What Causes Pimples?

Pimples are structural changes in the skin which are the results of clogged and infected skin pores. In extreme cases, they may develop into blackheads and whiteheads. If the pimples occur regularly, the phenomenon is known as acne. Bacterial folliculitis, keratosis pilatis etc are some of the main causes of acne. Most of the times, untreated acne either leads to severe acne or leaves visible scars on the skin for life.

Pimple outbreaks are common in teenagers. During teenage years, the skin tries to adjust to hormonal changes. However, it is found that many adults suffer from acne as well. Women suffer from pimple outbreaks especially during their menstrual cycles. This is because of the hormone surge in the body which causes excess oil to clog the skin pores.

What do scientists say?
There are little holes called pores present in our skin. The oil glands in our body are connected to these pores. If the oil glands are blocked, either by dirt or because of any other factor, the oil (sebum) can’t find a way out and, as a result, pimples pop up.

Another major factor contributing to their formation is the increase in the production of hormones. The hormones produce a product called dihydrotestosterone or DHT in short. This DHT stimulates the oil-glands and the excess of oil cause pores to clog. There are a lot of creams available in the market to treat pimples but if the conditions seem to get out of hand, consulting a dermatologist is recommended.

How to treat pimples?
The best way is to concentrate on acne before it appears. Regular cleansing of the skin clears it of unwanted particles and dirt. This makes is easier for the skin to breathe and reduces the probability of pimples occurring. This is a better and an easier option in the long run. However, if you are already suffering, here are a couple of tips you can try:

(1) Don’t sedum yourself. This often worsens the situation leading to further infection and scarring.

(2) Avoid touching your face. Friction may either sedum the skin or the dirty hand may infect the uninfected parts of your face.

(3) Oil-free and anti-bacterial cleansers are a good option to combat pimple outbreaks.

(4) The skin needs oil. Make sure you are not over scrubbing your skin. Over scrubbing takes out oil from your skin and it is not good for the skin. It makes the skin dry and dry skin can only aggravate the problem.

(5) Wash your skin gently but thoroughly. Prefer not to use soap. If your doctor advises, you can go for a skin cleanser. Baby soaps are a better option if you wish to use them at all.

(6) Changing soaps and skin-cleansers regularly may cause allergies and other kind of skin problems.

(7) There is tendency among teenagers to sedum the skin. If you are among them, make sure you are doing that under extremely sanitary conditions. You can use antiseptic solutions.

If the things seem to get out of control, a doctor or a dermatologist must be consulted. There are injections available to treat this problem but they should only be used under extreme conditions. These injections, known as kenalogs can help in treating a pimple outbreak in a matter of hours.

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