The Acne Guide

Dive into our fine acne guide—get the lowdown on causes, symptoms, and top treatments, plus helpful tips for keeping your skin clear and glowing!

Causes of Acne

Understanding the causes of acne is key to addressing it effectively. Below are some common factors that contribute to acne breakouts.

Genetics
Stress
Environmental Factors
Hormonal Fluctuations

Whiteheads, Blackheads, Milia

(Comedonal Acne)

Overview of causes and remedies including both over-the-counter and professional treatments. Furthermore we will discuss preventative care.

Blackheads & Whiteheads

What are Blackheads?

2/5 Intensity Level

Blackheads, or open comedones, are small, dark spots that typically appear on the face, nose, and chin. They form when pores become clogged with excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. Hormonal changes and oily skin can increase oil production, leading to clogged pores. When the pores remain open, the trapped material oxidizes upon exposure to air, turning dark. This oxidation gives blackheads their characteristic appearance and name.

What are Whiteheads?

3/5 Intensity Level

Whiteheads, or closed comedones, form when excess oil and dead skin cells clog pores, creating small white bumps beneath the skin's surface. These are most commonly found on the face, particularly the nose, chin, and forehead. If bacteria proliferate within the clogged pore, whiteheads can become inflamed and lead to more severe forms of acne.

Causes

Whiteheads and blackheads form due to clogged pores, often caused by excess oil and dead skin cells. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, and lifestyle factors like sleep deprivation can worsen breakouts by increasing oil production. External products, such as makeup or hair care containing comedogenic ingredients, can also clog pores. To prevent whiteheads and blackheads, it's essential to use non-comedogenic products that won’t block pores or contribute to congestion.

Treatments

Options like Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, and retinoid creams unclog pores and reduce oil. Gentle exfoliants and vitamin A creams may also help.

Chemical peels exfoliate the skin and clear clogged pores using mild acids, while microdermabrasion removes the top layer of skin to help achieve clearer pores. Laser therapy effectively reduces oil production with targeted light. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t yielding results or if blackheads are causing distress, consulting a dermatologist is essential; they can prescribe stronger retinoids, offer oral antibiotics, or perform in-office extractions for optimal results.

Dr. Adnan Mehmood

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Punjab Medical Centre, Lahore

Dr. Afshan Ahmad

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Iftikhaarz Skin Laser & Cosmetology Centre, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Saba Hameed

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Rabia Ishfaq

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Skin Laser and Aesthetic Clinic by Dr. Rabia Ishfaq, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Munazza Zahoor

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Khalid Munir

Phone Number

02138140600

Address

DHA Medical Centre, Karachi

Dr. Malik Aftab Afzal

Phone Number

0518151800

Address

Aesthetics Lounge, Islamabad

Incorporating oil-free, non-comedogenic products into your skincare routine and maintaining regular face washing can help prevent future breakouts. In addition, introduce Niacinamide and hyaluronic Acid into your daily skincare routine. Niacinamide regulates oil and minimizes pores, while hyaluronic acid hydrates to prevent clogged pores and whiteheads.

Milia

What are Milia?

1/5 Intensity Level

Milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that appear on the skin’s surface when dead skin cells, specifically keratin, get trapped beneath the epidermis (outer most layer of the skin). These tiny, cyst-like bumps are firm to the touch and are commonly found on the face, particularly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. Milia can affect people of all ages and are often mistaken for acne or pimples.

Causes

Milia form when dead skin cells and keratin become trapped beneath the skin's surface. This can result from sun damage, heavy skincare products that block exfoliation, skin trauma like burns or blisters, and aging, which slows cell turnover. These factors interfere with the skin's natural shedding process, leading to the buildup of keratin and the development of milia.

Treatments

Gentle exfoliants containing salicylic or glycolic acid can help remove dead skin cells and prevent new milia from forming.

For stubborn milia, options include chemical peels, cryotherapy, and laser treatments, which effectively remove the top layer of skin or cysts. Dermatologists may also recommend retinoids or deroofing for persistent cases to achieve optimal results.

