Acne is one of the most common skin conditions which affect the face and the body. A pimple is the result of pores and oil glands getting blocked. There are various reasons for pimples popping up almost anywhere and there could hardly be anyone who has not seen them or has not experienced them. A break or two has been experienced by all during a lifetime. Another impressive aspect about pimples is that they make it a point to appear at all the wrong times: weddings, job interviews, first date, prom and school pictures, etc.

Who are affected by pimples?

There is no age factor when it comes to getting affected by pimples. However, teenagers and young adults are more prone to reoccurrence. At the same time, it has been found that some individuals are vulnerable for most part of their lives. Acne outbreaks can also affect men and women in their 50’s and60’s.

What are the most common types of pimples?

Whiteheads: These types of pimples remain below the surface of the skin.

Blackheads: These pimples have a blackish appearance and are found on the skin surface. Their dark color gives the impression that the cause for their appearance is dirty skin. However, it is far from the truth.

Papules: These appear in the form of small lumps on the skin and are larger in size than the pimples and pink in color. Even a slight touch to these papules elicits a slight, sharp pain.

Pustules: These pimples have a distinctive appearance because they are red at the bottom and yellowish at the top because of the presence of pus.

Nodules: These pimples are solidly imbedded in the skin. They are normally larger in size.

Cysts: This is a type of pimple which is painful as it has pus. Scarring is possible when this pimple appears.

The signs and symptoms of pimples include pain, pus, scarring and intense redness.

What are probable causes of pimples?

•    Hormones

•    Birth control pills

•    Pregnancy

•    Menstruation

•    Heredity

•    Cosmetics

•    Medication

Treatment for pimples:

Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin E, therapeutic zinc and niacin are known to work wonders with pimples as they provide the necessary nourishment to skin to keep it healthy and glowing.

Grandma’s Home Remedies for Pimples:

Fenugreek paste: Ground the leaves of the vegetable and make a fine paste. This paste should be applied at night. In the morning, it should be washed off with warm water. Blackheads, in particular, are known to respond to this treatment.

Orange peel: The skin part of the orange is grounded and mixed with water. This combination works quite effectively in treating pimples.

Lemon: To reduce the size and strength of the pimples, lemon juice should be applied.

Garlic: This is a blood purifier. Eating three garlic cloves would give wonderful results. Rubbing raw garlic on the affected skin several times a day will aid in making the skin clear.

Coriander and Mint juice: Coriander juice mixed with turmeric should be applied to the face every night. Alternatively, mint juice can also replace coriander juice. This is a very helpful herbal remedy to tackle pimples.

Hot Epsom Salt Baths: Hot Epsom salt baths taken twice a week are known as effective treatments for acne.

Cucumber: For the treatment of pimples and blackheads apply grated cucumber over the face, neck and eyes.

Pimple Prevention Tips:

Make it a practice to keep the skin clean by regularly cleaning it with a mild cleanser

Refrain from picking, pinching or squeezing a pimple.

Shaving should be done with caution.

Purchase skin care products which suit your skin.