Overview
Acne, although not life-threatening, can be deeply distressing, leading to physical and emotional scarring. Acne often presents in the form of papules, pustules, nodules or cysts, says the Mayo Clinic. Typically acne appears in the form of pimples (whiteheads) and blackheads on the face, back, shoulders or chest. If you have pimples and blackheads that are persistent and continue to worsen, consulting a dermatologist may be beneficial.
Causes of Acne
The Mayo Clinic says that acne forms when three factors combine: overproduction of sebum (oil), irregular shedding of skin cells and a buildup of bacteria. When the hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and oil, pimples and blackheads can result. The most common bacteria that contribute to acne formation are Propionibacterium acnes. Treatment is usually necessary to clear the bacterial infection.
Blackheads
Blackheads are a symptom of acne. They form when a hair follicle becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Blackheads remain open to the surface of the skin; the mixture of dead cells and oil appears as black plugs. The plug may cause the follicle wall to bulge, allowing the introduction of bacteria into the mix, leading to a whitehead.
Pimples
Whiteheads, or pimples, are also a symptom of acne. Whiteheads present as slightly raised, skin-colored bumps. The excess sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria have combined within a hair follicle to form pus; the pore is closed to the surface of the skin, forming the whitehead. When the condition persists, acne can evolve into papules, pustules, nodules or cysts. Papules are small red bumps which signal inflammation and infection. Pustules are red and tender bumps with tips full of pus. Nodules are hard, painful lumps that remain beneath the surface of skin, where a buildup of secretions lies deep within the follicle. Cysts form as painful, pus-filled lumps and are prone to inflammation and scarring.
Treatment
Pimple and blackhead treatments are aimed at decreasing oil production, promoting the overturn of new skin cells and killing bacteria. There are over-the-counter medications that can do one or all of these things. Benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol and salicylic acid are active ingredients used to clear acne, says American Family Physician. Read labels and familiarize yourself with common acne ingredients to make an intelligent product choice. Dermatologists may prescribe topical treatments that have stronger active ingredients or may use an antibiotic (topically or internally) to help fight the bacteria.
Decreasing Your Risk for Pimples and Blackheads
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are things you can do to decrease your risk for acne breakouts. Although you cannot change inherent factors such as age (teenagers are more prone to acne) or gender (menstruating or pregnant females are more likely to develop acne), you can control other factors. Reduce the amount of skin exposure to greasy or oily substances. Using skin care products intended for acne-prone skin is wise. In addition, avoid friction or pressure on the skin. Tight clothing, holding a phone against your chin or wearing a heavy backpack may all contribute to acne breakouts or irritation.