Dr. Afshan Ahmad

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Iftikhaarz Skin Laser & Cosmetology Centre, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Adnan Mehmood

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Punjab Medical Centre, Lahore

Dr. Rabia Ishfaq

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Skin Laser and Aesthetic Clinic by Dr. Rabia Ishfaq, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Khalid Munir

Phone Number

02138140600

Address

DHA Medical Centre, Karachi

Dr. Munazza Zahoor

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Saba Hameed

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Malik Aftab Afzal

Phone Number

0518151800

Address

Aesthetics Lounge, Islamabad

To prevent milia, avoid heavy skincare products, exfoliate regularly, use sunscreen daily, and avoid aggressive skincare treatments that could irritate or damage the skin.

Pimples And Their Types

(Inflammatory Acne)

Overview of causes and remedies including both over-the-counter and professional treatments. Furthermore we will discuss preventative care.

Papules

What are Papules?

2/5 Intensity Level

Papules are small, solid, inflamed bumps that appear on the skin, typically conical in shape. Papules do not contain pus. They are usually less than one centimeter in size and can vary in color, appearing the same as your skin tone or in shades of red, brown, or purple. Papules are a type of inflammatory acne, and while they may be tender to the touch, they don’t always cause significant discomfort. They can occur on various parts of the body, especially on the face, neck, back, chest, shoulders, and upper arms.

Causes

Papules are caused by overproduction of oil by the sebaceous glands, which can clog pores and lead to inflammation. An increased presence of bacteria on the skin, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, can trigger the immune response that leads to papules. Hormone level fluctuations, genetics and medications can effect oil production and papule formation as well.

Treatments

Treat papules with serums containing benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria and salicylic acid to unclog pores. Over the counter retinoids can also be explored. However, for severe cases, consult a dermatologist for oral antibiotics or stronger retinoids.

Treatments for papules include topical prescriptions, chemical peels, laser therapy, corticosteroid injections, oral medications, and light therapy, all designed to reduce inflammation and improve skin texture. If papules persist, worsen, or cause discomfort despite over-the-counter treatments, consulting a dermatologist is advised for tailored medications and appropriate interventions.

Dr. Malik Aftab Afzal

Phone Number

0518151800

Address

Aesthetics Lounge, Islamabad

Dr. Munazza Zahoor

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Rabia Ishfaq

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Skin Laser and Aesthetic Clinic by Dr. Rabia Ishfaq, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Saba Hameed

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Khalid Munir

Phone Number

02138140600

Address

DHA Medical Centre, Karachi

Dr. Adnan Mehmood

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Punjab Medical Centre, Lahore

Dr. Afshan Ahmad

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Iftikhaarz Skin Laser & Cosmetology Centre, Wapda Town, Lahore

For prevention, niacinamide helps reduce oil, inflammation, and redness, while azelaic acid fights bacteria and soothes the skin. Hyaluronic acid provides hydration without clogging pores, and ceramides strengthen the skin barrier, making these ingredients ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

Pustules

What are Pustules?

3/5 Intensity Level

Pustules are characterized by bulging blemishes that occur when pores become clogged with pus, sebum (oil), and cell debris. Pustules typically present as red, inflamed pimples with a white or yellow center filled with pus, which may ooze out if the pustule is pierced or broken. They usually occur in areas rich in oil glands, particularly on the face, back, chest, and shoulders.

Causes

Pustules develop from papules when the walls of an affected pore begin to break down. Initially, this breakdown creates a red, swollen bump known as a papule. As the pore deteriorates, white blood cells gather to fight infection, resulting in the accumulation of pus within the papule.

Treatments

Benzoyl peroxide and retinoids can help reduce inflammation and prevent clogged pores, but may have limited effects on deep nodules.

For persistent pustules, professional treatments such as chemical peels, carbon laser peels, and light therapies effectively target clogged pores and bacteria, while extractions safely remove pus. If pustules do not improve after several weeks or become painful, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist, who may recommend retinoids, antibiotics, or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Dr. Malik Aftab Afzal

Phone Number

0518151800

Address

Aesthetics Lounge, Islamabad

Dr. Khalid Munir

Phone Number

02138140600

Address

DHA Medical Centre, Karachi

Dr. Rabia Ishfaq

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Skin Laser and Aesthetic Clinic by Dr. Rabia Ishfaq, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Munazza Zahoor

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Saba Hameed

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Afshan Ahmad

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Iftikhaarz Skin Laser & Cosmetology Centre, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Adnan Mehmood

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Punjab Medical Centre, Lahore

To prevent pustules, focus on ingredients like salicylic acid to keep pores clear, benzoyl peroxide to target bacteria, and niacinamide to reduce inflammation. Regular cleansing with gentle, non-comedogenic products and avoiding heavy or pore-clogging makeup will help maintain a clearer complexion.

