Pimple

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Pimple
Synonyms	Zit, spot
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Redness, swelling, pus
Complications	Scarring, hyperpigmentation
Onset	Puberty
Duration	Days to weeks
Types	N/A
Causes	Clogged pores, bacteria, hormones
Risks	Adolescence, hormonal changes
Diagnosis	Physical examination
Differential diagnosis	Acne, folliculitis, rosacea
Prevention	Skin hygiene, diet, stress management
Treatment	Topical treatments, oral medications, laser therapy
Medication	Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, antibiotics
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	None

Blackheads

File:AcneVulgarisUSMIL.jpg

Acne Vulgaris

A pimple is a type of acne that forms when the pores of the skin become blocked with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Pimples can appear anywhere on the skin, but they most commonly occur on the face.

Causes

Pimples are caused by a variety of factors. The primary cause is the overproduction of oil in the skin's oil glands, which can lead to the pores becoming blocked. This blockage can then lead to the growth of bacteria, which causes inflammation and the formation of a pimple. Other factors that can contribute to the formation of pimples include hormonal changes, stress, certain medications, and a diet high in refined sugars and carbohydrates.

Symptoms

The main symptom of a pimple is a small, raised red bump on the skin. This bump may be filled with pus, which is a mixture of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Other symptoms can include redness, swelling, and pain at the site of the pimple.

Treatment

Treatment for pimples can vary depending on the severity of the acne. Over-the-counter treatments include creams and gels that contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can help to unblock the pores and reduce inflammation. For more severe cases of acne, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger medications, such as retinoids or antibiotics. In some cases, procedures like laser therapy or chemical peels may be used to treat pimples.

Prevention

Preventing pimples involves maintaining a good skincare routine, which includes cleansing the skin regularly to remove excess oil and dead skin cells. It's also important to avoid picking or squeezing pimples, as this can lead to scarring and further skin infections.

See also

• Acne
• Blackhead
• Whitehead
• Cystic acne
• Rosacea

External links

• Mayo Clinic - Acne
• American Academy of Dermatology - Acne