Meth Skin Sores: Causes, Treatment and More

Home » Blog » Meth Skin Sores: Causes, Treatment and More

Methamphetamine is a powerful substance that people often use to feel a euphoric high that includes feelings of invincibility. Unfortunately, the negative effects of meth use make it clear that people are not invincible to the physical and mental harm that substance use causes. Meth sores are one of the most visible signs of someone using the drug, and they have several different causes.

Although seeing sores on someone’s skin doesn’t always mean they are using meth, it helps to know that they could be a sign that someone is struggling with substance use. Taking a look at how meth skin sores develop and what you can do to help yourself or someone else who is struggling with addiction provides insight into how you can heal physically and emotionally in recovery.

Why Meth Causes Skin Sores

Meth affects the body’s central nervous system. While people tend to use the drug to feel the temporary rush of energy that meth induces, the downside is that a ramped-up nervous system also has devastating effects on the body.

Meth use leads to dehydration due to its acidic components and stimulant properties. While on meth, people also tend to become hyper-focused on other tasks that cause them to overlook the need to perform self-care such as drinking water.

The chemicals in meth can cause skin irritation. This is why you may see more skin sores around the mouth area where people may have more exposure when they smoke the drug. Skin sores may also develop from injections, especially in the arms.

Once skin sores develop, the repetitive behaviors that people engage in while under the influence of meth can make them worse. Skin picking often causes the sores to enlarge, and it’s common to see multiple ones on different parts of the body.

People who use meth also tend to experience itchy sensations that prompt them to scratch their skin. Many people experience psychological side effects from meth that include having a sensation of bugs crawling on their skin.

The hallucination of believing that bugs are crawling on the skin is called formication, but you might hear people refer to this as having “meth mites”. Seeking professional assistance with recovery from meth can help to end these hallucinations so that you or your loved one’s skin can begin to heal.

Symptoms and Appearance of Meth Sores

Meth sores can start as a bump, but they quickly develop into red, inflamed open wounds. They most often are seen on the face, but people who use meth might also have them on their arms, hands and other easily accessible parts of their body.

Sadly, meth can also cause people to neglect skin care. Forgetting to bathe and wash their face increases the risk of skin infections. The dehydrating effects of meth can also cause the skin to dry out and develop wrinkles, which can further exacerbate the negative effects the drug has on someone’s appearance.

Health Risks Associated With Skin Sores

Infected skin sores caused by methamphetamine use can spread and cause systemic illnesses that require immediate medical attention. Meth users often experience lesions, blisters, and abscesses on their skin, sometimes referred to as “meth face.” If these infections remain untreated, they can lead to permanent scarring and other serious health issues.

In addition to skin problems, meth abuse weakens the immune system and reduces blood flow, which makes it harder for the body to heal. This is especially dangerous for individuals suffering from meth mouth or mouth sores and face sores, which are common among those with poor hygiene due to long-term substance abuse.

While the sight of these meth-related sores may be alarming, the good news is that they tend to clear up once a person receives appropriate treatment and stops methamphetamine addiction. However, neglecting the health risks associated with meth abuse can result in more severe conditions, such as tooth decay, weight loss, and even life-threatening infections. Seeking timely healthcare is crucial for addressing both the physical and psychological effects of crystal meth.

How to Treat Meth Sores

General wound care can help you receive prompt, short-term treatment for meth sores. If you or a loved one have open sores, then you’ll want to wash them with a gentle soap and water solution. You can achieve this through bathing, face washing or using a soft cloth to cleanse the skin gently.

Once the skin is clean, you can choose to use an antibiotic cream to prevent infection. Some over-the-counter antibiotic creams also contain pain relievers that can temporarily help stop the itching and discomfort that stimulates skin-picking.

Placing a bandage over the wound helps to keep germs out. Plus, the bandage can serve as a reminder to the person to avoid picking at the scabs or open wound. For the face, hydrocolloid patches can promote healing while also being less visible than a traditional bandage.

After you’ve addressed your short-term needs for healing, it’s time to think about how to prevent meth sores from developing in the future. The only way to stop meth sores from developing is to quit using the drug. Seeking professional help from a recovery program can provide hope for long-term relief from painful and potentially upsetting meth skin sores.

