A Straightforward Guide to Facial Sores
Facial sores are a frequent problem for many people. They are caused by various reasons, and may go away on their own or require treatment. Although they are embarrassing and painful to deal with, you may be able to help prevent future facial sores by identifying the cause and proper treatment.
Acne
Acne is by far the most common cause of skin blemishes resulting in sores. Severe cases of acne may result in large, inflamed zits. Pus can sometimes leak from these, adding to the unsightly appearance and aggravation for the sufferer. Even mild acne can result in scabs, sores, and scars if the pimples and occasional zits are picked at.
Depending on your biophysics and the severity of your acne, there are many ways to help reduce the appearance of zits and sores. For starters, don’t pick at them. It may be tempting to pop a zit, but unless it has a whitehead don’t touch it. Wash your face regularly with an antibacterial soap as well. This can help kill off the bacteria and oils that can clog your pores and form the pimples in the first place.
Do not over-wash though as this can actually cause more breakouts due to your skin being irritated by friction and harsh soaps. Pay attention to the cleansers out on the market and choose one for your skin type. A dermatologist may also have suggestions for you and can prescribe medicated soaps and cleansers if needed. Remember, acne usually fades away once you reach your 20s. You may just have to wait a few years.
Cold Sores
If you notice occasional flare-ups of blisters near your mouth that turn into weeping ulcers and ultimately dry out and scab over, it is likely that you are experiencing cold sores. These can be painful and unfortunately easy to trigger. Cold weather, stress, and touching your face with dirty hands can all lead to that familiar tingle beneath the skin that inevitably turns into a sore.
Thankfully, these are fairly easy to treat and there are several cold sore medications available on the market today. It is recommended that you keep your hands clean and wash them often, preferably with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. In addition to this, taking a daily vitamin can help boost your immunity and prevent frequent breakouts.
Some natural approaches are so effective that that can stop a cold sore from forming completely. Aloe is a wonderful preventative measure. Simply rub aloe or aloe infused creams on areas that commonly get cold sores, or on the cold sore itself. Rubbing mint on a cold sore can help get rid of it in less than 24 hours. Additionally, adding sage to your tea can assist in expediting the healing time of a cold sore.
Eczema
Eczema is another cause of facial sores. Although its most common symptoms are rashes, patches of itchy skin, and flaking, severe cases can come with cracked skin that bleeds and weeps a clear fluid. This can be very painful as well as unsightly, particularly if it occurs on the face. Thankfully, however, eczema generally appears on the neck, hands, and limbs.
Since eczema is related to dry skin, it stands to reason that one of the ways it can be suppressed is by moisturizing. If you suffer from eczema or believe you might be developing it, moisturize your skin at least twice a day and avoid scratching at your skin. If you simply cannot resist, then do not use your nails; rub with the pads of your fingers instead.
A dermatologist will be able to offer guidance that is tailor made for your particular case, so if frequent flare-ups are plaguing you, make an appointment or get a referral from your physician.