What's wrong with the red bumps on the temples

Red bumps on the temples may be related to folliculitis, acne, allergic reactions, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and other causes. Red lumps are usually manifested as local redness, swelling, itching, or pain, which can be relieved through local cleaning, medication treatment, and other methods.

1. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an inflammation caused by bacterial infection of hair follicles, and the temples are prone to bacterial growth due to dense hair and easy sweating. The common pathogenic bacteria are Staphylococcus aureus, which present as red papules or pustules accompanied by mild pain. Maintaining local cleanliness and dryness is key, avoid scratching with hands. When the symptoms are mild, iodine can be used for disinfection. For severe cases, follow the doctor's advice to apply mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream externally.

2. Acne

The temples belong to areas with dense distribution of sebaceous glands, and excessive oil secretion may lead to pore blockage and the formation of acne. Manifested as red inflammatory papules, with a possible white purulent head at the top. Daily intake of high sugar and high-fat foods should be reduced, and the use of thick hair gel products should be avoided. Adapalene gel can be used to regulate the metabolism of the cutin, or clindamycin phosphate gel can be used to control bacterial infection.

3. Allergic reactions

Contact with chemical substances such as hair dye and shampoo may cause contact allergies, manifested as well-defined erythema and dense small papules, accompanied by obvious itching. Immediately stop using suspicious products and rinse with clean water. Cold compress can alleviate discomfort. If the symptoms persist, follow the doctor's advice to take loratadine tablets orally, combined with topical application of hydrocortisone butyrate cream for anti-inflammatory and anti itching purposes.

4. Seborrheic dermatitis

Excessive reproduction of Malassezia may induce seborrheic dermatitis, with oily erythema and scales appearing at the temples, and occasional follicular papules. Adjust your schedule to reduce staying up late and avoid mental stress. Medicinal detergents containing ketoconazole can be used for cleaning, and in severe cases, it is necessary to follow the doctor's advice to use econazole cream for a short period of time to control inflammation.

5. Contact dermatitis

Long term wearing of eyeglass frames or hats may cause mechanical irritation due to friction, resulting in damage to the skin barrier at the temples and the appearance of red bumps. Manifested as patches with clear boundaries at the contact area, accompanied by a burning sensation. After eliminating the stimulus source, the symptoms can often be relieved on their own. A thin layer of erythromycin ointment can be applied to the damaged area to prevent infection, and the use of alcoholic irritants should be avoided.

Daily attention should be paid to cleaning the temples, choosing gentle and non irritating cleansing products, and avoiding the use of alcohol based toners. Reducing the intake of spicy and stimulating foods in diet and supplementing with more B vitamins and zinc elements can help with skin repair. Men should pay attention to tool disinfection when shaving, and women should not tie their hair too tightly. If the red bumps recur, expand in size, or are accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, it is necessary to seek timely medical attention at a dermatologist to investigate the possibility of fungal infection or immune related diseases. Keep the pillowcase clean during nighttime sleep and replace it 2-3 times a week.