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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #18660
69 days ago
142

acne on cheeks - #18660

Tanmay

I am really stressing about this acne on cheeks situation! Ugh, it all started a few months ago when I noticed these red bumps popping up, and at first, I thought it was just a one-time thing, you know? But no, it’s become pretty constant. I’ve tried changing my skincare routine a million times but it doesn't seem to help at all! The acne on cheeks is really frustrating because I never really dealt with bad skin before. I've been using cleansers, moisturizers, even those spot treatments, and still, nothing really clears it up. Sometimes, the acne gets painful and irritated, and I can't help but pick at it which I know is super bad. I went to a derm who suggested some topical creams, but honestly, they don’t seem to do much. I read online that stress and diet could be a factor too? Like what if the pizza binge last weekend was the culprit? Any thoughts on how to really tackle this acne on cheeks situation? Like, is it just hormonal or something? Should I try something totally different? Just feeling kind of lost here and any tips or insights would be killer!

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Doctors' responses

When dealing with persistent acne, especially focused on the cheeks, it’s essential to consider a combination of factors that could be contributing. First, let’s talk lifestyle changes: diet and stress can indeed play a role. High-glycemic foods, like sugary treats and processed carbohydrates, can exacerbate acne. Try integrating more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet to see if it makes a difference over a few weeks. Hydration is also key, so upping your water intake is a good move. Stress management is equally important since stress hormones can lead to breakouts, so finding techniques like meditation, regular exercise, or even just some downtime might help. Now, about your skincare routine– it’s possible that frequent changes have disrupted your skin’s balance. Consider sticking with a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cleanser and moisturizer daily. Consistency is key. Additionally, look for products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which target acne-causing bacteria and help clear pores. If hormonal fluctuations are suspected, sometimes indicated by the onset of periods worsening acne or it being cyclical, it might be worth revisiting with a healthcare provider about hormonal treatments like birth control pills or spironolactone. Be cautious not to over-exfoliate or overtreat the area, as that could worsen irritation. It’s important not to pick at your skin as it can cause scarring and further irritation– try keeping your hands busy to break this habit. Finally, while your dermatologist’s creams didn’t seem effective, sometimes it takes several weeks to notice a difference, so patience is vital. If things haven’t improved with the strategies mentioned or if acne becomes severely uncomfortable or cystic, reaching out to a dermatologist again for potentially new treatment regimens may be worth exploring. Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms like rapid enlargement, pain, or if acne is spreading significantly, as these would necessitate prompt review.

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