Pimples: Causes, Types, Treatment and Home Remedies

While usually harmless, pimples can be bothersome and affect self-confidence, especially when they are painful or appear in noticeable areas. Though pimples are a normal part of life, frequent or severe breakouts may indicate an underlying condition like acne.

Hormonal changes, stress, or skincare habits can often trigger flare-ups. Understanding what causes them and how to manage your skin properly can go a long way in reducing breakouts and keeping your skin healthy.

Types of Pimples

• Blackheads: These are small bumps on the skin that form when excess oil and dead skin cells clog hair follicles. They may look like dirt is trapped inside, but the dark color is actually due to how light reflects off the clogged material not because of poor hygiene.
• Whiteheads: Bumps that remain closed by oil and dead skin.
• Papules: Small red or pink bumps that become inflamed.
• Pustules are pimples: that contain pus. They look like whiteheads and are surrounded by red rings. If they are scratched, they can cause severe reactions.
• Fungal Acne: It occurs when an excess of yeast develops in the hair follicles. It can become itchy and inflamed.
• Nodules: It's a solid pimple that is present deep inside the skin. They are large and very painful.
• Cysts: Pus-filled pimples will cause scars on your skin.

How Excess Oil and Bacteria Cause Pimples?

Human skin contains pores that connect to sebaceous glands located beneath the surface. Follicles, which are small sacs, link these glands to the pores. These follicles produce and secrete sebum, an oily substance. Sebum, along with dead skin cells, travels through the follicles to the skin's surface. A small hair also emerges from each follicle.

Pimples form when these follicles become clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells. This blockage creates a plug that can become infected with bacteria. The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes is commonly associated with acne. The infection leads to inflammation and swelling, causing a pimple to develop as the plug breaks down.

Research indicates that the severity and frequency of small acne can vary depending on the bacterial strain involved. Not all strains of acne bacteria are harmful; some may actually help keep the skin clear of pimples.

Difference Between Acne and Pimples

Acne is a common skin condition that includes different types of breakouts, while pimples are just one part of it.

Acne is a broader skin condition that can include blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. It often appears in areas with more oil glands like the face, chest, back, shoulders, and neck. Acne is caused by a mix of factors such as overactive oil glands, bacteria, and clogged pores. It can range from mild to severe, and treatment may include topical creams, oral medications, or even prescription therapies.

Pimples, on the other hand, are small red bumps that may contain pus. They are usually the result of a clogged pore or hair follicle. Pimples tend to show up mostly on the face and are often mild. They can usually be treated with over-the-counter products like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

In simple terms, pimples are a symptom of acne, but not all acne is limited to just pimples.

Causes of Pimples

Acne happens when hair follicles under the skin become blocked. This can lead to pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads. Several things can trigger or worsen acne. Here's how each factor plays a role:

Oily Skin

Oily skin can lead to pimples because excess oil, or sebum, can clog pores. When the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, it combines with dead skin cells and gets trapped in the follicles. This creates a plug that can become infected with bacteria, leading to inflammation and the formation of pimples.

Hormonal Factors

• A series of factors trigger Acne, but the leading cause is thought to be an increase in androgen levels.
• Androgen is a type of hormone that increases in levels during early adolescence. In women, it turns into estrogen.
• The increase in androgen levels causes the growth of the sebaceous glands under the skin. The enlarged gland produces more sebum. Too much sebum can break down the cell walls of the pores, causing bacteria to grow.

Bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes)

• This bacteria naturally lives on your skin.
• When pores get clogged, it gets trapped inside.
• It feeds on the oil in the skin and multiplies.
• The body reacts by sending white blood cells, causing redness, swelling, and pus.

Clogged Hair Follicles

• Hair follicles can get blocked by dead skin cells and oil (sebum).
• This creates a plug that traps bacteria and dirt.
• Blocked pores become inflamed, leading to pimples and blackheads.

Genetics

• If acne runs in your family, you might be more likely to get it.
• Genetics can affect how much oil your skin produces.
• It can also influence how your body responds to clogged pores or inflammation.

Medications

• Certain medicines can increase oil production in the skin.
• Steroids, androgens, and lithium are common culprits.
• These drugs can also trigger hormonal changes, which lead to breakouts.

Cosmetics

• Some skin and hair products contain heavy oils.
• These oils can block pores and trap dirt.
• When pores get blocked, it creates the perfect environment for acne to form.

Emotional Distress

• Anxiety
• low self-esteem
• depression

Conditions that Cause Pimples

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Cushing's Syndrome
• Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
• Acne Conglobata
• Acne Fulminans
• Rosacea (Acne Rosacea subtype)
• Perioral Dermatitis
• Seborrheic Dermatitis
• Hidradenitis Suppurativa
• Folliculitis

Symptoms of Pimples

• Red, Inflamed Bumps: Small, raised, red bumps on the skin.
• Whiteheads or Blackheads: Bumps with a white or black tip, caused by clogged pores.
• Pus-filled Pimples: Pimples with a white or yellow center filled with pus.
• Pain or Sensitivity: Tenderness or pain, especially when touched or squeezed.
• Scarring: In severe cases, pimples may leave dark spots or scars once healed.
• Swelling: Swelling around the affected area, making the pimple appear larger.

When to See a Doctor?

