Article: Pimple

Acne of a 14 year old boy during puberty.

A close-up of a "whitehead" pimple. Take note of the inflammation surrounding it.

A pimple is a type of skin lesion that is caused by inflamed and/or obstructed pores. The most common cause of pimples is acne; however, other causes, such as smallpox exist as well.

Acne is a common disorder that is characterized by clogged pores and pimples in the skin. Permanent scars, as well as pain and itching may accompany the disorder. However, acne is not a serious health threat. Many people with acne are acutely self-conscious about the condition. Frequently affecting adolescents, acne may intensify feelings of shyness that are extremely common during the teen years.

Causes

Tiny pores are connected to oil glands under the skin. These glands produce an oily substance called sebum. The pores connect to the glands by a canal called a hair follicle. Inside the follicles, oil carries dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. A hair will grow through the follicle and out to the skin. When a follicle clogs up, a pimple will begin to grow. This condition is referred to as keratosis pilaris. At this point the pimple is untreatable, however there are creams and lotions available to lessen the inflammation. Any treatment for keratosis is cosmetic because the condition is not harmful.

Misconceptions about acne

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There are many myths about what causes acne. Greasy foods and chocolate are often blamed, but foods have little effect on the development and course of acne in people. It is true, though, that anger and stress affect hormone levels and thus bodily oil production, which can cause acne. People of all ages and races can get acne. It is most common in adolescents and some young adults. 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 develop acne. For most people, acne tends to go away around the time they reach their thirties; however, some people in their forties and fifties continue to have this skin problem.

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Category:Acne

See also

• Acne vulgaris
• Blackhead
• Keratosis pilaris

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