Pimple, zits, whiteheads, blackheads and cysts are all types of acne eruptions. These unsightly blemishes are the result of dead skin cells mixing with sebum, a naturally occurring oil that keeps the skin and hair lubricated. When these substances mix, the result is a plug that blocks the opening of a hair follicle, or pore. The blocked pores become inflamed and may contain bacteria, which causes the blemishes characteristic of acne.
Risk Factors
People with a family history of acne are more likely to develop acne eruptions than those without that history. Approximately 85 percent of American teens suffer from acne annually, states the American Academy of Dermatology, so being a teenager is another risk factor. Females are likely to develop eruptions two to seven days prior to menstruating and throughout pregnancy. A person whose skin is in direct contact with oily substances is likely to develop acne.
Triggers
Hormones and stress are likely triggers of acne. It is also possible that a sensitive immune system can lead to acne, states the American Academy of Family Physicians. In this case, the body reacts abnormally to the sebum produced in the hair follicles, which results in acne. Other common triggers for acne are friction and pressure, such as that caused by vigorous scrubbing and tight clothing.
Considerations
For a person suffering from acne eruptions, care must be used when choosing hair care products and skin care products. Any cosmetics or skin care products should be water-based or labeled as noncomedogenic, as these products aren’t likely to clog pores. In addition, the acne-prone areas should be washed daily using lukewarm water and a gentle cleaner to control the sebum on the skin. In areas where the hair comes into contact with acne-prone skin, using greasy products or oil-based products, such as pomades, can cause acne, states AcneNet. Shampooing the hair daily can help to control natural oils on the hair that can worsen acne.
Treatments
Topical and oral medications are used to treat acne. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that for mild acne, topical treatments are the standard. The active ingredient in these products is usually salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids or antibiotics. While there are prescription products available for each of these ingredients, over-the-counter products are available with either salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Oral treatments include hormonal treatments, antibiotics or isotretinoin. In some cases, injections of corticosteroids may help to treat severe cystic acne eruptions.
Warnings
Emotional and physical scarring are both possible for people who suffer from acne eruptions. As such, treating the acne should begin as soon as the first blemish is noticed. This can limit the severity of the eruptions. It is possible, however, that the skin will become scarred even with treatment because picking at the blemishes or trying to pop the pimples can introduce infection into the area. Should scars become a problem, a dermatologist may be able to minimize their appearance by using techniques such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, surgery or skin fillers.
Member Comments