Growning my first full beard; a few questions.

Hello,

I'm a 25 year old male, good health, living in fairly wet and dry weather in SF, and in the process of growing my first beard. I have a few skin related questions. Any assistance would be great!

1) On my right cheek, and a bit on my left, I have these small red patches on my skin which are all clusters together. These spots look like skin irritation, but to not itch or flake. They are becoming more noticeable each day. I am assuming these red spoches are from the new beard and dry weather, but any pointers, and if I should be worried about these spots, would be welcomed.

2) I read that Selsun Blue is good for an itchy new beard. I also have mild Tinea Versicolor so I frequently purchase Selsun Blue. Is this true that Selsun Blue is good for new beards, and maybe even those red patches?

Relatedly, I bought CVS brand Selsun Blue with Aloe. I never have had an issue before, but this off-brand SB tinted m skin blue! I'm worried this will cause some poisoning. Should I be concerned?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These skin patches can be due to dermatitis skin or irritated hair follicles due to beard growth. Regarding the skin discoloration, it looks like contact dermatitis. Take some antihistaminic like Benadryl or Claritin and apply some calamine lotion on the rash. Also wear cotton clothes and apply good quality moisturizers. If the symptoms persist then please get it examined from a dermatologist.

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.