What are these white headed breakouts I’m getting every few weeks which aren't acne? (Photos)

Question

HelloI am desperate to find the answer to this. For the last four months I have been having these random breakouts or flare ups every 2/3 weeks where overnight I will come up with about 50-80 tiny white headed pimples on both cheeks. They all come up at once and then go away after five days. My skin then returns to being completely clear. The it happens again after 2/3 weeks. I used to suffer from acne years ago. this isn’t like “normal” acne and looks like papulopastular rosacea/folliculitis

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For unique cases where a variety of modalities could be used to treat the condition, I would suggest an in-person or virtual consultation to develop a custom and effective treatment plan.  It is difficult to precisely define the best option without collecting the same information. I suggest reaching out to an expert for a consultation with surgical and non-surgical methods to get a comprehensive option. Best, Dr. Emer.

Danielle Shanley, MD · Answer

If you have been experiencing symptoms for more than three weeks, its best to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. A dermatologist will be able to accurately diagnose the type of acne you are experiencing. Based on your photos and symptoms, it's possible that this is a case of fungal acne. This is easily treatable with over-the-counter or a prescribed topical-antifungal medication.

What are these white headed breakouts I’m getting every few weeks which aren't acne? (Photos)

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What are these white headed breakouts I’m getting every few weeks which aren't acne? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.