Acne Between the Eyes
Acne lesions that crop up between the eyes are much like blemishes that develop in any other area of your face. They are a result of clogged pores triggering an inflammatory response in your body. This means that treatment follows along the same lines as acne on the nose, cheeks and chin.
Acne lesions that crop up between the eyes are much like blemishes that develop in any other area of your face. They are a result of clogged pores triggering an inflammatory response in your body. This means that treatment follows along the same lines as acne on the nose, cheeks and chin. A combination of self-care and topical medications is often all that's needed to improve the appearance of your skin.
Development
When excess sebum and dead skin collect in the pores between your eyes, they can form what's known as a soft plug, the Mayo Clinic says. This plug obstructs the pores and causes inflammation along the walls of your follicles, creating the papules, pustules and comedones often associated with acne. When an obstruction forms deep within the pore, it can lead to nodular or cystic acne, which are both severe forms of this skin condition.
Symptoms
Acne lesions between the eyes typically appear as small raised bumps on the skin. They can be red or red with a white center and are frequently tender or painful to the touch. Larger lumps are frequently an indication of a nodule or cyst.
Self Care
Like acne in other areas of the face, lesions between the eyes can respond favorably to self-care measures. The Mayo Clinic recommends washing the face with warm water and a gentle cleanser at least once a day. Applying an over-the-counter acne cream containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid is also beneficial. Topical creams with other active ingredients, such as azelaic acid, aluminum chloride, resorcinol, sulfur or lactic acid, may also provide positive results.
Professional Care
Sometimes, self-care measures aren't enough to heal acne lesions between the eyes, and you'll need to consult a doctor or dermatologist for a more aggressive form of treatment. One of the more popular acne treatments is a topical retinoid, which reduces the blockage affecting the pores, notes the American Academy of Dermatology. It's applied before bedtime each evening to improve your complexion. Antibiotics are often used in conjunction with this prescription medication to increase its efficacy.
Prevention
With acne lesions between the eyes, it's also important to pay attention to what comes into contact with the skin. The bridges of sunglasses or eyeglasses can trap dead skin and excess oil within the pores, thereby contributing to acne. Even bangs that rest along the brows can trigger a breakout between the eyes. Women should take note of their cosmetics. Oil-based foundations can lead to clogged pores. Leaving makeup on overnight can also clog the pores, cautions the American Academy of Dermatology. Simply wash the face with a gentle cleanser before bedtime.