Facial Redness and bumps

I am 24 years old and have eczema and allergies. I am very careful about what i use on my skin because it is very sensitive. Over the past few months i have noticed the coming and going of redness and raised bumps on the apples of the cheeks.I can't seem to find a pattern of when it comes and goes. It doesnt look like eczema or dried skin and they arent pimples. It probably wouldn't bother me, but other people are noticing and I havent changed and makeups or lotions. The only thing i have found to work is my prescription eczema cream, but I don't want to keep using it on my face because it contains steroids. Any ideas?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to contact dermatitis or rosacea. Rosacea is a cutaneous disorder of the central part of the face , such as forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. Pimples or acne are sometimes included as part of the definition. Avoiding rosacea triggers, such as caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol, also may help clear the skin. Also use of antibiotic creams, antihistaminics, sun screens and tacrolimus(available by prescription) helps but consultation of a dermatologist is required first.

I would suggest you to consult a dermatologist and get these possibilities evaluated. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.