Acne/ Pimples

It is skin condition which is seen as bumps. It can be of various types: black heads, white heads, pimples, or cysts. It mainly occurs on the face, but it is also seen on the neck, shoulders, upper back or chest.

Causes:

• It is caused by infection of the skin glands.
• During hormonal changes (teenage) the glands can produce too much of sebum (natural wax produced by these glands).
• Unclean skin causes infection and swelling of the pores often seen as pimples.

Prevention:

• Prevention is the best way to avoid acne.
• Wash face with mild soap regularly.
• Avoid putting on make-up. At least remove it before going to bed.
• Washing hair keeps the face less oily.
• Wash face after exercise.
• Antibacterial pads can be used to wipe face.
• Avoid rubbing your face it may worsen the pimples.
• Do not touch, pick, or squeeze the pimple, it can make it worse. If hands are dirty it can cause further infections.
• The truth is, if you cannot prevent it, once it spreads it is almost impossible to cure it, you have to wait for it to heal.

Treatment: 

• Antibacterial creams are available (be careful you can be sensitive to them).
• Washing the face regularly with a mild soap can help.
• Some girls find birth control pills help get rid of Acne.

Facts:

• Food does not cause acne.
• Stress does not cause acne but can worsen it.
• Sun does not cure acne.
• Acne is not caused by dirt or sweat.
• Acne generally does not appear after teenage is gone. Some girls get acne some days before their periods because of hormonal changes.
• Acne is not contagious.
• Picking of pimples can cause scarring.

Compiled by: Indrajit Sinha, Last updated: 02.12.07 © Medhospital Foundation

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