Spots come and go, but what do you do if spots keep popping up in the same area all the time? It’s very common to get spots on your cheeks, but why? Express.co.uk chatted to world-leading Aesthetic Doctor and Global Lecturer in beauty and wellbeing Dr Jonquille Chantrey to find out the meaning behind spots on your cheeks.
Face mapping is the idea that different areas of your face become spotty for different reasons.
While many people believe that things like hormones and diet can bring spots out one one area of your face, this isn’t exactly true.
Dr Chantrey said: “There is little scientific evidence to support definitive causes to specific distributions of acne.”
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Spots can occur in any region for a range of reasons, including:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetic factors
- Dietary influences
- Poor gut function
- Stress
- Inappropriate topical skincare
Dr Chantrey said: “Often there is a combination of a number of these factors and this is why I strongly encourage the advice of a medical skin care professional who can take into account all of these elements to guide the patient.”
What YOUR spotty cheeks mean
While there isn’t much evidence for face mapping, spots on your cheeks could be down to acne mechanica.
Acne mechanica is a phenomenon related to repeated friction in a certain area that leads to acne.
Dr Chantrey said: “I see this quite commonly, as the cheeks are an area where a patient might always hold their mobile phone.
“Also, your sleep position can contribute to this, thanks to the friction of your face against the pillowcase.
“Bacteria build up on phones and pillowcases can also lead to increased bacteria in direct contact with the skin, causing spots to appear.”
DON’T MISS…
Sudocrem uses: 8 different uses for the favourite nappy rash cream [INFORMER]
High cholesterol diet: The 3 foods that lower your cholesterol [INSIGHT]
Blood clot symptoms: Two lesser-known warning symptoms [EXPLAINER]
How to treat spots on cheeks
Figuring out the cause of your spotty cheeks is essential if you want to beat them.
Dr Chantrey advised: “Change your pillowcases frequently, clean your phone and consider the use of hands-free rather than holding your phone to your cheek.
“There is also an increase in acne to the cheeks and chin with the use of masks, so try to use natural fibre masks that you clean after each use.”
For any area of the face, Dr Chantrey advises a similar approach to spots.
She explained: “I would always recommend a bespoke skincare protocol, a Theraclear course and stress management.
“You should also try to reduce your dairy and sugar intake.”
Depending upon the severity and cause of the acne, a regimen that treats and protects the skin, according to Dr Chantrey, should include:
- Cleanser
- Toner
- Exfoliation
- Antioxidant serum
- Sunscreen
- Vitamin A derivative such as retinol or retinoic acid
Source: Read Full Article