Since starting lithium, my skin around the beard area has been acting up. Any tips on managing acne or dryness while maintaining beard health?
Lithium can definitely stir up skin issues, especially around the beard area. I’ve found that using a gentle, non-comedogenic beard oil helps with dryness without clogging pores. Since lithium can exacerbate acne and folliculitis, keeping your skin clean with a mild cleanser and avoiding heavy products has made a difference for me. Regular check-ins with your doc to adjust dosage can also help manage these side effects.
Lithium’s impact on skin and hair, particularly in beard areas, often stems from its ability to disrupt sebum production and exacerbate conditions like folliculitis. While non-comedogenic oils help, incorporating a salicylic acid-based beard wash can address both dryness and acne by exfoliating dead skin cells and regulating oil production. Additionally, lithium’s potential to induce hypothyroidism, which can further impact hair texture, underscores the importance of thyroid function monitoring alongside serum lithium levels. Topical treatments with niacinamide may also reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier function, complementing the existing advice on gentle cleansing and product selection.