Skin Care

What is a pimple?

Pimples are small inflammations commonly arising from clogged or infected pores. Most outbreaks of pimples are usually a sign of impending acne, but there are other causes as well, like bacterial folliculitis, keratosis pilaris and other skin problems. If not treated, they can compound and lead to a more severe case of acne. They can even leave damaging scars on your skin if they are not treated immediately. Pimples most frequently develop after blackheads or whiteheads become inflamed and infected.

Many of teenagers and adolescents experience pimple outbreaks. This happens when the skin tries to adjust to hormonal changes typical during this time of life. However, adults can experience pimples as well, especially those who work in dirty environments and experience a lot of stress. Also, women quite often develop pimple outbreaks when their hormones surge before or during their menstrual cycle.

What causes pimples?

Our skin has tiny pores which are connected to oil glands. Once these pores are blocked, either by dirt or obstructed by abrasions and infections, the oily secretion (called sebum) they excrete further plugs the pores, causing an outbreak. Most importantly, elevations 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 glands resulting in plugging of the pore and acne production. To address the problem, there are ointments available over the counter which you can use topically. However, if the outbreak does not clear up, it is recommended that you go see a dermatologist or skin expert for their recommendations.

How do you treat pimples?

You can start by addressing the problem even before it happens. That is, by sticking to a proper skin cleansing regimen to rid your pores of excess oil and dirt. The easier it is for your skin to breath, the fewer problems that will be caused. It requires a lot of discipline and patience, yes, but you will be rewarded in for your efforts.

However, if you are already experiencing problems with pimples, here are some suggestions.

To begin with, don’t squeeze your pimples. This could lead to additional infection and possible scarring. Also, avoid touching your face and pimples frequently. Increased friction on the pimple can cause it to close up further, making extraction even more difficult.

Make sure to use oil-free and antibacterial cleansers made especially for the purpose of controling acne. Be careful to not scrub too much, though, as your skin still needs its natural oils to stay healthy and glowing. If you dry it out too much, another outbreak of pimples could result. In fact, some skin experts even recommend that you wash only with water and mild/baby soap.

Realize that pimples often occur because of complications from hormones and will go away once the hormone irregularity ends.

If you really can’t resist trying to poke at your pimples, make sure you do so in a sanitary way. Only extract whiteheads or blackheads. If red pimples and pustules are manipulated, it may cause scaring and make the acne spread further. Use sterile materials and wash your hands completely before and after the process. Extract gently and then clean the area with a cotton swab or tissue when done. If the pimple won’t pop, leave it alone.

For extreme cases or prior to an important party or engagement, a dermatologist may be of assistance by injecting a mild steroid named Kenalog. This injection can help the breakout clear up in 6-20 hours.

This site has more information on How to Get Rid of Pimples.