What Causes Red Splotchy Spots On Face With White Heads?

Posted on Sun, 20 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 20 Apr 2014 Answered on

Sat, 10 May 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I recently have had red splotchy spots on face with white heads. Have tried exfoliating, moisturizing, cortaid, etc. before occurrence I seldom used product; most soap to wash in shower and alcohol if I got a pimple. Started to use products when I was trying to treat a red dry patch on cheek. My skin traditionally is oily.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Possible infected acne... Detailed Answer: Hi, I have gone through your photo, and noticed only the red splotchy spots; while the white heads were hardly to see. To my judgment, it might be infected acne. Usually, oily skin as yours gets very easily infected (white heads). In such cases, I usually prescribe: Step no.1: Wash your face with over-the-counter zolfo soap and warm water Step no.2: Rinse well first with warm water followed immediately with cold water Step no.3: Apply prescription antibiotic cream for up to 2 weeks. I suggest to discuss it further with a dermatologist to find a final solution to your red spots on face as you might need oral and/or local antibiotics (pills and/or cream). Hope it was of help! Let me know if you need further assistance! Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar