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The “T” Area Acne Pattern
blackheads and whiteheads, also known as comedones, lodge themselves
mainly on the face, shoulders, back, chest and upper arms. This is the
specific part of the body that is troublesome and it is called the “T”
zone.
This zone is located on the face extending from the top middle part
of the forehead and across from left to right in the shape
of the crossbar of the “T”. The zone continues
down past the nose and onto the chin in the shape of the base
of a “T”.
Reasons for the outbreaks in this area are numerous
- Hands are not sterile and are constantly touching the face either
with purpose or automatically. People have no idea how many times
a day they touch their faces, but once aware of the condition begin
to break the habit. Touching or rubbing exacerbates acne on the face
and brings more outbreaks. Breaking the habit will reduce the amount
of acne and flare-ups.
- Stress is a factor in outbreaks and the first place you find a pimple
is either on the chin or nose. The “T” zone is most sensitive
and the flare-up will spread quickly throughout this area if not kept
clean.
- The “T” zone is where you will find most of your acne
due to the amount of oil and bacteria that collects there. The contour
of the face is enabling bacteria and oil to congregate in the crevices
and corners around the eyes, lips, chin and corners of the nose.
Almost everyone has more than one skin type in the “T”
zone.
Everyone’s skin is different and in the “T” zone
most people have all the skin types somewhere along the entire strip.
You will find a combination of oily, dry or normal skin. Controlling
acne in the zone may be cumbersome using different methods on various
spots, but in order to control outbreaks a routine needs to be followed.
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Basics to conquer unwanted flare-ups
- Wash your face gently using plenty of warm to hot water with extra
clean fingertips. Use a gentle soap such as Ivory. Be sure the soap
contains no oil-based ingredients. Wash at least twice a day. If you
finish your regimen with cold water, it will help shrink the pores
and close anything that is open.
- Pat your face with a clean towel or sterile gauze square after it
is washed. Rubbing will spread any infections as well as remove any
natural moisture that needs to remain on the face.
- There are antibacterial cleansers and sealers available across the
counter or from makeup specialists to use after washing. This activity
closes the pores and protects the face, back, arms or chest from the
environment.
- Hydrate your skin, especially in the winter to maintain moisture
and neutralize the skin types.
- If you have oily
skin, wipe the oil from the “T” zone daily.
- Do not carry the oils from your hair onto your face by
running your hands through the strands of hair and then
touching your face. Germs, skin flakes and bacteria rest
in your hair and can be transmitted to your sensitive acne
areas.
Over the counter control treatments:
You can keep your “T” zone under control by using over
the counter treatments specific to that area. Look at the ingredients
on the labels containing comedogenic components.
Using products containing glycolic acid in the “T”
zone at least every other night will reduce the oil and help neutralize
the multiple skin types. Your doctor or dermatologist can give you
more information about the “T” zone.
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