A pimple occurs when the sebaceous gland, an oil secreting gland, continues to produce oil but cannot expel it as the opening of the gland near the surface of the skin is blocked. Over time bacteria grow in the retained oil and resulting in the red, swollen inflamed lesion.
To simplify it we may break it down into two categories; first, factors that may overstimulate oil production, and second, factors that block the oil release.
Overstimulation of the sebaceous gland may be a part of a natural process such as in teenage due to androgen surge, medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, medications like lithium, phenytoin, corticosteroid, etc. Nevertheless, stress can also trigger acne, that's why students experience flares during board exams, or before any important event such as a wedding.
Factors that block the oil release are an accumulation of dead cells, the buildup of skin and hair care products, friction from masks, and tight clothing.
Who gets a pimple?
Literally, anyone can get pimples at any age. There is a variant, neonatal acne, where a newborn gets acne due to maternal androgen hormones present in the body. Teenage acne is again due to a surge in androgens or male hormones during adolescence. Adult acne is seen commonly in females in their 30s to 40s.
Why should we treat pimples early?
You may let the pimple run its course or try many DIYs to fade it. But the best thing to do is to treat pimple when it appears. Treating pimple early may help get you a faster and better result, prevent the risk of scarring, reduces the chances of developing post pimple pigmentation or red marks, require stronger medicine and also saves you from lots of emotional distress.
How to take care of yourself at home?
Keep your regimen simple. Start with a salicylic acid-based face wash twice a day and after sweating as it can worsen acne. Regularly shampoo your hair if it's oily. Change pillow cover and towel frequently. Don't scrub your face and do not use products that irritate your skin such as alcohol-based astringents, and toners. Don't pick, pop or squeeze your acne. Avoid touching your face throughout the day.
What ingredients you must look for in your skincare product?
You can try anti-acne skin care products containing salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. They come in different strengths, so for home use, one must prefer lower strength that is well tolerated by your skin. Remember not to cause overtly dryness as it may cause worsening of acne. Reserve the higher strength for use upon dermatologist consultation and recommendation.
What is the best treatment for acne or pimple scars?
There is no single best treatment for pimple scars. There are different types of pimple scars and each scar is treated differently. It is common to have different types of pimple scars on one’s skin. So, your dermatologist will treat with a combination of different modalities such as laser, micro-needling radiofrequency, trichloroacetic acid cross, subcision, platelet-rich plasma, etc.
The result of the scar treatment is better if you treat the scar early. The result of the same procedure is better if you start scar treatment in a few weeks to months rather than years. Also, there should be a realistic expectations. There is no procedure that can remove 100% of the scar. However, it can be greatly improved.
Contact Details:
Dr. Prativa Shrestha: MD, Dermatologist at Glow Skin and Dental Clinic
Location: Thadodunga, Dhobighat
Email: [email protected]
Contact No.: 9745615656, 9828915936
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