Help Needed: Strange Scabs Appearing on My Face
I’m a 19-year-old male, standing at 5 feet 8 inches and weighing 135 pounds, residing in North Carolina, USA. At the moment, I’m not on any medication and I smoke daily. Approximately three to four days ago, I began noticing unusual scabs or wounds emerging on my left cheek. In an attempt to address the issue, I’ve applied a facial wash containing 10% benzoyl peroxide a few times, hoping to eliminate any bacteria, but the situation doesn’t appear to be improving. While I switched to a different facial wash about two weeks ago (not the hydrogen peroxide variety), there hasn’t been any noticeable progress. Also, I must mention that I recently had unprotected intercourse with someone I’ve been seeing. I’m really worried about this; I just want to be reassured that it’s not herpes. If anyone could offer some guidance, I would greatly appreciate it! Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/20/2025, 4:10:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about new scabs on your face, especially given your recent sexual activity. While I can't diagnose any condition, I can provide some clarity and potential next steps.
Main Points:
- The scabs on your face could result from various causes, including skin irritation, infection, or other dermatological conditions.
- Applying benzoyl peroxide is typically effective for acne, but it may not help if the issue is unrelated to acne.
- While genital herpes is a possibility given unprotected intercourse, it's important to assess other causes of skin lesions first.
Explanation:
Scabs on the skin can be due to irritation (like from a new facial wash), a bacterial or fungal infection, or sometimes more complex skin conditions. Since you've been using benzoyl peroxide, it's essential to consider whether your skin could be reacting negatively to it or to other changes you've made in your skincare routine.
Your concern about herpes is valid, especially with unprotected sex, but skin lesions on the face aren’t typical for genital herpes. Herpes usually presents as clusters of blisters in affected areas. Still, without a medical evaluation, it's difficult to ascertain what these scabs might be.
Next Steps:
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Stop Using Harsh Products: Temporarily discontinue the use of benzoyl peroxide and any new skincare products you've recently tried. They might be exacerbating the issue.
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Keep the Area Clean: Wash your face gently with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or picking at the scabs, as this can lead to further irritation or infection.
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Moisturize: Use a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the area hydrated, which may aid in healing.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the scabs. Note the size, color, and if there is any swelling or discomfort.
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Assess Other Symptoms: If you notice additional symptoms, such as new lesions in other areas, fever, or pain, it could indicate a need for further evaluation.
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Consult with a Healthcare Provider: If the scabs do not improve within a week, or if you experience concerning symptoms, it would be prudent to seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform necessary examinations or tests, including testing for sexually transmitted infections if needed.
Your concerns are valid, and taking proactive steps will help clarify the situation. You're not alone in facing these worries. Focus on gentle care for your skin while observing any changes, and reach out for medical help if needed.
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