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Pimples are small skin lesions or inflammations commonly arising
from clogged or infected pores. Most pimple outbreaks are usually
a sign of impending acne,
but there are other causes as well, like bacterial folliculitis,
keratosis pilaris and other skin problems. If left unattended,
they can multiply and lead to severe acne. They can even leave
annoying scars on your skin if they are not treated immediately.
Pimples usually develop after blackheads
or whiteheads become inflamed and infected.
Majority of teenagers and adolescents experience pimple outbreaks.
This happens when the skin tries to adjust to hormonal changes
typically during puberty. However, even adults can have pimples,
especially those who are most exposed to dirt and experience
a lot of stress. Also women typically develop pimple outbreaks
during their menstrual cycle when their hormones surge before
or during their menstrual cycle.
Why do pimples arise?
Our skin has tiny pores which are connected to oil glands. Once
these oil glands are blocked, either by dirt or obstructed by
abrasions and infections, the oily substance (called sebum)
they excrete then block the growth of hair follicles, causing
pimple outbreaks. Most importantly, elevation of hormones produced
during puberty or the menstrual cycle in women result in the
hormone by-product called DHT. This hormone by product overstimulates
the oil gland resulting in plugging of the pore and acne production.
To address this, there are creams and acne
products / ointments available over the counter which you
can use topically. However, if they seem to be getting worse,
it is recommended that you go see a dermatologist
or skin expert immediately.
You must keep in mind, though, that pimples are not deadly.
Cures definitely exist. However, it can be a real nuisance to
your social life.
How do you treat pimples?
You can start by addressing the problem even before it happens.
That is, by sticking to a regular skin
cleansing regimen to rid your pores of unwanted particles
and dirt. The easier it is for your skin to breath, the fewer
problems they will cause you. It requires a lot of discipline
and patience, yes, but you will be thankful in the long run.
However, if you already have pimple problems, here are some
things you can do on your own.
Don't squeeze your pimples and do the sebum extractions yourself.
This could lead to further infection and scarring. Also, avoid
touching your face and pimples often. Increased friction on
the pimple will cause it to close up further, making extraction
a lot more difficult.
Buy oil-free and antibacterial cleansers made especially to
combat pimple outbreaks. Be careful not to over scrub, though,
as your skin still needs its natural oils to stay healthy and
blooming. If you dry it out too much, another set of pimple
outbreaks could occur. Cleanse deeply, but moderately. In fact,
some skin experts even recommend that you wash only with water
and mild/baby soap. Switching from one cleansing product to
another might also cause allergies and other skin problems.
Realize that pimples are often the result of hormonal shifts
and will go away once the hormone irregularity is corrected.
There really is no need to panic; buy an anti-DHT acne
treatment product in the market.
If you really can't resist poking at your pimples, make sure
you do so under sanitary conditions. Only extract whiteheads
or blackheads. If red pimples and pustules are manipulated,
they may result in scaring of skin and the spread of acne. Use
sterile materials and wash your hands thoroughly before you
pop. Extract gently and then clean and disinfect the area with
a cotton swab or tissue after. If you can't pop it, leave it
alone. A dermatologist or an aesthetician may be able to help
you further especially before an important party or engagement
by injecting a mild steroid called Kenalog. This injection can
make the breakout disappear in 6-20 hours
.If your pimples recur every time, it could be a sign of acne.
In case the over the counter medications are not helping then
consult your doctor immediately before it gets aggravated.
Dr. Khadavi is an expert on acne and dermatology, and writes
regularily on the field of skin care and is a leader addressing
acne in adults. |
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About Acne
