red acne - #18997
I am really struggling with red acne and it's becoming such a frustration. Like, for the last couple of months, out of nowhere I started getting these painful bumps on my cheeks. At first, I thought it was just a phase or something, but then my sister pointed out how red and inflamed they look. I tried to cover them up with makeup, but it only makes them worse. I went to see a dermatologist last week who said it could be hormonal, but didn’t really give me a clear answer, and I'm not really on board with the meds they suggested. Sometimes I feel like I'm doing everything right – I wash my face twice daily, use non-comedogenic products, and I started drinking more water! But still, the red acne just won’t stop coming! Has anyone dealt with this? Like, how did you figure out what works? This red acne feels like it’s taking over my life! I'm even considering changing my diet, but what really helps? Any tips from people who've been through this would be a life saver. Just feeling lost and kind of hopeless about this whole thing.
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Doctors' responses
Understanding the sudden onset of red, inflamed acne can indeed be frustrating, particularly if it isn’t improving despite your efforts. When acne is red and painful, it suggests inflammation, which can stem from various factors like hormonal shifts, stress, or even changes in skincare routines. Since you mentioned that your dermatologist suggested it could be hormonal, it’s worth considering lifestyle factors that might be influencing your hormones. Pay close attention to your diet, as consuming high-glycemic foods can sometimes exacerbate acne. Foods like sweets, white bread, and sugary drinks can lead to spikes in blood sugar, which might increase sebum production and inflammation. Attempt to incorporate more low-glycemic foods like whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins into your meals to see if there’s any improvement over several weeks.
While you’re not keen on medications, over-the-counter topical treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may help, but start with lower concentrations to avoid irritation. Applying a pea-sized amount to the affected area once daily can be effective. Be gentle with your skin—avoid harsh scrubbing which could worsen redness and inflammation. Introducing new products one at a time every few weeks can help ascertain what’s working without overwhelming your skin. Adequate sleep and stress management (consider techniques like mindfulness or yoga) also play key roles in skin health. Monitor your skin’s response to these changes and maintain a consistent routine for several weeks to adequately assess effectiveness. If problems persist or worsen, a review with a trusted doctor could help refine your approach, including a discussion on alternative treatments. Always balance experimentation with care, ensuring symptoms don’t signal a more serious underlying issue.
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