Acne breakouts can happen anywhere on your skin. The most common sites include the face and neck, shoulders, back, and chest.
Oil, bacteria, dead skin cells, and dirt can block the tiny pores on your skin. When this occurs, you may develop a pimple, sometimes also called a zit or blemish.
If you live with acne, know that it’s a common condition.
Keep in mind, too, that acne is very treatable. A number of effective treatments exist, so you have options for reducing the number of pimples you get and minimizing your chances of scarring.
What are the different types of acne?
Whiteheads and blackheads, both also referred to as comedones, are the most common acne lesions.
- Blackheads, or open comedones, open at the surface of your skin. Oxygen in the air (not dirt) gives the top of these pimples their darker appearance.
- Whiteheads, or closed comedones, form as raised bumps under the surface of your skin. They remain flesh-colored.
Inflammatory lesions, which are more likely to cause scarring of your skin, include:
- Papules. Infected or inflamed hair follicles are the cause of these tiny, red, raised bumps.
- Pustules. These small red pimples have pus at their tips.
- Nodules. These solid, often painful lumps develop beneath the surface of your skin.
- Cysts. These large lumps beneath your skin contain pus and are usually painful.
What causes acne?
Acne occurs when the pores of your skin become blocked with oil, dead skin, or bacteria.
Each pore of your skin opens to a follicle. The follicle is made up of a hair and a sebaceous (oil) gland.
The oil gland releases sebum (oil), which travels up the hair, out of the pore, and onto your skin. Sebum helps keep your skin lubricated and soft.
One or more mishaps in this lubrication process can contribute to acne.
Acne might occur, for example, when:
- your follicles produce too much oil
- dead skin cells accumulate in your pores
- bacteria build up in your pores
Any of these concerns can lead to pimples, which develop when bacteria grow in a clogged pore and the oil can’t escape.
Preventing acne
It’s not always possible to completely prevent acne, but you can take certain steps at home to help lower your chances of getting pimples or acne breakouts.
Try these tips:
- Wash your face daily with an oil-free cleanser.
- Try an OTC acne cleanser to help remove excess oil.
- Use water-based makeup or products labeled ‘noncomedogenic”—this means they’re less likely to clog your pores.
- Avoid skin care and makeup products that contain oil.
- Always remove makeup and cleanse your skin thoroughly before bed.
- Shower or wash your face after exercising.
- Tie back long hair to keep it out of your face.
- Avoid tight-fitting hats, headbands, and clothing that covers breakout-prone areas.
- Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
- Take steps to reduce stress.
A dermatologist can offer more tips and guidance on managing and preventing acne.
Conclusion
Acne can be tough, but plenty of effective treatments can help ease breakouts and heal your skin.
If you continue to experience painful or persistent breakouts, a dermatologist can offer support with creating a treatment plan that works for your skin and reduces scarring.