The face feels like being pricked by needles upon touch.

May 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
A pricking sensation upon touching the face may result from physiological factors, or could be caused by pathological conditions such as allergies or trigeminal neuralgia. Appropriate treatment methods should be selected under medical guidance. Additionally, it might be due to allergic dermatitis, herpes zoster, facial neuritis, or other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and receive targeted management or treatment under a doctor's supervision.

  A needle-like sensation upon touching the face may be caused by physiological factors, or it could result from pathological conditions such as allergies or trigeminal neuralgia. Appropriate treatment methods should be selected under medical guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

  I. Physiological Factors

  In excessively dry weather, facial skin may become dehydrated and overly dry. If a facial mask is applied at this time, the skin may become irritated, leading to a pricking pain sensation. This is a normal phenomenon. Moisturizers can be used to hydrate the skin, and it's advisable to drink plenty of water regularly.

  II. Pathological Factors

  1. Allergy

  Facial pain accompanied by a stinging sensation is typically a sign of irritant contact dermatitis on the face, which may also involve impaired skin barrier function. It is often triggered by exposure to irritating substances. Under medical guidance, topical medications such as tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream may be used for treatment.

  2. Trigeminal Neuralgia

  Trigeminal neuralgia is mostly caused by organic lesions inside or outside the brain. Patients may experience facial muscle twitching, flushing, or tearing. Light touch to the face may also cause mild stabbing pain. Medications such as carbamazepine tablets or phenytoin sodium tablets can be taken under a doctor’s supervision.

  Additionally, similar symptoms may also arise from allergic dermatitis, herpes zoster, facial neuritis, or other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation, undergo necessary examinations to determine the underlying cause, and receive targeted treatment under professional medical guidance.