pimples pain on face - #16689
I am really struggling with this weird issue where I'm getting these painful pimples on my face, like, out of nowhere. I've always had pretty clear skin until a couple of months ago, and now it feels like every week there's a new batch. They hurt so much and sometimes even feel warm to the touch, like they might be infected or something. I tried all the usual stuff—washing my face more, using different over-the-counter treatments, but nothing seems to help. Last week, I went to see my dermatologist, and they told me it might be acne cysts, but they didn't really explain what that means for the painful pimples on my face. Like, are they different from regular pimples? Should I be worried about scarring? Or could it be related to stress, since I've had a lot going on? My friend said that certain foods could trigger them too, but I can't figure that out since my diet isn't wild or anything. I just want to know if anyone else has dealt with painful pimples on their face and what helped them. It's kinda frustrating! What treatments or remedies worked for you? Anything you tried that totally transformed your skin? Thanks for any advice!
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Doctors’ responses
Painful pimples on the face, like the ones you’re describing, could indeed be signs of cystic acne, which is a more severe form of acne. Cystic acne is different from regular pimples because it forms deep under the skin, often filled with pus, and can be quite painful or feel warm, as you noted. These can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, stress, and sometimes even dietary influences. The concern with cystic acne is that it’s more likely to cause scarring due to its depth and intensity, so it’s important to approach treatment with caution.
First, it might be beneficial to revisit your dermatologist to explore prescription treatments, such as oral antibiotics, retinoids, or hormonal therapies, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent new cysts from forming. In-office treatments like corticosteroid injections can quickly reduce inflammation and pain in cysts. Additionally, continue to use gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products to avoid further irritation. Over-washing or harsh products can sometimes exacerbate the problem.
Regarding lifestyle, managing stress through exercise, meditation, or even just prioritizing rest can positively impact your skin. While there’s mixed evidence about diet and acne, some people report improvement by reducing dairy or high-glycemic foods. Keeping a food diary to track any possible correlations could help determine if this applies to you.
For over-the-counter options that might help, consider benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid products. However, because your skin is already inflamed, test any new product on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t make your condition worse. It’s good to hear you’re already working with a dermatologist, as they can provide the most tailored advice for your condition, especially if persistent or not improving with initial treatments.
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