Acne and pimples commonly occurs during puberty, when the sebaceous glands activate, but it can occur at any age. It is not dangerous, but it can leave skin scars. The glands produce oil and are stimulated by male hormones produced by the adrenal glands in both males and females. At least 85 percent of people in the U.S. experience acne between the ages of 12 and 24 years.
Some facts on pimples and acne
Home remedies
There are many suggested home remedies for acne and pimples, but not all of them are supported by research.
Human skin has pores that connect to oil glands under the skin. Follicles connect the glands to the pores. Follicles are small sacs that produce and secrete liquid.
The glands produce an oily liquid called sebum. Sebum carries dead skin cells through the follicles to the surface of the skin. A small hair grows through the follicle out of the skin. Pimples grow when these follicles get blocked, and oil builds up under the skin.
Skin cells, sebum, and hair can clump together into a plug. This plug gets infected with bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes is the name of these bacteria), and swelling results. A pimple starts to develop when the plug begins to break down.
Research suggests that the severity and frequency of acne and pimples depend on the strain of bacteria. Not all acne bacteria trigger pimples. One strain helps to keep the skin pimple-free.
A range of factors triggers acne and pimples, but the main cause is thought to be a rise in androgen levels. Androgen is a type of hormone, the levels of which rise when adolescence begins. In women, it gets converted into estrogen.
Rising androgen levels cause the oil glands under the skin to grow. The enlarged gland produces more sebum. Excessive sebum can break down cellular walls in the pores, causing bacteria to grow.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how severe and persistent the acne is.
Mild acne and pimples can be treated with over-the-counter medications and dermatological cosmetics, such as gels, soaps, pads, creams, and lotions, that are applied to the skin.
Creams and lotions are best for sensitive skin. Alcohol-based gels dry the skin and are better for oily skin.
Over-the-counter acne and pimple remedies may contain the following active ingredients:
It is advisable to start with the lowest strengths, as some preparations can cause skin irritation, redness, or burning on first use. These side effects normally subside after continued use. If not, see a doctor.
A skin specialist, or dermatologist, can treat more severe cases – a long lasting acne or big, inflamed pimples. They may prescribe a gel or cream similar to over-the-counter medications but stronger, or an oral or topical antibiotic.
If a cystic pimple becomes severely inflamed, it may rupture. This can lead to scarring. A specialist may treat an inflamed cyst by injecting a diluted corticosteroid.
This can help prevent scarring, reduce inflammation, and speed up healing. The cyst will break down within a few days.
Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for up to 6 months for patients with moderate to severe acne – that means, if the pimples are big and swollen.
These aim to lower the population of P. Acnes. The dosage will start high and reduce as the acne clears. However, P. acnes can become resistant to the antibiotic in time, and another antibiotic is needed. The pimples are more likely to become resistant to topical rather than oral antibiotics.
Oral contraceptives can help control acne and pimples in women by suppressing the overactive gland. They are commonly used as long-term acne treatments.
These may not be suitable for women who:
It is important to check with a gynecologist first.
Topical antimicrobials also aim to reduce P. acnes in patients with moderate to severe acne and pimples. The dermatologist may prescribe a topical retinoid as well.
Topical retinoids are a derivative of vitamin A. They unclog the pores and prevent whiteheads and blackheads from developing. Examples of topical retinoids prescribed are adapalene, tazarotene, and tretinoin.
This is a strong, oral retinoid, used for the treatment of severe cystic pimples and severe acne that has not responded to other medications and treatments. It is a strictly controlled medication with potentially serious side effects. The patient must sign a consent form to say that they understand the risks. Adverse effects include dry skin, dry lips, nosebleeds, fetal abnormalities if used during pregnancy, and mood swings.
Patients who take isotretinoin must avoid vitamin A supplements, as these could lead to vitamin A toxicity.
Types of pimples and acne
Acne pimples vary in size, color, and level of pain. The following types are possible:
Here are some tips for looking after skin that has acne or is prone to it.
Do not scrub the skin or burst the pimples, as this may push the infection further down, causing more blocking, swelling, and redness.
Avoid popping pimples, as this makes scarring likelier.
A specialist can treat a pimple that requires rapid removal for cosmetic reasons.
Refrain from touching the face.
Hold the telephone away from the face when talking, as it is likely to contain sebum and skin residue.
Wash hands frequently, especially before applying lotions, creams, or makeup.
Clean spectacles regularly as they collect sebum and skin residue.
If acne or pimples are on the back, shoulders, or chest, try wearing loose clothing to let the skin breathe. Avoid tight garments, such as headbands, caps, and scarves, or wash them regularly if used.
Choose cosmetics for sensitive skin and avoid oil-based products. Remove makeup and cosmetics before sleeping.
Use an electric shaver or sharp safety razors when shaving. Soften the skin and beard with warm soapy water before applying shaving cream.
Keep hair clean, as it collects sebum and skin residue. Avoid greasy hair products, such as those containing cocoa butter.
Avoid excessive sun exposure, as it can cause the skin to produce more sebum. Several acne medications increase the risk of sunburn.
Avoid anxiety and stress, as it can increase production of cortisol and adrenaline, which exacerbate acne.
Try to keep cool and dry in hot and humid climates, to prevent sweating.
Acne is a common problem. It can cause severe embarrassment, but treatment is available, and it is effective in many cases.
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