Acne, an issue faced by a large part of the global population, is a skin condition that affects teenagers and adults alike. The cheeks, in particular, are a common site for acne due to the abundance of oil glands in this region of the face. This article delves into the anatomy of acne on cheeks, the reasons behind its occurrence, the various methods of treatment, and the assistance you can get from hidradenitis suppurativa specialists Los Angeles.
What Makes Acne Appear on Cheeks?
Acne on cheeks can be attributed to various factors including hormonal imbalance, stress, poor hygiene, and certain medications. During puberty, an increase in androgen hormones leads to the overproduction of sebum, clogging pores and leading to acne. Stress may stimulate the oil glands to produce even more sebum, exacerbating the problem. Poor hygiene may contribute to the buildup of bacteria, dead skin and oils leading to acne, while some drugs might induce acne as a side effect.
How Hidradenitis Suppurativa is Related to Acne
Acne and Hidradenitis Suppurativa, both skin conditions, have a number of similarities. Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition characterized by small, painful lumps under the skin that can break open, leading to the formation of tunnels under the skin over time. This condition is known to occur in places where skin rubs together, like the armpits or groin. However, it can also appear on the face, mainly along the jawline and cheeks, appearing similar to acne but far more painful.
Seeking Medical Advice
When over-the-counter treatments aren’t enough, it would be advised to seek medical advice for your cheek acne. Dermatologists can provide potent topical treatments, antibiotics, or isotretinoin, all of which are commonly prescribed for severe or persistent acne. However, for conditions like Hidradenitis Suppurativa, which presents symptoms similar to severe acne, it would be best to approach hidradenitis suppurativa specialists Los Angeles. These professionals are adept in diagnosing and managing the systemic nature of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, ensuring that your skin condition does not worsen.
Maintaining a Skin-Friendly Lifestyle
Besides medical advice and treatments, maintaining a skin-friendly lifestyle assists in regulating acne on cheeks. This includes keeping the face clean to minimize the risk of pore blockage, using non-comedogenic (non-pore-blocking) cosmetic products, reduce consumption of oily and junk foods, and staying hydrated throughout the day.
Possible Long-term Effects
Long-term, untreated cheek acne can lead to various problems such as hyperpigmentation and scarring. The former involves the darkening of the skin encompassing acne, while the latter happens when acne heals and leaves behind scarred tissue. Persistent acne on the cheeks could also be an indication of an underlying hormonal issue, especially in women, and should not be neglected.
Takeaway
Though acne on cheeks is common and often temporary, neglecting it and overlooking the possibility of more severe conditions like Hidradenitis Suppurativa can lead to secondary issues like hyperpigmentation and scarring. Medical assistance from dermatologists and, particularly, hidradenitis suppurativa specialists Los Angeles can be sought for persistent cases. Simultaneously, one needs to maintain a skin-friendly lifestyle to perceive an effective change in the health of their skin. Remember, your skin is a reflection of your overall wellbeing, so take care of your skin and it will shine back at you.