Spot on face - #12021
I am super worried because I've got this weird spot on my face that's just shown up in the last week or so. At first, I thought it was just a pimple or something but now it's kinda turning red and looks more like a rash or an irritated spot on my face. I've tried some over-the-counter creams, but nothing seems to work and honestly, I keep touching it obsessively, which I know probably doesn't help. The spot on my face is slightly itchy, which makes me wonder if it could be an allergic reaction to something, but I can't pinpoint what it could be. I haven't changed any products or foods and I’ve been very careful lately. My friend said it might just be stress — I’ve had a bunch of deadlines lately. Has anyone experienced something like this? How long did it take for the spot on your face to go away? Should I see a dermatologist or is it okay to ride it out for now? I'm feeling really self-conscious about it, like, should I cover it up with makeup or just leave it be? The spot seems to have a mind of its own! It’s just frustrating. Any advice would really help!
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Doctors’ responses
It sounds like the spot on your face could be a few things, ranging from a simple pimple to something like contact dermatitis, where your skin reacts to an irritant. Since you’ve mentioned it’s itchy and turning red, consider the possibility of an allergic reaction, even if you haven’t changed products or foods—sometimes reactions can occur unexpectedly to long-used items due to accumulated sensitivity. Stress can exacerbate skin issues, although it’s not typically a direct cause of new skin rashes. Continuing to touch the spot might prolong irritation or introduce new bacteria, which can hinder recovery. For now, avoid touching it excessively, and stick to gentle, fragrance-free skincare products that don’t worsen your symptoms. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help with itching, but use it sparingly and for a short duration to avoid thinning of the skin. Ensure your makeup is oil-free and non-comedogenic if you choose to cover the spot, and remove it thoroughly at the end of the day. Keep an eye on any changes; if it doesn’t improve, worsens, or you notice any other concerning symptoms like oozing, blistering, or spreading, it’s wise to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. They can provide a more specific diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, ensuring you’re addressing the root cause safely. Remember, it’s impossible to diagnose skin issues precisely without a visual inspection by a professional, so don’t hesitate to seek medical evaluation if you’re worried.
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