Is acne a sign of poor health?

Acne is a common skin condition that affects many men and women at some point in their lives. For many, the transition into puberty can cause unwanted flareups of acne, while others may deal with stubborn acne throughout their 20’s, 30’s, and even their 40’s. Dr. Michael Scannon and the associates at Florida Westcoast Skin and Cancer Center encourage patients to visit the office to learn about acne clearing solutions. While we often think that acne is linked to poor health or skincare habits, oftentimes it can be linked to medical conditions elsewhere in the body. The location and severity of acne can be an indication of the cause of acne.

Below are several of the areas of the face and body where acne can persist, and the reasons behind them! 

•         Forehead acne – acne present on the forehead may be a signs of stress or poor digestive issues. Getting enough sleep, eating a proper diet, and managing stress levels in a healthy way might improve acne in this area. Additionally, acne in this area may also be caused by hair products, hats, and bangs which can cause excess clogging of the pores.
•         Cheek acne – acne present near the top of the cheeks might represent a respiratory system issue. Anyone who is in an area where the air might be impure will want to pay close attention to cleansing regularly to keep pores from clogging. Using an air purifier can also help with cheek pimples.
•         T-Zone acne – acne present along the T-zone may indicate food allergens or gastrointestinal imbalances. Eating a proper diet with more leafy greens can improve complexion in this area. Acne present specifically on the nose is also linked to the kidney and liver.
•         Chin acne – acne along the jawline and chin are often related to hormonal imbalances. Many women will have a flareup of chin and jaw acne in conjunction with their menstrual cycle. Products such as birth control can help balance hormones and reduce acne in this area.
•         Body acne – acne may also present itself on the back, arms, and even the thighs. These are often caused by hormonal fluctuations as well as genetics. These areas are often irritated by clothing as well, which can make acne worse. Use an appropriate shower gel and lotion to reduce acne on the body, and wear cotton clothes to allow the skin to breathe during the hot summer months.

Are you struggling with acne? 

If you are unhappy with the results achieved with over-the-counter products to control your acne and are ready to work with medical professionals to find serious results, we encourage you to call the Florida Westcoast Skin and Cancer Center at (813) 877-4811. The office is conveniently located at 4200 North Armenia Avenue, Suite 1 and 2, and accepts new patients in and around the community of Tampa, Florida.