Anyone can get pimples. Almost all people are affected by pimples at some point in their lifetime. Though oily skin is the most pimple-prone, all skin types can get pimples. Pimples are also known as acne, and they occur when the skin’s oil glands are overactive, and pores get inflamed.
Acne causes pain, redness, and swelling. The appearance of acne can make a person anxious or shy and reduce self-confidence. There is no way to prevent acne, but it is possible to reduce the severity and keep it under control. Home remedies can treat mild acne, and severe acne is controlled using medications like topical creams, gels, and solutions.
What causes acne?
Acne is formed when the sebaceous glands on the skin’s surface are clogged by excess sebum production. Sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles. Bacteria found on the skin contaminate the clogged follicles and cause acne.
Some factors responsible for causing acne are:
Hormone change: The level of androgen increases in boys and girls during puberty. It enlarges the sebaceous glands and leads to higher sebum production. In women, hormone changes occur at midlife and cause pimples.
Eating refined sugar and carbohydrates: Studies show that the risk of getting acne is 30% higher for people who consume added sugars. Eating high carbohydrate food like cakes and pastries has a 20% greater risk of developing acne.
Medications like steroids and birth control pills: Steroids can make the sebaceous glands susceptible to infection and inflammation. It increases sebum secretion and androgen levels. Usually, steroids cause acne on the chest and upper back. Sometimes they appear on the face, and the pimples disappear after the steroids are stopped. Birth control pills make the androgen levels fluctuate and cause acne.
Hereditary: when one or both parents had it in adolescent age: Acne runs in families and can be passed through genes, and you can get it when one or both parents had it in adolescent age. However, there is no specific gene responsible for causing pimples. You may not suffer from acne throughout your lifetime, but the chances of developing acne are higher.
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Ways to prevent acne
Clean your skin regularly using mild soap and water. It is essential to remove the excess oil, dirt, and sweat daily. Don’t use hot water or a washcloth to clean your face.
Keep your hair clean and dandruff-free. Don’t let it fall on your face; dandruff in the hair can infect the facial skin and cause pimples. Oils and gels used on the hair can get on your face, clog the pores and lead to acne.
Use water-based moisturizers and make-up products. Choose only fragrance-free and non-comedogenic moisturizers and look for products that minimize dryness and skin peeling.
Never squeeze a pimple; it spreads infection. It can cause bleeding, scarring, and increased inflammation. The condition of the acne worsens and takes a longer time to heal.
Do not touch your face. Your hands may have grime and impurities that can clog the pores when you touch the face. To prevent acne, wash your hands well before touching your face.
Acne is not a severe health problem, but it can affect you emotionally and reduce your self-confidence. OTC medications and a good skincare routine help to combat pimples effectively. When acne causes anxiety and shyness, it becomes a bigger problem. A visit to a dermatologist can give better and quicker results. With advanced medications and treatments, acne is no more a problem, and you can quickly get smooth and clear sk