Acne & Pimples: Understanding the Differences and Treatments
Acne and pimples are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Dr. Yogessh Suraadkaar, Founder and CEO of Yogee and India’s leading formulation expert, explains the key differences and effective treatments.
The Difference Between Acne and Pimples
Acne: This is a chronic skin condition involving inflammation of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. It leads to various types of blemishes, including blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Acne is more persistent and can result in scarring.
Pimples: These are specific types of acne lesions that occur when oil glands become clogged with dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria, leading to localized inflammation. While all pimples are a form of acne, not all acne manifests as pimples.
Causes and Contributing Factors
Both acne and pimples are caused by clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacterial growth. Factors contributing to acne include:
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
- Diet
- Environmental pollutants
These conditions can be influenced by intrinsic factors (e.g., genetics, hormones) and extrinsic factors (e.g., skincare habits, pollution).
Natural Plant-Based Actives
- Tea Tree and Neem Oils: Antibacterial properties that reduce P. acnes bacteria.
- Willow Bark Extract: Contains natural salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin.
- Aloe Vera: Soothes inflammation and promotes healing.
- Green Tea Extract: Reduces sebum production and fights free radicals.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Controls oil production and reduces inflammation.
- Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Synthetic Actives
- Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates and unclogs pores but can cause dryness and irritation in sensitive skin.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria but may lead to dryness, redness, peeling, and UV sensitivity.
- Retinoids: Promote cell turnover but can cause significant dryness, irritation, and increased sun sensitivity.
Effective Formulations
For ingredients like salicylic acid to be effective, formulations typically require a pH around 4. This acidic environment helps actives penetrate the skin and treat acne effectively. However, low-pH products can also lead to irritation, dryness, and increased sensitivity, especially in sensitive skin types.
Treatment Options
Cosmetic Products: Designed for mild to moderate acne, these include over-the-counter products with lower concentrations of active ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. They are generally safer for daily use but may take longer to show results.
Pharma Products: Target severe acne with higher concentrations of active ingredients, including prescription-strength retinoids and antibiotics. While effective, they often come with stronger side effects such as dryness, peeling, and irritation, requiring medical supervision.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Choosing between natural and synthetic treatments depends on your skin type and acne severity. Natural actives offer gentler, holistic solutions, while synthetic options may be more potent but come with higher risks. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions for clear, healthy skin.
Photo by Anna Nekrashevich