Call your provider or a dermatologist if:

• Self-care steps and over-the-counter medicine for pimples on face don't help after several months
• Your Acne is terrible
• Your Acne is getting worse
• You develop scars as your Acne goes away
• Acne causes emotional stress

Diagnosis of Pimples

Diagnosing pimples, or acne, typically involves a physical examination and medical history. Here's how dermatologist usually diagnose it:

Physical Examination

A dermatologist will:

• Check the type of acne lesions (whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, nodules).
• Examine the location (face, chest, back, shoulders).
• Assess severity (mild, moderate, severe).

Medical History

They may ask about:

• Onset and duration of pimples
• Skin care routine and cosmetic use
• Diet, stress levels, and sleep
• Family history of acne
• Menstrual cycle (in females)
• Medications (like steroids or birth control)

Hormonal Testing

In females with severe acne, irregular periods, or signs of hormonal imbalance, tests may include:

Androgen levels (testosterone, DHEA-S)

• Thyroid function
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) screening

Bacterial Testing (rarely needed)

• In resistant or severe acne cases, a skin swab may be taken to identify bacterial strains like Cutibacterium acnes.

Treatment of Pimples

• It's critical to comprehend the origins and severity of acne in order to choose the most effective acne therapy. For mild acne and occasional breakouts, self-diagnosis and appropriate products like acne cream, face wash for Pimples, gel, and home remedies can be effective.
• If you have used over-the-counter acne products for several weeks and they haven't helped and made your Acne worse, consult a dermatologist to avoid acne scars or damage to your skin and to make acne scars less visible.
• During a skin consultation, a dermatologist will examine your Acne closely and inquire about your medical history, past breakouts, and, for women, menstrual cycles to assess hormonal impact. Treatment will vary based on age, type, and severity of Acne.
• The test may reveal underlying health issues needing different treatment plans. A doctor or dermatologist might conduct tests to identify the root cause of the skin infection. Pregnant women should avoid oral prescription medications for Acne.

Acne Medications

These are the most commonly prescribed medications for Acne:

Retinoids and Retinoid-like drugs

It mostly comes as acne pimple creams, gels, and lotions. Pimple removal cream can be applied in the evening, beginning three times a week, then daily as the skin becomes used to it. It is prevented by plugging the hair follicles.

Antibiotics

For severe to moderate acne treatment, it works by killing bacteria and reducing redness. For the first few months, use an antibiotic in the morning and a retinoid in the evening. The antibiotics are mostly combined with benzoyl peroxide to prevent the likelihood of developing antibiotic resistance.

Examples are Clindamycin with Benzoyl peroxide (Benzaclin, Duac, Acanya) and Erythromycin with Benzoyl peroxide (Benzamycin). Topical antibiotics alone are not recommended.

Salicylic acid and Azelaic acid

Its antibacterial properties make it the most effective treatment for Acne without damaging the skin. It also reduces redness and calms skin inflammation as pores open up and clear out. Salicylic acid helps to prevent clogged hair follicles and is available as both wash-off and leave-on products. It can be used twice a day for at least four weeks.

Dapsone

Dapsone (Aczone) 5% gel twice daily is recommended for acne infection, especially in adult females with Acne. Side effects may include redness and dryness.

Benzoyl Peroxide

For mild Acne, the doctor may recommend a nonprescription drug containing benzoyl peroxide. It is believed that it kills bacteria associated with Acne. Treating acne usually takes at least four weeks and should be used continuously.

Acne Therapies

These therapies might be suitable, as suggested in a few selected cases, either alone or in combination with medications.

Lasers and photodynamic therapy

This light-based therapy has been tried with some success. However, further study is needed to find the ideal method, light source, and dose.

Chemical peel

This procedure includes repeated applications of a chemical solution, such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or retinoic acid. However, improvement in Acne is not long-lasting and may appear again, which leads to repeated treatment.

Extraction of whiteheads and blackheads

The doctor might use special tools to gently remove whiteheads and blackheads that haven't cleared up with topical medications. This technique may lead to a scar.

Steroid injection

Nodular and cystic lesions are treated by injecting a steroid drug directly into them. This therapy resulted in rapid improvement and less pain. Side effects may include thinning in the treated area.

How to Prevent Pimples?

Acne prevention plays a crucial role in reducing Acne by following good essential skincare and other self-care techniques to get clear and healthy skin:

• Use a mild cleanser twice a day to get rid of excess oil, dirt, and dead cells.
• Try over-the-counter acne products containing (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids) to get rid of excess oil and promote peeling.
• Avoid oily or greasy cosmetics, sunscreen, and concealer, etc.
• Protect your skin from the sun.
• Avoid pressure or friction on acne-prone skin, such as contact with phones, helmets, tight collars, etc.
• Refrain from touching the acne-prone area as it can lead to more infection.
• Avoid picking, squeezing, or popping pimples. It can lead to scarring and skin infection.
• Remove makeup before sleeping.
• Drink more water.
• Avoid Oily Food.
• Keep your hair as oil-free and clean as possible, and never sleep with oil on your hair.

Home Remedies for Pimples

• Apple cider vinegar can be applied to affected skin as it fights many types of bacteria and Acne.
• Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the redness of pimples and kill the bacteria that cause Acne.
• Jojoba oil's sticky substances help to repair damaged skin and speed up the healing of wounds, including Acne.
• Aloe vera has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the appearance of Acne and prevent acne breakouts.
• Honey is used to treat skin infections such as Acne as it comprises many antioxidants that help to clear dirt and debris from clogged pores.
• Green tea has the antioxidant property of breaking down chemicals and waste products that can damage healthy cells and clear dirt and debris that have built up on acne sores.
• Coconut oil is an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compound that destroys acne-causing antibacterial compounds.