Forehead Acne Concerns
Greetings, I’m a 32-year-old male experiencing persistent acne on my forehead for the last 8 to 10 months. Initially, I noticed small clusters of acne on both the right and left sides, which are often itchy. I attempted to treat it using ketoconazole shampoo and benzoyl peroxide cream, under the impression that it might be fungal acne. However, it resurfaced after a few days, and now I'm uncertain about its nature. Currently, I follow a high-protein diet, and I take vitamins along with protein powder that contains creatine. I exercise regularly, but I've observed that the condition worsens and becomes more inflamed post-workout. I would appreciate any advice on how to eliminate this issue. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
3/24/2025, 7:10:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
Persistent forehead acne can be frustrating, and it's clear you're actively trying to manage it. The fact that you’ve been experiencing it for 8 to 10 months and that it worsens post-workout suggests that multiple factors may be at play, including possible friction, sweat, or an imbalance in skin care products. Let’s focus on some straightforward strategies to help tackle this issue.
Explanation:
Acne can result from various factors including hormonal changes, friction from hats or headbands, sweat buildup during workouts, and sometimes reactions to hair or skin products. Itchy acne clusters may indicate that your skin is reacting to certain products, hygiene practices, or conditions creating an environment for bacteria or excess oil.
Next Steps:
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Reassess Skincare and Hair Products:
- Swap your current products: Consider using non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) hair and skin products, especially if your protein powder or any other supplements might contain oils or additives that can cause breakouts.
- Patch test: Perform a patch test for any new product on a small area of your skin to check for reactions before using it more widely.
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Adjust Post-Workout Routine:
- Cleanse immediately: After exercising, wash your face and forehead with a gentle cleanser to remove sweat and any buildup of oils and dirt. Consider using a cleanser containing salicylic acid to help keep pores clear.
- Keep hair off the forehead: If you have long hair or wear hats, try to keep your forehead covered as little as possible, as hair oils can also contribute to acne.
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Moisturize:
- Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to maintain hydration without clogging your pores. Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial, even if you're dealing with acne.
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Monitor Diet and Supplements:
- If you suspect your high-protein diet or any supplements may be affecting your skin, consider reducing the amount of protein powder, especially those with additional ingredients like creatine. Try to monitor any changes in your skin's condition during this alteration.
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Consultation Consideration:
- If the acne does not improve with these changes in about 4-6 weeks, consider seeking advice from a dermatologist. They can provide tailored treatments like topical retinoids or other medications that might be more effective.
By following these steps and monitoring your skin's response, you should see improvement over time. Please feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need additional support!
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