acne on one side

Overview

Acne on one side of the face is when pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or painful bumps mostly appear on just one cheek, jawline, forehead, or chin, while the other side looks clearer. This can happen for many reasons, such as how you sleep, how you hold your phone, or small habits you may not notice.

Yes, it is very common. Many people notice acne appearing more on one side of their face at some point in their lives.

It can affect anyone, but it is most common in teenagers and young adults. It can also happen to people in their 30s and 40s, especially women around their menstrual periods or during times of stress.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads mostly on one side of your face
• Red or tender bumps on the cheek, jawline, chin, or forehead
• Clogged pores that look like small dark bumps
• In some cases, tender lumps under the skin

Symptoms in children

• Children may get acne on one side if they often sleep with their hand pressed against their face, or if they use a phone or tablet that rests on one cheek. Their skin can also react to certain hair or skin products.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, acne on one side is often linked to pressure or rubbing from a phone, hand, pillow, or even a shoulder strap. It can also be related to hormone changes, stress, or skin-care products that block pores.

Causes

Main causes

• Sleeping or resting your face on the same side every night
• Resting your face on your hand throughout the day
• Holding a phone against one side of your face
• Sweat, hats, helmets, or face masks that rub against one side
• Using hair or skin products that block pores on that side

Risk factors

• Hormone changes during puberty, periods, or pregnancy
• Stress
• Using oily or pore-blocking skin and hair products
• A family history of acne
• Activities that make you sweat and create friction on your face

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a very large, tender, red lump that may be infected, or if acne is causing severe pain, please seek medical care the same day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your acne is persistent, causing you worry, affecting your mood, leaving marks or scars, or not improving with gentle self-care, make a routine appointment with a healthcare provider.
• If you are unsure how to care for your skin or which products to use, a doctor or pharmacist can give helpful guidance.

Diagnosis

A doctor or dermatologist (a skin specialist) will look at your skin and ask about your daily habits, such as where you sleep, how often you change your pillowcase, what products you use, and whether you touch your face often. This is usually enough to make a diagnosis.

Tests that may be done

• There is usually no test needed for acne.
• In rare cases, a healthcare provider may take a swab to check for infection if a lump looks infected.
• If your acne is severe or sudden, they may ask about hormone symptoms or order a blood test to check for underlying causes.

What to expect at your appointment

The visit is quick and comfortable. The doctor will explain what might be causing your acne and suggest a plan, which may include simple habit changes and possibly a prescription treatment. They will also give advice on how to prevent scarring.

Treatment

Treatment for acne on one side focuses on keeping your skin clean, changing habits that make breakouts worse, and using products or medicines that help unclog pores and calm the skin. Many people see good results within a few weeks with a consistent and appropriate plan.

Self-care at home

• Wash your face once or twice a day with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water.
• Avoid scrubbing your skin or using harsh soaps.
• Look for skin-care and hair products labeled 'non-comedogenic' or 'oil-free' wherever possible.
• Change your pillowcase at least once a week, and clean your phone screen regularly.
• Try not to touch, squeeze, or pick your pimples, as this can cause scarring.
• If you sleep on one side, try to sleep on your back or change your pillowcase more often.

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, a healthcare provider may recommend treatments applied to the skin, such as creams, gels, or lotions that help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, or fight bacteria. For more stubborn acne, they may suggest oral medications, antibiotics, or hormonal therapy for women. These are always prescribed by a qualified professional, and the right choice depends on your skin type, your habits, and your overall health.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a common treatment for acne on one side. In rare cases, a large, painful cyst may need to be drained by a healthcare provider. This is a minor in-office procedure and is not the same as cosmetic surgery.

Living with this condition

Make a simple daily face-washing routine and stick to it. Be patient, because acne can take weeks to improve. Try to stay consistent and avoid changing products too often.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your pillowcases and face towels regularly.
• Clean your phone screen every day with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
• Avoid heavy makeup or hair products that touch your face.
• If you wear a mask or helmet, take breaks when possible and keep the area clean.

Diet and exercise

There is no one 'acne diet' that works for everyone. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water is good for your general health and your skin. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, which may improve your breakouts. If you sweat, wash your face gently soon afterward.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with visible acne can affect your confidence and mood, and these feelings are normal. If you feel sad, anxious, or withdrawn because of your skin, consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional. Seeking help is a strong and healthy step.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent acne, but you can lower your chances of getting it on one side by changing habits like sleeping on your back, not touching your face, changing your pillowcase often, and cleaning your phone. Consistent gentle skin care also helps.

Complications

If left untreated

• Temporary dark marks or redness after pimples heal
• Permanent scars from deep, inflamed acne
• Emotional distress, low self-esteem, or anxiety about your appearance

Long-term outlook

The outlook is generally very positive. With simple habit changes and, if needed, advice from a healthcare provider, most acne on one side clears up and heals well. Even if you have had acne for a while, there are many safe and effective ways to improve your skin and prevent scars.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.