The Importance of Meth Addiction Treatment

People begin using meth for a variety of reasons. You or your loved one might have tried meth for the first time out of curiosity. Or, you might’ve been trying to self-treat mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. No matter how you begin using meth, there is treatment available that is effective for helping you quit.

Comprehensive Treatment Programs at Live Free Recovery

Live Free Recovery has treatment programs available that include a comprehensive range of services that can help you begin the process of regaining control over your physical and emotional health.

Inpatient and Outpatient Care

Our New Hampshire drug and alcohol treatment center offers both inpatient and outpatient care that is personalized to fit your needs. For most people who use meth, withdrawal symptoms are a challenge that can impact their recovery. Attending our detox program provides you with around-the-clock support that includes helping you manage withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia and cravings.

Medication-Assisted Treatment for Meth Withdrawal

Depending upon the severity of your addiction, you might also benefit from medication-assisted treatment. For those who need it, this form of care can help to alleviate your withdrawal symptoms while you work on other aspects of your mental health.

Over time, you may be able to wean off of the treatment. But, the relief that medication-assisted treatment provides allows you to regain control over your mind and body as you heal from your substance use disorder.

Therapy for Underlying Mental Health Conditions

Therapy is another essential service that you’ll find at our treatment center. Many people have underlying mental health conditions that are connected to their meth use. For instance, people with depression may rely on meth to provide them with the energy they need to get through their day. Seeking mental health support through various treatment options allows you to learn healthier coping strategies for managing depression, PTSD, anxiety, and other conditions that influence your overall well-being. Incorporating behavioral therapy into your addiction recovery plan can help you address both substance use and mental health issues simultaneously, setting the foundation for long-term healing and stability.

Family Therapy for Rebuilding Relationships

If meth use has ravaged your relationships as much as it has your skin, then family therapy is an option that can help you form happier and healthier social connections. Working through your marriage and family challenges with the help of a trained therapist allows you to learn strategies that enhance communication and other behavior patterns at home.

Group and Individual Therapy

We offer both group and individual therapy at our treatment center. In group therapy, you’ll learn that you are not alone in dealing with addiction. Instead, you’ll hear from others who also battle challenges with meth use, skin sores and other negative consequences of substance use.

You’ll also be able to share your story if you choose and learn from others who can listen to you without judgment. While opening yourself up to others can sometimes feel scary, you’ll quickly feel right at home when you are surrounded by people who understand the challenges you face.

Individual Therapy for Personal Insights

In individual therapy, you’ll work one-on-one with a therapist to identify the reasons for your meth use. You can explore issues that might have developed during childhood or while you were facing personal challenges as an adult. As you develop greater insights into what makes you tick, your therapist will guide you to new ways to address challenging situations and emotions that eliminate your reliance on meth.

Relapse Prevention and Aftercare Support

As you begin to heal physically and mentally, you’ll then be ready to begin to transition to the most exciting aspect of our program. Our relapse prevention program allows you to plan for a drug-free future at home where you might embark upon a career, continue to heal with your family and find new passions and hobbies that support your decision to live a drug-free lifestyle.

Rehab Alumni Group for Ongoing Support

Our rehab alumni group is also one of our most popular services. After completing treatment, it’s common to still want and need a source of support. The people in our alumni group have also chosen to maintain a drug-free lifestyle, which makes it easier for you to find people to enjoy a sober movie night or cook out with. Many of the friendships people develop in this group become lifelong resources for support that develop from sharing the desire to stay sober for life.

Make the Decision to Seek Help From Live Free Recovery

Everyone deserves to have clear skin and a calm heart. If you or a loved one have been struggling with meth addiction, then it is inspiring to know that help is available. Reach out to Live Free Recovery by calling us today! You can also fill out our pre-admission form online to share more details about yourself and meth use.

With both options, you’ll be able to speak to a compassionate member of our staff who can guide you through the next steps to begin your recovery. Healthy skin and happiness are within reach when you connect with people who genuinely care about helping you build a new life in recovery.