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Pimples are basically blocked pores on the skin as a result of these blockages, the sebum (an oily protective substance that is produced by the sebaceous glands under the skin) builds up and forms pimples. Very often, along with the build up of sebum, bacteria also accumulate on the skin and take hold, causing some amount of inflammation. If you have a chronic pimple problem, you may be suffering from acne.
The causes of acne are not entirely clear, but they include factors such as genetics, hormone fluctuations, stress, and certain medications and other chemicals. Acne is most common during the teen years, but can occur at any time in life. Usually however, it begins during adolescence and disappears by the time the person reaches their mid twenties.
Acne is rather difficult to control and cure, but today there are some over the counter medications that are actually quite effective. There are still a number of products that make claims that they are unable to match, so do not buy just about any pimple cream. A cream that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide is what you should be looking for. These chemicals help the skin to slough off more efficiently, thus avoiding a build up of dead cells and bacteria.
In addition, hygiene is extremely important in managing acne. Although the idea that acne is caused by dirt is a misconception, a lack of hygiene means that dead skin cells and sebum are able to accumulate on the skin and cause blockages. In addition, bacteria accumulate on the skin, and are then able to infect pimples that develop. You should therefore wash your face frequently, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or in dusty or polluted environments. Avoid using soap as it tends to dry out the skin this may seem like a good idea if your skin is oily, but in reality drying out your skin frequently will most probably cause it to produce more oil, leading to more pimples.
Modern scientific research is also uncovering clues that point to dietary causes of acne. As yet not enough research has been done, but there is strong evidence that foods such as processed foods (colas, chocolates, sweets, pastries) contribute to acne via a complex mechanism that influences hormone levels. A lack of vitamin A and vitamin E could also contribute to acne, and can be avoided by eating foods such as carrots, spinach, pumpkin, nuts, and olives.
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