why am i getting pimples on my cheeks - #19315
I am seriously confused about why am I getting pimples on my cheeks out of nowhere. Like, I’m not even a teenager anymore! For the last month, I’ve noticed these weird, painful zits popping up. I wash my face twice a day, I use gentle products, and I thought I was doing everything right! It started just with one or two, but now it's like every time I look in the mirror, there’s a new cluster of them. I can't remember changing my skincare routine or eating anything drastically different. I even tried cutting out dairy, thinking maybe it was that. Also, I’m stressed with work, but I always thought stress didn't really show on my skin like that. Is this hormonal? I read somewhere that different areas indicate different issues, so why am I getting pimples on my cheeks? I’ve even considered if it's my pillowcase or maybe the climate change cause I just traveled. I'm all over the place trying to figure out what is triggering this! Any thoughts or should I just go visit a dermatologist? I'm worried this could get worse!
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Doctors' responses
It’s understandable why you’d be confused and frustrated with these unexpected breakouts. Adult acne is quite common, and there are a variety of factors that could be contributing to the pimples on your cheeks. While you’re doing a good job with your skincare routine, there might be a few angles to consider. First, hormonal fluctuations are a common culprit, even outside of teenage years—this can happen due to stress or changes in your contraceptive methods, among others. Stress can increase cortisol levels, which might result in more oil production and subsequent breakouts. Your recent travel and climate changes could also play a role; different environments can impact skin’s oil production and moisture balance. The change of environment exposes your skin to different humidity levels, pollutants, and even water quality, which can trigger pimples. As for your pillowcase idea, it’s valid—any bacteria or oil accumulated can transfer to your face, so changing pillowcases regularly is a good practice. You’re already doing well avoiding dairy, as it can be a trigger for some people. However, considering the persistence and spread, it might be a good idea to consult a dermatologist. They can provide a more tailored assessment and treatment options, such as topical or oral medications if necessary. Seeing a specialist could prevent potential scarring or worsening of the acne. In the meantime, continue with a gentle skincare routine and minimize touching your face. Avoid harsh scrubs or new products, as they can irritate or worsen the condition.
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