The causes of pimples can be easily explained. In a way, acne is made up of blocked hair follicles, which is also known as a comedone. Comedones are both open (blackheads) and closed (whiteheads). Closed comedones develop when a hair follicle is blocked under the skin by debris such as oil and dirt. Due to the blockage, the pore will swell up and may cause a breach in the surface of the follicle. This leaks into the skin and results in inflammation, which usually appears as bumps on the skin with pus. In contrast with closed comedones, the surface of the follicle is open to the air.
Dead skin cells and other debris react with the air and gradually change color. This oxidation produces chemicals that turn dark in much the same way that an apple changes color when exposed to the air.
Contrary to popular belief, blackheads are not the result of dirt. Scrubbing them in an effort to “clean” them will simply irritate the skin or make the situation worse.
Acne and pimples may also have predominantly pustular or cystic sub types. Pustular and cystic acne are notable for collections of dead skin cells, bacteria, white blood cells, and oil. These forms of acne may be helped by oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics, IPL, PDT, hormone blockers, or Accutane and its generic equivalents.
Pimples are caused by three factors: bacteria, hormones, and sebum (oil). Increased adhesion of the epidermal cells also contributes to acne. Recently, some studies have demonstrated that diet may play a role in acne, although the findings are preliminary and more work needs to be done in this area.
Not every pimple is acne, and an occasional breakout should not prompt you to demand Accutane from a dermatologist. Understanding the various types of acne and the treatments for each will help you to take better care of your skin.
Conditions other than acne, including infections with yeast and unusual bacteria, can produce pimples without being acne. Rosacea can mimic acne, and even some dermatologists have difficulty distinguishing between the two.
Occupational exposures to chemicals can also lead to conditions that stimulate acne. Only a dermatologist is trained to consider these and a variety of other factors when evaluating your skin so seek professional help when you need it.
After learning the causes of pimples, check out some tips on removing acne scars and the type of acne causing food you should avoid everyday.



