Why do I get pimples on cheeks after shaving?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 19 years old, and I have had tiny red pimples for a long time in the areas of the jawline and cheeks. I have already had acne in the past, but now I have practically nothing. I only have these small red pimples. They come because of shaving (I shave every day).

I have already tried many aftershaves and shaving gels, but the problem persists. Furthermore, I use a purifying foaming gel of "La Roche-posay" every day, plus the "Effaclar Mat" cream of the same brand twice a day (morning and night).

Also, once a week, I use the exfoliant of the "Avène" brand. These products have eliminated my acne, but not red pimples. Is there a cream to eliminate these "shaving pimples"?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. I reviewed your clinical pictures (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). Though it is not so evident, I strongly feel it is keratosis pilaris (KP). KP is a skin condition with a red lesion around the hair follicle opening due to the deposition of keratotic material inside.

The cause of this condition is not well known. It is common in the adolescent age group. Usually seen on arms, thighs, back, and face. This condition can be improved with medications.

I would suggest you use the following.

Use Salicylic acid face wash, wash your face thrice a day.
Using Ammonium lactate 12 % cream or lotion (Amylac or Amlactin) keeps skin moist. Use it on the cheeks in the morning after shaving.
Tretinoin 0.025 % gel peels the skin. You must apply pin-head size gel onto the affected cheek area at night, twice a week for two weeks, then increase gradually to four times a week.
Good sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 50. Apply to the full face 30 minutes before stepping out.

I hope this helps you.

Take care.