acne or acne like bumps?

[nepal12]

hey,
my forehead has numerous acne like red bumps, how would do know its acne or not? i have had them since 3 months? can this be a result of too much products? like face wash,mosturizers coz i used it a lot. i used to have clear skin until i started using those products three months ago. and i used a lot? how can this be treated. my bumps look red or skin coloured(very small)? can hydrocostrosine 1% treat this or will it cause acne?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I cannot confirm a diagnosis without examination but it can be due to contact dermatitis to the cosmetics,acne or due to blockage of the sebaceous glands due to cosmetics or dandruff in hair(if you have any).

Acne is due to an overactivity and plugging of the oil glands.The main cause of acne is increased levels of hormones

Avoid using any lotions and creams over the face for the meantime. Wash your face with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Pat your face dry and do not rub it.Avoid picking or pressing the acne.You can also use Benzoyl peroxide 5% lotion or gel once at bedtime. An amount of lotion the size of a pea should be enough to cover most of your face. If your skin becomes red or peels, you are using too much of the medicine or applying it too often.

If the symptoms persist then pls get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.