.

This unique formula not only protects your skin from harmful UV rays but also provides a daily dose of antioxidants, making it ideal for dry and sensitive skin types prone to subclinical acne as it helps to neutralize free radicals, improve skin texture, and hydrate without causing irritation or clogging pores.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s The Best Treatment for Subclinical Acne?

Exfoliating acids such as salicylic or glycolic acid are the best treatments for subclinical acne.

This is because salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into the skin and clears out clogged pores, while glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid that removes dead skin cells from the skin’s surface to prevent accumulation and subclinical acne flare-ups. 

Is Subclinical Acne Hormonal?

Subclinical acne, or microcomedonal acne, can be triggered by hormonal changes in the body.

Certain hormonal changes, such as elevated levels of androgens, can cause an increase in sebum production, leading to clogged pores and the formation of subclinical acne. 

Is Subclinical Acne Bacterial or Fungal?

Subclinical acne is primarily caused by a buildup of sebum and dead skin cells in the pores, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.