Pimples and zits are just other names for the papules and pustules that form as a result of acne. As dead skin and excess oil clog the pores, it can cause the hair follicles to become inflamed and even infected with bacteria, triggering the formation of bumps on the skin. After pimples and zits heal, you may notice patches of slight discoloration left on the skin. These markings can be a sign of residual inflammation. The treatment of pimples and zits doesn't necessarily follow the same line as acne marks, so you may need to focus on clearing the acne before trying to get rid of any discoloration left on the skin.
Acne Treatment
Step 1
Pick up an over-the-counter acne cream, advises the Mayo Clinic. OTC acne creams not only kill the bacteria linked to acne, but they also remove dead skin and excess oil that contributes to this skin condition. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests creams containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
Step 2
Try a cream containing azelaic acid. Azelaic acid works as both an antibacterial agent as well as a compound that can clear out the pores. It should be applied to pimples, zits and the surrounding skin for best results.
Step 3
Start using a topical retinoid. Both the Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology recommend this prescription medication to treat moderate to severe acne. Retinoids work similarly to azelaic acid by helping to remove obstructions clogging the pores.
Step 4
Consider a topical antibiotic. Dermatologists frequently prescribe topical antibiotics, like erythromycin or clindamycin, mixed with either benzoyl peroxide or retinoids. This form of treatment is often more effective than other forms of treatment, asserts the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 5
Continue to wash your face, or any other area affected by pimples and zits. While using any type of acne cream, it's important to wash the face with a gentle cleanser and warm water one to two times a day.
Acne Mark Treatment
Step 1
Give your complexion some time to even out. The acne marks left after pimples and zits heal often fade on their own. It may take several months to see an improvement in the skin.
Step 2
Try using a topical retinoid. Not only do topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, help to clear up acne, but they can also remove hyperpigmentation of the skin left as a result of acne.
Step 3
Pick up a bleaching cream. Bleaching creams can help to fade acne marks. This topical treatment is available in prescription and nonprescription strengths. However, try to apply the cream only to the areas of discoloration.
Step 4
Consider a cosmetic procedure. If acne marks are fairly severe, you may want to consider using a chemical peel, microdermabrasion or laser therapy to even out the skin. All three of these procedures essentially resurface the skin by either removing the epidermal layer of the skin or stimulating the dermal layer of the skin, which encourages new skin growth and triggers the production of collagen, respectively.
Tips and Warnings
- Oral contraceptives are also used to treat acne. However, they are typically reserved for women who haven't benefited from other forms of treatment. Some people also benefit from oral antibiotics, claims the Mayo Clinic. Oral antibiotics help to kill excess bacteria on the skin and in the pores. Much like acne marks, pimple and zits can benefit from laser therapy, according to experts at the Mayo Clinic. Laser therapy dries excess oil and eliminates bacteria, which should lessen inflammation of the follicles and reduce the signs of acne. Although some acne creams contain the active ingredients of sulfur or resorcinol, the American Academy of Dermatology cautions that both products lack the evidence of effectiveness on acne.
- The Mayo Clinic warns against the use of exfoliants, astringents or facial scrubs while dealing with pimples or zits. These types of products can irritate the skin, and thereby worsen the acne. Women who are pregnant, or currently trying to get pregnant, should avoid using retinoids.
Things You'll Need
- Acne cream
- Azelaic acid
- Retinoids
- Antibiotics
- Gentle cleanser
- Bleaching cream
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