What Is Meth Face?

Just under 2 million Americans ages 18 and older have used methamphetamine in the past year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 50% of those individuals have developed a use disorder to the substance, highlighting why meth is so addictive. In addition to the psychological distress that comes with addiction, the drug causes unique physical symptoms that can create genuine discomfort for the user, like meth sores on the face. Along with other characteristics, these sores are sometimes referred to as “meth face.” Meth face is one of the most alarming and visible consequences of meth abuse, accelerating aging, promoting severe skin deterioration, and causing dental damage. The latter often results in what is commonly referred to as “meth mouth.” 

Over time, the use of meth can lead to dramatic physical changes that reflect the intense toll the drug takes on the body. At WhiteSands Treatment, we seek to help anyone suffering meth addiction. Our team of addiction treatment experts is equipped with years of experience and facilities offering various therapies, detox, in/outpatient rehab, and more. Meth sores on the face are not forever lasting and can resolve with proper treatment. 

 

What Does Meth Do to Your Face?

Meth use can have significant and damaging effects on a person’s physical appearance, including the face. The changes occur over time and are often a result of the drug’s impact on the body and lifestyle factors associated with addiction. 

Here’s a breakdown of how meth affects the face:

• Skin Damage: Meth use often leads to the development of skin issues like severe acne, sores on the face, and pockmarks. Users can compulsively pick at their skin, leading to open wounds or infections.
•  Meth Mouth: Meth use destroys teeth. The drug reduces saliva production, encouraging tooth decay and gum disease.
• Facial Aging: Meth accelerates the aging process by affecting the skin’s elasticity and collagen production. This leads to sagging skin, wrinkles, and a distinct aged look. Chronic use of meth can cause weight loss, making the face appear gaunt with hollowed cheeks and sunken eyes.
• Facial Twitches and Tics: Meth use can cause involuntary movements, including facial tics, twitching, or muscle spasms. This is due to the overstimulation of the nervous system caused by the drug.
• Facial Disfigurement (in severe cases): Long-term, heavy meth use can result in significant facial changes, including the collapse of facial tissue due to extreme weight loss and skin damage.

The damage caused by meth to the face is a combination of physical changes, poor self-care, and the long-term effects of the drug on the body. These effects can be one of the easiest ways to spot a meth addiction, and it’s time to seek treatment.

Does Meth Make Your Face Break Out?

Yes, methamphetamine use can cause significant skin problems, including breakouts and other dermatological issues. One of the most common side effects of meth use on the skin is a condition known as meth mites or formication, where users feel like they have bugs crawling under or on their skin. This leads to compulsive scratching, picking, and even digging at the skin, which can cause sores.

Methamphetamine also constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the skin, impairing healing, and making the skin look dull and unhealthy. Users may also experience increased oil production in their skin, contributing to clogged pores and acne. Long-term meth use can significantly worsen skin conditions, making breakouts and other skin issues more severe.

Why Do Meth Addicts Have Sores on Their Face?

Meth use can lead to many physical health issues, and one of the most common and noticeable effects is the appearance of sores on the face and other parts of the body. These sores are often a result of several factors that are specific to meth addiction:

• Skin Picking (Formication): Meth is a powerful stimulant that can cause users to experience formication. This intense itching and paranoia can lead people to scratch, pick, or even dig at their skin, often causing open wounds or sores.
• Reduced Immune Function: Methamphetamine can suppress the immune system, making the body less able to fight off infections. As a result, even minor skin abrasions can become infected and lead to open sores that heal slowly.
• Poor Hygiene: Using meth often leads to a neglect of personal hygiene, partly due to the drug’s stimulating effects on the brain. This can make users more prone to skin infections and the development of sores, as they may not wash or care for their skin properly.
• Dehydration and Skin Damage: Methamphetamine causes dehydration, which can dry the skin and make it more prone to cracking, irritation, and infection.

These facial sores, along with other physical and mental health effects, are visible signs of the damage meth can cause to the body. If you or someone you know is struggling with a meth use disorder, it is crucial to seek help for meth addiction from a medical professional for treatment and support.

 

Can Meth Face Be Reversed?

Meth face can partially improve. However, total reversal is often tricky, especially with long-term use. The extent of recovery primarily depends on the duration and severity of meth use. If a person stops using meth, the skin can begin to heal over time, but it may take months or even years for significant improvement. Proper skincare, including hydration, moisturizing, and avoiding further skin trauma, can help restore some of the skin’s natural appearance. 

Medical treatments, such as acne medication, laser therapy, or chemical peels, may also effectively reduce scarring and improve skin texture. However, deep scarring and permanent damage, like pockmarks or loss of elasticity, may not fully heal without professional intervention. As a result, it’s crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible. Treatment facilities like WhiteSands help individuals end their dependence on meth, preventing sores on the face and further damage. 

Overcome Addiction to Remove Meth Sores on Face By Contacting WhiteSands Treatment

If you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction and dealing with the physical consequences, including meth sores on the face, seeking professional help is crucial. WhiteSands Treatment is a reputable addiction treatment center that can provide the support needed for recovery, both physically and mentally.

WhiteSands Treatment offers a range of services for individuals battling substance abuse, including meth addiction. Our comprehensive approach includes medically assisted detox, therapy, and aftercare designed to help individuals break free from addiction and begin healing.

To get in touch with WhiteSands Treatment, you can call our helpline at 877-855-3470 and start getting help. Healing from meth addiction takes time, but with the proper treatment and support, recovery is possible.

External Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Patterns and Characteristics of Methamphetamine Use Among Adults
• Science Direct – Formication
• ScienceDirect – Methamphetamine Drug Abuse and Addiction

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.