reason behind pimples on cheeks - #21517
I am really worried about these pimples on my cheeks that just won’t go away. Like, a month ago I noticed a few small bumps and thought it might just be from wearing a mask too much, but now I got them all over my cheeks! I tried switching my skincare products, thinking maybe it was the moisturizer, but no luck. I’ve been eating healthier too, mostly veggies and fruit, cutting down on sugar, but the pimples on my cheeks are still hangin’ around. They kinda itch sometimes and they leave marks. I went to a dermatologist but they said it might just be hormonal or something, but I’m not sure what that really means? Is there a specific reason behind pimples on cheeks like could it be something I’m doin' wrong? Or even stress? I’ve been super stressed out at work lately, pulling late nights, and maybe that’s triggering it?? Some friends mentioned it could be related to diet or even my gut health – like, is there a reason behind pimples on cheeks that could mean I need to change my eating habits even more? Any advice or insight on this would be super helpful. I'm just tired of dealing with it!
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Doctors' responses
Persistent cheek acne can be frustrating and understanding potential causes can help manage it better. Cheeks are a common zone for acne, affected often by various factors. Hormones frequently play a role, especially if you’re noticing cyclical changes or other hormonal signs like irregular periods or increased body hair. Hormonal fluctuations can stimulate oil production, causing clogged pores and resulting in pimples. Stress, as you mentioned, can exacerbate acne too because your body might produce more cortisol, a stress hormone that can lead to increased oil production. Your dietary changes sound quite beneficial but if you’re still consuming dairy or foods with high-glycemic index (like white bread, sugary snacks), these can exacerbate acne in some people. Foods affect individuals differently, so you may consider keeping a food diary to identify any correlations between your acne flare-ups and what you eat. Also yes, gut health can influence skin health, as an imbalance like dysbiosis could potentially fuel acne outbreaks. Consider consulting with a nutritionist to look into this more specifically. Beyond that, environmental factors like friction from masks (maskne) or resting your face on hands can introduce bacteria or irritate the skin. Try to wash your sheets and pillowcases regularly as well and keep your skin hydrated but not over-moisturized or over-exfoliated, which can irritate your skin further. Since the dermatologist suggested hormonal causes, options like topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid might be recommended; but if over-the-counter products haven’t worked, discuss prescription options. If it’s impacting you significantly still, there might be benefit in a consistent regimen or exploring treatments like hormonal therapy. Adapt your skincare to include products labeled non-comedogenic as they are less likely to clog pores. Remember, managing acne can take time and adjustments. If symptoms worsen or you notice significant discomfort, revisit your dermatology provider for a more tailored approach or additional testing to rule out other underlying issues.
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