Pimple

What is a Pimple?

A pimple, spot, or zit is a kind of clogged hair pore in the skin. It occurs if excessive oil gets trapped in some pores of the skin. Sebaceous glands produce sebum inside the pore developing a pimple. The dead skin cells which are left behind may become glued by the sebum. The sebum which contains bacteria, creates a blockage within the skin. It can also result in acne, infections, and inflammation. It can result in a swollen portion of the skin, and cause itchiness. Sometimes yellowish water can come out from the pimple, that needs to be washed immediately. Pimples can leave a permanent scar on the skin that is hard to heal. The familiar names for a pimple are whiteheads, blackheads, and pustules or papules.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of a pimple are:

  • Blackheads (clearly visible on the surface of the skin).
  • Whiteheads (does not appear clearly but develops under the layer of the skin).
  • Papules (small, solid, round bumps that rise from the skin).
  • Pustules (full of pus).
  • Cysts.

 

Causes

A pimple can turn into severe acne when the medications do not help. The main causes of a pimple may include:

  • Irritation.
  • Pain in the affected area.
  • Permanent scars.
  • Yeast infections.
  • Swelling.

Risks

A pimple can result into acne that can spread all over the skin. Also, pimple causes skin infection or other skin related diseases.

Prevention

In order to prevent the occurrence of a pimple, one should take care of the following:

  • Taking a proper diet and living in clean surroundings.
  • Drinking sufficient water.

How is ir diagnosed?

A pimple is visible on the skin as it starts to grow and can be diagnosed just by looking at it or seeing if a pus is appearing yellow in color and reddish at the base. 

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How is it treated?

At Medanta, our doctors will recommend a few over the counter medications such as benzoyl, peroxide, salicylic, and triclosan which is an antibacterial and antifungal agent. 

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  • Creams/gels or medications

    All the above mentioned gels and medications can be used for the treatment of pimples. It will help slough off dead skin cells. Before applying any medication, the person should wash his hands and the affected area with warm water to keep it hygienic. A cleanser should not be implemented on the pimple as it can be harmful.

  • Drinking lots of water

    The person having a pimple must keep drinking a lot of water. Also keep the pimple area clean, wash it with neutral water so that the dead skin cells can are reduced. Some medications like antibiotics can cause side effects like vomiting, or stomach aches. Even if your medications are proper and hygienic, pimples cannot heal soon. A pimple will take sufficient time to settle down.

When do I contact the doctor?

If a pimple is not getting any better even after being hygienic and taking proper precautions, a dermatologist should be contacted in this case. 

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