Nodular Acne

What is Nodular Acne?

4/5 Intensity Level

Nodules are regarded as one of the more severe forms of acne, marked by hard, inflamed lumps that form deep within the skin. These lumps are typically larger and more painful than other acne types, occurring when bacteria become ensnared, resulting in infection. Nodules can vary in color, from a flesh-toned hue to a more reddish tint, and if left untreated, they are likely to cause post-acne scars.

Causes

Nodules occur when the skin's pores become blocked by dead skin cells, hair, and sebum. This blockage can trap C. acnes bacteria, leading to infection, inflammation, and pain. Several factors contribute to the formation of nodules, including excessive oil production, inadequate skin cleansing, medications, and hormone fluctuations.

Treatments

For nodules, professional treatments include topical prescriptions, corticosteroid injections, chemical peels, laser therapy, oral medications, and light therapy to reduce inflammation and improve skin texture. If nodules are persistent, worsening, or causing discomfort despite over-the-counter treatments, consult a dermatologist for potential prescriptions and targeted therapies.

Dr. Khalid Munir

Phone Number

02138140600

Address

DHA Medical Centre, Karachi

Dr. Munazza Zahoor

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Rabia Ishfaq

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Skin Laser and Aesthetic Clinic by Dr. Rabia Ishfaq, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Malik Aftab Afzal

Phone Number

0518151800

Address

Aesthetics Lounge, Islamabad

Dr. Afshan Ahmad

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Iftikhaarz Skin Laser & Cosmetology Centre, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Saba Hameed

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Adnan Mehmood

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Punjab Medical Centre, Lahore

To help prevent nodular acne, incorporate gentle ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, azelaic acid, and zinc into your skincare routine, as they work together to keep pores clear, balance oil production, and soothe inflammation.

Cystic Acne

What is Cystic Acne?

5/5 Intensity Level

Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, characterized by large, inflamed, painful cysts that form deep under the skin. These cysts are often red and swollen, filled with pus, and can leave scars.

Causes

Acne cysts occur when blockages form deeper beneath the skin's surface compared to other pimple types. When the pressure from inflammation causes the walls of the pores to rupture, bacteria and debris can infiltrate the skin, triggering the immune system to generate pus in response to this perceived invasion.

Treatments

Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, characterized by large, inflamed, painful cysts that form deep under the skin. These cysts are often red and swollen, filled with pus, and can leave scars. Unlike surface-level pimples, cysts don’t form a whitehead and take longer to heal.

Dr. Khalid Munir

Phone Number

02138140600

Address

DHA Medical Centre, Karachi

Dr. Malik Aftab Afzal

Phone Number

0518151800

Address

Aesthetics Lounge, Islamabad

Dr. Saba Hameed

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Rabia Ishfaq

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Skin Laser and Aesthetic Clinic by Dr. Rabia Ishfaq, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Munazza Zahoor

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Online Consultation

Dr. Afshan Ahmad

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Iftikhaarz Skin Laser & Cosmetology Centre, Wapda Town, Lahore

Dr. Adnan Mehmood

Phone Number

04238900939

Address

Punjab Medical Centre, Lahore

To prevent cystic acne, regular use of retinoids can help regulate cell turnover and prevent pores from clogging. Ingredients like niacinamide reduce inflammation, while avoiding oil-based products can help control excess sebum. Managing stress, staying hydrated, and following a consistent skincare routine with non-comedogenic products are essential in preventing cysts from forming.

You've Got Questions...

We've Got Answers

Do pimples go away on their own?

Most pimples generally resolve on their own as the body works to clear clogged pores. However, some, like blackheads, can persist for extended periods and may require additional treatment to speed up their disappearance. Employing treatments like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or pimple patches can help clear these blemishes more effectively.

Why do I have pimples on my chin?

How can I treat my breakouts?

What’s the difference between whiteheads and blackheads?

Do blackheads go away on their own?

What is inflammatory acne?

What's the difference between pustules, papules, nodules, and cystic acne?

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