Pimple prevention

What are pimples?

Also known as spots, zits, papules and pustules; pimples are inflammatory skin conditions ,appearing as small circular, convex projections, on the skin surface, at times filled with pus and  with reddish coloration of skin around them. They are formed due to excessive production of sebum (skin oil) in the sebaceous glands, which on obstruction in the sebaceous duct leaks in its environment and gets infected. Infection is usually caused by Propionibacterium acne but occasionally, another type of bacteria known as; Staphylococcus aureus also infect the sebum. An immediate reaction to the appearance of pimples is an urge to get away with them like itching, and influenced by this urge many people squeeze or pop up the pimples to extract or drain. It is a harmful act on account of causing the spread of infectious material over larger area of skin.(find out the best acne solution here)

What is the prevalence and Cause of pimples?

Statistics reveal that around 90 % of boys and girls develop pimples during adolescence. Occurrence of pimples is however not restricted to teenage only as it is more prevalent in girls of 25-30 years age group. Cause of pimples in this age group is supposed to be, the use of birth control pills, which upset the hormonal balance with consequent excessive production of sebum and ultimate development of pimples. Cause of pimples in teenagers too, is the hormonal imbalance which is a natural phenomenon. In addition to hormonal imbalance, other factors like acnegenic diets and some chemical precursors too play a role in the development of pimples. Arginine is an amino acid which prompts viral infection while lysine on contrary curbs the trend. It is therefore, imperative to avoid Arginine rich foods, like, peanuts and other nuts, seeds, whole wheat products, chocolate and coffee etc. On the other hand, Tuna, Black bean, Beef and skimmed mil contain more Lysine

What is conventional pimple prevention?

More than going after the hormonal imbalance, the conventional methods focus upon improving general health, personal hygiene, eating habits and lifestyle. Following are a few recommendations which do not sound much sophisticated though, are very useful practically:

• Wash the face twice daily, preferably as first thing in the morning and just prior to going to bed. Don’t overdo it, as it may do more harm than good.
  
• Keep your body well hydrated by drinking 8 – 10 glasses of water daily and eat vegetables and fruits.
  
• Sound sleep is very useful to prevent acne.
  
• Keep your gastro intestinal tract in very good health as constipation is an important cause of pimples. Ensure sufficient vegetative fiber in your diet. It is a good practice to consume a glass of hot milk .containing one table spoon of psyllium, allowed to soak for at least five minutes prior to consumption. Take psyllium an hour or so before going to bed.
  
• Use clay mask as it cleans oil and opens the clogged pores.
  
• Use 20 % Benzoyl peroxide application.
  
• Do not extract pimples with hands. Avoid touch to pimples.

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