FACT CHECK: Are pimples a sign of lung, liver, or kidney disease?

CLAIM:

Pimples are caused by inflammation of the hair follicles and oil glands, usually due to clogged pores, excess oil production, bacterial growth, and hormonal factors. Acne is a skin condition and does not indicate problems in internal organs such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, or uterus.

FACT:

Scientific evidence shows that acne is a skin condition caused by clogged pores, excess oil production, bacteria, inflammation, and hormonal fluctuations - not diseases of internal organs like the lungs, liver, or kidneys. The location of pimples on the face does not reflect organ health. In case of severity, always consult a dermatologist. 

In a recent reel posted by dermatologist Dr Kanika Popli, who has over 48.4k followers on Instagram, the doctor responds to a widely circulating claim linking pimples on different parts of the face to problems in internal organs. 

In the reel, a video appears of a woman claiming that the location of pimples reflects the health of organs such as the stomach, lungs, uterus, and heart. She suggests that facial breakouts can signal internal uncleanliness, saying, “If your stomach is not clean, there are pimples here. If your lungs are not clean, there are pimples here. If your uterus is not clean, there are pimples here.” She also repeats a common myth associated with nose pimples, joking, “You know, pimple on your nose. We would say in school, someone has a crush on you.”

Reacting to this video, Dr Popli explains that pimples are not indicators of organ disease but are a dermatological condition caused by local skin processes. She clarifies that acne occurs due to inflammation of the pilosebaceous unit - the hair follicle and oil gland, often triggered by clogged pores, excess oil production, or bacterial growth. “In no way is it showing any lung, liver, or kidney problem,” she says, emphasising that such claims have no medical basis. 

While she notes that breakouts in certain areas, such as along the jawline, may sometimes be linked to hormonal factors, she adds that acne does not reflect the health of internal organs. She describes the idea of mapping pimples to organs as “a purely fake concept which people are showing on the net.”

The reel has gained over 1.24 lakh views and 1,482 likes, sparking conversations online about whether pimples can truly signal deeper health issues or if such claims are misleading myths circulating on social media.

Are pimples a sign of lung, liver, or kidney disease?

That recurring pimple may feel like it’s trying to tell you something. Traditional systems such as ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine link acne in specific facial areas to problems in internal organs. However, there is little to no scientific evidence supporting claims that, for example, ear acne is caused by kidney issues or cheek acne reflects liver problems. 

Acne on your cheeks?

Modern dermatology links cheek acne primarily to external factors that increase oil buildup, clog pores, or transfer bacteria to the skin. One of the most common causes is the use of dirty makeup brushes, pore-clogging cosmetics, or skincare products that block hair follicles. When pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and debris, they create an environment where acne-causing bacteria can grow.

Bacterial transfer from everyday objects and habits also plays a significant role. Mobile phones, for example, can accumulate bacteria such as E. coli and other microbes through frequent handling. Holding a phone against the face can transfer these bacteria to the skin, potentially triggering or worsening breakouts. Similarly, touching the face with unwashed hands, sleeping on unclean pillowcases, or friction from fabrics can contribute to acne, particularly if breakouts consistently appear on one side of the face.

Maintaining good hygiene can help reduce the risk. Regularly cleaning phones, washing pillowcases at least once a week, and using clean makeup tools can minimise bacterial transfer and prevent pore blockage. Choosing non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) skincare and cosmetic products can also help reduce cheek acne.

What does acne around your hairline mean?

Acne along the hairline and temples is most commonly linked to hair care products rather than internal health issues. Products such as hair oils, conditioners, gels, and styling creams can clog pores when they come into contact with the skin. This type of breakout is often referred to as pomade acne, and it occurs when pore-blocking ingredients trap oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria within hair follicles.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), oil-based or heavy hair products are a frequent trigger for hairline acne. When these products spread onto the forehead or temples, they can block pores and lead to inflammation and pimples.

Other contributing factors may include sweat buildup along the hairline, inadequate cleansing after using styling products, and friction from hats or headwear. Managing hairline acne typically involves switching to non-comedogenic or lightweight hair products, avoiding heavy oils near the scalp margin, and gently cleansing the skin to remove product residue.

Why do pimples appear on your jawline? 

Acne along the chin and jawline is commonly associated with hormonal fluctuations. Dermatologists explain that increased levels of androgens - hormones that stimulate oil production- can cause the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil. This can clog pores and lead to inflammation and breakouts. Such hormonal changes often occur during puberty, around the menstrual cycle, particularly in the days leading up to a period, and sometimes after starting or changing hormonal contraceptives.

Hormonal acne in this area tends to appear as deeper, more persistent pimples and may recur regularly. Conditions that affect hormone balance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also contribute to jawline acne in some individuals.

While diet is often discussed as a possible factor, scientific evidence shows only a modest association between certain foods and acne. Some studies suggest that high-glycaemic foods (such as refined sugars and processed carbohydrates) and dairy products may worsen acne in some people, possibly by influencing hormone levels and inflammation.

However, these effects vary between individuals and are not the primary cause in most cases.

Treatment typically focuses on managing oil production and hormonal influence. Dermatologists may recommend topical treatments, oral medications, or, in some cases, hormonal therapies such as certain oral contraceptives or anti-androgen medications. Consulting a dermatologist can help identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

What causes acne on your forehead and nose?

Breakouts in the T-zone - which includes the forehead and nose- are commonly linked to excess oil production. This area of the face has a higher concentration of sebaceous (oil) glands, making it more prone to clogged pores and acne.

Research also suggests that stress may play a role in worsening acne. A study conducted among male high school students in Singapore found that while stress did not directly increase oil production, higher stress levels were associated with more severe acne. Another study reported that individuals who experienced poor sleep or fatigue were more likely to have acne. These findings suggest that stress and lack of sleep may aggravate inflammation, potentially intensifying breakouts.

In addition to internal factors, everyday habits can contribute to forehead acne. People frequently touch their faces, transferring oil, dirt, and bacteria to the skin, which can clog pores. Hair products, sweat, and tight headwear may also trigger breakouts along the forehead.

Managing T-zone acne typically involves gentle cleansing, choosing products suited to your skin type, and using ingredients such as salicylic acid, which helps unclog pores. Reducing stress through relaxation techniques, maintaining consistent sleep patterns, and avoiding unnecessary face touching may also help minimise flare-ups.

This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS.