When we talk about acne, one of the areas that often gives people concern is the cheek. Cheek acne is quite common, impacting millions of people globally. It can appear as common pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, or cystic acne. Understanding its causes and how to properly manage it is essential in achieving clearer skin.
Understanding the Causes of Cheek Acne
Like acne that appears elsewhere on your body, cheek acne is caused by the pores on your skin becoming blocked by excess oils and dead skin cells. This blockage provides a breeding ground for the P.acnes bacteria, causing the body’s immune system to respond by causing inflammation, which we see as acne lesions.
Several factors could be contributing to the prevalence of cheek acne. One of the simplest to remedy is cleanliness. If you frequently touch or lean on your cheeks, you’re constantly depositing dirt, oil, and bacteria from your hands onto your face – all of which can enter your pores and cause pimples. Another external factor could be your mobile phone. When the surface of your mobile phone touches your cheek, it transfers a myriad of bacteria onto your skin.
Handling Cheek Acne
To treat and reduce cheek acne, take care of your skin by adopting a suitable skincare routine. Use non-comedogenic products that won’t block pores and are oil-free. Exfoliate your skin weekly to remove dead skin cells and dirt that can build up and sit on the surface of the skin.
Besides keeping your skin clean, it’s pivotal to maintain a holistic approach. Your diet directly affects your skin health. Eating food high in sugars and fats can increase sebum production, leading to more oil on the skin. Opting for a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can significantly improve your skin’s health.
How to Treat Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Less common but more severe than acne is a condition called hidradenitis suppurativa, wherein small, painful lumps form under the skin. While it does not directly relate to cheek acne, it’s crucial to distinguish between the two to ensure appropriate treatment.
Hidradenitis suppurativa can be managed based on its severity. Mild forms may be treated with prescribed antibacterial soaps or antibiotics. Topical creams can also be used to manage symptoms, while corticosteroids can be applied to reduce inflammation.
In more severe cases, doctors may recommend a procedure to drain or remove the abscesses surgically, or even use certain techniques to remove the affected skin. More recently, biologics, medications that target your immune system, have been approved for the treatment of moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa.
Preventing Cheek Acne
To prevent cheek acne, it is important to maintain a regular skincare routine. Keep your skin clean by washing it every morning and night. Do not forget about your phone – wipe the surface clean to avoid transferring bacteria onto your skin.
Furthermore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating a balanced diet can help reduce the chances of developing cheek acne. Regular exercise not only helps to reduce stress, but it also improves blood circulation and promotes healthy skin.
While dealing with cheek acne can be frustrating, understanding its causes, knowing how to handle it, and appreciating the roles of hygiene and lifestyle in its prevention can significantly help in managing this condition and achieving clearer skin.
