Pimples are small growths on the surface of your skin. 

They may become inflamed or discolored. Acne typically causes pimples to develop, most commonly on your face, chest, shoulders and upper back.

 

Are Pimples Common?

Pimples are very common. 

It is most common in adolescents, but can occur in adults as well.

How do pimples affect my body?

You're most likely to get pimples on your face (especially on your nose, chin, forehead, and sometimes around your cheeks and lips), neck, back, chest, and upper arms. However, there are sebaceous glands all over the body. 

They release an oily lubricant called sebum that keeps skin and hair moisturized and lustrous. , and pimples on the external genitalia (penis or labia).

It does not have a serious impact on your physical health, but it can affect you psychosocial (the impact society and social groups have on your mind) and psychological (self-image and behavior). They can be associated with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and suicidal thoughts.

Symptoms of Pimples?

There are different types of Pimples, and symptoms vary depending on the type. These include:

Papules:

These are small bumps (warm and painful to the touch) that can become infected.

Blackheads:

These are open pores on the skin that contain excess sebum and dead skin. It looks like there is dirt or blackheads on the bumps. However, irregular light reflections from clogged follicles cause dark spots. 

Acne:

These are bumps that remain closed by sebum and dead skin. They have a white or yellowish appearance.

Nodules:

These are rounded or oddly shaped lumps. They can be deep under the skin and are often painful.

Pustule:

These are pus-filled pimples that look like pimples surrounded by discolored rings. Picking or scratching the pustules can cause scarring.

Cyst:

These are pimples filled with a thick yellow or white fluid made up of dead white blood cells, small pieces of tissue, and bacteria (pus). Cysts can cause scarring.

 What causes a pimple to form?

Sometimes the things you touch can irritate your skin and cause pimples. Many people think of acne when they think of acne. Sebaceous glands (sebaceous glands) are found all over the body. Blockage and inflammation of the sebaceous glands lead to the formation of acne.

Clogs and inflammation can occur as a result of:

• Increased sebum production (an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands). 

• Abnormal formation of keratin (a protein that helps form hair, skin, and nails).

• Increased bacteria on the skin that causes Pimples.

If over-the-counter medications don't help you with Pimples, your doctor may recommend prescription drugs such as antibiotics or oral hormone replacements.

Should I squeeze or pop my pimples?

Popping pimples can be very tempting — and satisfying. However, it’s best if you don’t squeeze or pop your pimples. Squeezing pimples can cause several problems, including:

• Introducing bacteria into the pimple opening. Bacteria can cause an infection.

• Irritating your skin. Your skin is sensitive, and your nails are much stronger than your skin. When you use your nails to apply a lot of pressure to your skin to pop a pimple, you can cause inflammation. Pimple-popping tools (blemish extractors) can also damage your skin. Only a healthcare provider, medical aesthetician or dermatologist should use these tools.

• Scarring your skin. You can draw blood and seriously damage your skin if you apply too much pressure. If pimples are deep in your skin, you may not even extract them.

How long do pimples last?

Pimples usually last between three and seven days. Most pimples go away on their own, but it may take some time. Deep pimples (pimples under your skin with no head that may feel hard to the touch) may take a few weeks to go away, if not longer.

It’s better to see your healthcare provider at the first sign of pimples and follow their treatment suggestions.

What can’t I eat or drink if I have pimples?

Health care providers and researchers once believed that certain foods, especially skim milk, whey protein, and diets high in sugar (including chocolate), contributed to the development of pimples. Studies between diet and pimples are inconclusive.

However, certain vitamins can help promote healthy skin and prevent breakouts.These include:

• Vitamin A: Good sources of vitamin A include leafy green vegetables, orange and yellow vegetables, tomatoes, fruits, fish and liver.

• Vitamin D: Good sources of vitamin D include fatty fish (mackerel, salmon, trout and tuna) and vitamin-fortified foods, including dairy and nondairy milks, breakfast cereals and orange juice.

• Vitamin E: Good sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables and vegetable oils.

How should I manage my pimples?

If you have pimples, be careful managing them to avoid irritation. You can do this by:

• Not touching or picking at your pimples.

• Being careful around your pimples while shaving.

• Regularly cleaning items that touch your face, including your cell phone, sports helmets, sunglasses, clothing and pillowcases.

You can also use over-the-counter acne medications like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These come in many forms. A wash is the least irritating.

How can I prevent pimples?

• Preventing pimples is difficult, if not impossible, during normal hormonal changes.However, the following tips can help.

• Wash your face once or twice a day with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser.

• Use a moisturizer on your face on a daily basis. Make sure it's fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (doesn't cause pimples).

• You don't have to stop wearing makeup, but try non-comedogenic products and be sure to remove makeup at the end of each day. Wash your hair regularly - be sure to include your hairline along your forehead.

• Keep hair gel and other products away from your face.

• Avoid touching the skin on your face with your hands.