nose marks - #16988
I am really worried about these weird nose marks I’ve been noticing lately. A few weeks ago, I woke up and looked in the mirror and was like, what the heck is that? These little reddish marks right on the side of my nose. At first, I thought maybe it was just a pimple or something, but they haven’t gone away and it’s been kinda frustrating because they look like I’ve been picking at my nose or something. I haven’t! But it looks like that. I tried some over-the-counter cream for acne, hoping that would help with the nose marks, but it didn’t really do anything. They kinda feel rough to the touch, and sometimes when I smile or move my face a certain way, I can feel them stretching. It’s super annoying! I asked a friend and they mentioned their cousin had similar nose marks and got some sort of treatment from a dermatologist, but now I’m not sure if that’s the best route. Like, should I just wait and see if these stupid nose marks go away on their own or is it time to see a doc? Anyone experienced something similar or have any ideas how to deal with these nose marks? Would love any help!!
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Doctors’ responses
The reddish marks on your nose that feel rough and haven’t responded to acne cream could be a few different things. One possibility is that they might be related to seborrheic dermatitis, which is a common skin condition that can affect areas of the skin where sebaceous glands are prominent, like the sides of your nose. This condition often appears as red, irritated patches that might feel rough or flaky. Another possibility might be rosacea, which typically affects facial areas and may cause persistent redness and textural changes in the skin. It’s also possible that these marks are angiofibromas or even early signs of actinic keratosis, particularly if you have a history of significant sun exposure. Each of these conditions has its own treatment path. Given the persistence of the marks and the lack of improvement with over-the-counter acne treatment, it would be best to see a dermatologist. They can provide a proper examination, perhaps using a dermatoscope to look closely at the skin, and then offer a more definitive diagnosis. Utilizing tailored prescription treatments or topical therapies can effectively target these issues. In the meantime, reduce skin irritation by using gentle skin-care products, avoid harsh exfoliation, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent any UV-induced exacerbation or damage. While possibly tempting, avoid picking or using abrasive scrubs which may aggravate the condition. Prioritizing professional evaluation will guide you toward the most adequate solution and mitigate any progression or complications of the skin condition.
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