Acne and pimples are skin conditions which can be irksome to many, especially those of who are in their adolescent years. It is often hard to identify pimples and acne separately from one another because of the blatant similarities of the symptoms that they both manifest in affected individuals. Therefore, these two conditions are often confused between one another. And yet, as both acne and pimples can greatly affect one’s self esteem as well as be the cause of serious health problems, it is important that they are treated in due time. In order for these two conditions to be treated, they must be singled out and recognized separately first.
What is a pimple?
Pimples occur due to the blockage of the pores of the skin with excessive oil and dirt. This condition is very common among teenagers when the androgens hormone is at high levels, inducing the sebaceous glands to produce too much oil and thus causing the blockage. Pimples can occur on any part of the body and they are usually treated with medications such as ointments, natural methods, vitamin supplements and prescribed drugs.
What is acne?
While there are two types of acne such as inflammatory and non-inflammatory, it is caused largely as a result of oil, dirt and bacteria getting trapped in follicle pockets which result in clogged pores beneath the skin’s surface. This in turn creates whiteheads or blackheads as well. Acne is a common occurrence among adolescents during puberty and it is usually triggered by hormones and oily skin which are common conditions witnessed during this age. As sebum and keratin plugs start growing through a process of hyperkeratinization, the sebum collection may be infected by various bacteria thereby enlarging the papules. Other causes to acne can be listed as genetic syndrome in the family, activation of inflammation through scratching, hormonal activities, bacterial infection, anabolic steroids, extreme stress, restless sebaceous glands and exposure to harmful chemicals. However, acne is curable and can be reduced by way of medication and proper treatment of skin.
What is the difference between acne and pimples?
Acne and pimples are both skin conditions that mostly affect adolescents as a result of the hormonal changes that take place during this specific period of their lives. However, acne and pimples are quite difficult to differentiate from one another as a result of their extremely similar natures. However, there are a few different traits that set these two conditions apart. Acne manifests itself in the form of scaly red skin and sebum collection under the skin which in turn presents itself in the form of pin points or pimples or nodules. Pimples, on the other hand occur due to the blockage of skin pores. Pimples manifest themselves in the form of papules where the protrusion of skin which happens as a result of sebum collection under the skin will appear as an elevation from the surface of the skin. Acne and pimple are indeed treatable and yet, they should be recognized in order for them to be treated effectively. Simple acne however, does not require any specific treatment as keeping the skin clean at all times is deemed as enough treatment for this condition. Pimples and acne are common conditions that are seen on girls as the increased presence of the androgen hormone triggers these issues.
Summary
- Acne and pimples are two skin conditions common in adolescents
- Acne occurs as a result of the blockage of a follicle whereas pimples occur as a result of a blocked skin pore
- Pimples are a type of acne
- Simple acne can be cured simply by keeping the skin clean
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