If you’ve only had your eyeglasses for a few weeks and you start getting acne where the glasses come in contact with your face, don’t worry – it’s a fairly common occurrence. In today’s post, local eye doctor Joel H. McGahen OD shares tips on how to prevent breakouts around your eyeglasses.
How Glasses Cause Acne
The acne that forms under eyeglasses is acne mechanica, a type of acne formed when an object – in this case, eyeglasses – constantly pushes down the skin. This kind of pressure prevents skin cells from shedding normally, and instead clogs the pores and leads to acne. Oily skin and wearing thicker makeup can also contribute to acne formation in these areas. Acne mechanica can also form on other parts of the body where clothing or accessories trap heat and sweat.
How to Deal With Acne Around Your Eyeglasses
Fortunately, acne around the eyeglasses can be treated. Here are some of our tips on how to handle it:
- Have your glasses adjusted. A properly fitted pair of eyeglasses should sit on your face comfortably. If you find yourself pushing up your eyeglasses frequently or if the frames touch your face, have your eyeglasses adjusted at the eye care center where you had them made.
- Keep your glasses clean. Make it a point to clean your glasses every day. Wipe down the parts of the eyeglasses that touch your face with an alcohol wipe.
- Use over-the-counter treatment. Just as important is keeping the affected skin clean. Over-the-counter products like acne wash with salicylic acid can help manage mild cases of acne, while ointments that also contain salicylic acid, as well as benzoyl peroxide, can help treat specific acne bumps. Makeup residue can also clog your pores, and using makeup remover before cleansing can help keep your pores clear.
- Visit your dermatologist. If acne persists even if you’re keeping your face and eyeglasses clean, it’s best to talk to your dermatologist. They may be able to prescribe medication that can take better care of your skin.
Joel H. McGahen OD is a trusted provider of eye care services in Shippensburg and Greencastle, PA. Give us a call at (717) 264-4012 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
