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Rashes can appear on the face for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, rashes are caused by allergies or food reactions. Other times, rashes are the result of an autoimmune condition or infection. If your facial rash doesn't clear up on its own after a few days, you may need medical attention.

A facial rash is an area of the skin that is irritated, inflamed, or even infected. Many things can cause a rash on the face, including allergies, an allergic reaction to medication or makeup, or a type of infection such as impetigo. It's important to take note of what causes your rash so you can try to avoid it in the future.

If the facial rash you're experiencing is due to an allergy or allergic reaction to a medication, over-the-counter antihistamines are usually recommended to help treat the symptoms. In addition to taking medications, it's important to avoid any allergen or ingredient that might be causing the reaction. For example, if you're having a reaction to an ingredient found in sunscreen, stop using the product until the reaction goes away. If you're having a reaction to a cosmetic product like a foundation or blush, try switching to a different brand until your symptoms subside.

Are Medicated Ointments a Good Idea for Facial Rashes?

Medicated ointments are often the go-to remedy for mild or moderate cases of skin inflammation, such as a rash of acne or eczema. But there are some drawbacks to these kinds of products, especially when using them on facial skin.

The thick texture of a medicated product can clog pores and block normal air flow to the skin. This can cause breakouts and even make other skin problems worse, including rosacea, an inflammatory scalp condition known as seborrheic dermatitis, or folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicles. Because these ointments are absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, they can also interfere with medications that are taken orally to treat problems such as high blood pressure.

The best way to keep your skin clear and healthy is to stick to gentle cleansers and avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. If skin irritation persists, however, it's best to speak to your dermatologist for help in picking a treatment that won't exacerbate already irritated facial skin.

Please reach out to our dental practice in Mission Viejo, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Lee, or call us at (949) 380-0315 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.