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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Quit Smoking, Outbreak Of Spots On Face. How To Prevent Them?

Hi, I have started to quit smoking for the 2nd time, and it has only been 2 days, however I am already seeing spots on my face. I am only concerned as the 1st time I tried to quit, I lasted about 2 weeks, but had an outbreak of spots for 6 months, So is there anything I can do to prevent a potential 6 months plus of bad skin?

Many thanks
posted on Fri, 25 Oct 2013
Twitter Sat, 26 Oct 2013 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 28 Oct 2013 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Congratulations on trying to stop smoking, I hope you are able to succeed.

Some persons develop acne when they stop smoking. The exact reason is unclear. Acne is typically caused by 4 factors:
(1) the presence of a particular bacteria on the skin
(2)inflammation of the skin
(3)increased production of some particular skin cells causing blockage of the follicles
(4) excess production of sebum (oily waxy substance)

If you use treatment that addresses these areas then there should be a decrease in the break outs.

Benzoyl peroxide helps to unplug the follicles and also reduce inflammation. It may also kill the bacteria. It can come as a cream, lotion or face wash.

The use of a topical antibiotic such as clindamycin may also help.

If the lesions persist then you may want to consider visiting a dermatologist.

I hope this helps
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Quit Smoking, Outbreak Of Spots On Face. How To Prevent Them?

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Congratulations on trying to stop smoking, I hope you are able to succeed. Some persons develop acne when they stop smoking. The exact reason is unclear. Acne is typically caused by 4 factors: (1) the presence of a particular bacteria on the skin (2)inflammation of the skin (3)increased production of some particular skin cells causing blockage of the follicles (4) excess production of sebum (oily waxy substance) If you use treatment that addresses these areas then there should be a decrease in the break outs. Benzoyl peroxide helps to unplug the follicles and also reduce inflammation. It may also kill the bacteria. It can come as a cream, lotion or face wash. The use of a topical antibiotic such as clindamycin may also help. If the lesions persist then you may want to consider visiting a dermatologist. I hope this helps