We all get breakouts, they ruin good photo ops, leave behind unwanted blemishes and decrease our self-confidence. Don’t get us started on those stubborn pimples that are irritating, annoying and painful—yes, the ones that leave both physical and emotional scars! In Australia alone, 85% of adults experience acne, but what is it?
Acne is a common skin condition that can result in various types of blemishes. Some include pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads—but never fear! Most breakouts are completely preventable and easily treated.
FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO ACNE:
There are four main causes of acne, these include:
- The skin producing too much sebum (oil) which clogs the pores and causes breakouts and blemishes
- The build-up of dead skin cells due to a lack of cleansing and exfoliation, which accumulate on the skin and clog the pores, causing blemishes.
- Bacteria existing on the skin that can cause irritation within the pores.
- Skin inflammation due to a lack of hydration, leading to redness and pore blockage.
TYPES OF BREAKOUTS:
Not all breakouts are the same! Dermatologists have categorised six types of breakouts, of which have varying causes and differing treatments. Knowing the different types of blemishes will assist in the effectiveness of their treatment.
1. Whiteheads
Whiteheads are the most common breakouts and are easily identifiable. Whiteheads appear as pimples with rounded white ‘heads’. They are most frequently located on oily areas of the skin, such as the T-zone, which consists of the forehead and chin area. Although tempting, its important to refrain from popping the whitehead, to prevent scarring and bacterial infection. Instead, sanitise the area with a gentle cleanser and the blemish will treat itself.
2. Blackheads
Blackheads are a common form of acne that is caused by the build-up of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin and within open pores. Whiteheads, which are closed comedones, differ from blackheads, which are considered ‘open’ comedones as the pore is not obstructed. Despite common misconception, blackheads are not blackened by dirt, instead, leave the dead cells exposed to open air, which leads to oxidation and results in a darkening of colour.
Blackheads can be prevented by exfoliating weekly and cleansing daily to minimise the build-up of dead skin cells, most importantly around the T zone area where excessive sebum is produced.
3. Pustules
Acne pustules are inflamed blemishes that are large in size with an obvious white ‘head’ and are often tender to touch. Pustules are caused by large build-ups of oil that clog the skin and break down pores, resulting in inflammation and infection. Pustules are more sensitive than regular white or black heads and it is important to resist the urge to pop them - your skin will thank you for it!
4. Papules
Papules are smaller, raised areas of skin tissue that occur as a result of blocked hair follicles due to the production of excess oil, causing temporary inflammation. Papules are often called skin lesions, which refer to changes in the skin's colour or texture. Most papules develop into pustules, however it is essential that you do not pop these blemishes as it can lead to future scarring. Instead, aim to focus on their prevention by frequently cleansing the skin and applying moisturiser daily.
5. Cysts
Cysts lie deeper within the skin than most blemishes, and are caused by blockages in ducts, causing the pore to become inflamed and swollen. Cysts appear as larger bumps on the skin, appearing like soft blisters, however can feel like harder lumps when they are deeper below the surface of the skin. It is paramount to seek medical advice if a cyst is persistent and causing pain, however most cysts will resolve themselves. Hot, wet compresses can be applied to the cyst to relieve pain and itching; however, they can be prevented through consistent daily cleansing and weekly exfoliation.
6. Nodules
Nodules are a more severe form of acne, presenting as large, inflamed breakouts that effect the deepest layers of the skin. Nodules are caused by bacterial infections of the skin, most commonly by the bacteria ‘Propionibacterium acnes’ or ‘P. acnes’, that cause painful, pus-filled pimples deep within the skin. Nodules are treated mostly with medications, if the blemishes persist seek medical advice.
HOW TO AVOID BREAKOUTS:
When we see a breakout waiting to happen, there is only one thought on our minds: How do I get rid of the pimple fast? Unfortunately, there is no miracle cure to make them fully disappear, but there are ways to prevent them from occurring as frequently.
1. Cleansing daily
Washing the face removes dead skin cells and sebum build up, this prevents pore blockage and minimises the frequency and severity of blemishes.
2. Topical treatments:
Breakouts tend to occur in certain areas known as ‘problem areas’, most frequently the chin, nose and forehead. Specified topical creams and serums can reduce the frequency of breakouts within these problem areas and prevent blemishes.
3. Avoid harsh scrubbing:
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and is essential to prevent unwanted blemishes. However, excessive exfoliation and scrubbing can irritate the skin and lead to the production of excess oil, making acne breakouts worse and more frequent.
4. Stop popping those pimples!
While it is tempting to pop your pimples… it can do more harm than good, and often results in inflammation and scarring. Topical treatments can be used to reduce the redness and appearance of breakouts, although they may take some time to work, they can also prevent new pimples from forming and are much more beneficial for your skin in the long run.
Unwanted blemishes are the ultimate buzz kill. Understanding the various types of breakouts will assist in preventing them in the future and increase the effectiveness of their treatment. Click here to shop our wide range of organic donkey milk skincare products, that are carefully curated from certified organic agriculture to soften, soothe and protect the skin while minimising the effect of breakouts and blemishes.