Cysts vs. Pimples
Let’s talk about cysts vs. pimples – what are the differences between them? Pimples are small, red, and inflamed bumps that appear on the surface of the skin. They are commonly called zits, whiteheads, or blemishes. Pimples form when the pores of the skin become blocked with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. When the pore becomes blocked, it traps the sebum (oil) inside. This can cause the sebum to harden and create a clog in a sebaceous gland. The bacteria that are also present in the pore can cause inflammation.
Cysts, on the other hand, are large, pus-filled bumps that form deep below the surface of the skin. Cysts are often painful and can cause scarring. Cysts form when the pores of the skin become blocked with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. However, unlike pimples, cysts do not have a way to drain to the surface of the skin. As a result, they continue to grow larger and fill with pus.
Sebaceous Cysts vs. Pimples: Common Causes
The cause of sebaceous cysts is not fully understood. However, they are thought to be caused by a build-up of sebum (oil) in the sebaceous glands. Cysts can also be caused by an infection or inflammation of the sebaceous glands. Cysts can also be hormonal, which is why they are often seen in teenage boys and girls.
Pimples are most commonly caused by a build-up of sebum (oil) and dead skin cells in the pores of the skin. This can be caused by hormonal changes, stress, diet, or certain medications. Pimples can also be caused by an infection of the hair follicles (folliculitis) or the oil glands (sebaceous glands).
Other Types of Acne
In addition to pimples and cysts, there are other types of acne. These include:
- Blackheads: Blackheads are small, black bumps that form on the surface of the skin. They are caused by a build-up of oil and dead skin cells. Blackheads are not necessarily a sign of poor hygiene.
- Nodules: Nodules are large, hard bumps that form deep below the surface of the skin. Nodules are often painful and can cause scarring.
- Pustules: Pustules are small, pus-filled bumps that form on the surface of the skin. Pustules are similar to pimples, but they are larger and more inflamed.
Cysts vs. Pimples: Preventing Methods
It’s very hard to prevent sebaceous cysts because the cause is not fully understood. However, you can help to prevent cysts by keeping your skin clean and free of oil and other irritants. You should also avoid picking or squeezing at any bumps on your skin.
Pimples are most commonly caused by a build-up of sebum (oil) and dead skin cells in the pores of the skin. This can be prevented by keeping your skin clean and free of oil and other irritants. You should also avoid picking or squeezing at any bumps on your skin.
How to Treat Cystic Acne?
Dermatology offers a few different ways to treat cystic acne. These include:
- Topical treatments: Topical treatments (ointments, creams, cleansers), such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids, can help to kill the bacteria that cause acne. They can also help to reduce inflammation.
- Oral medications: Oral medications, such as antibiotics or birth control pills, can help to reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria that cause acne.
- Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is a medication that is taken orally. It is a potent medication that is used to treat severe acne. Isotretinoin can have serious side effects, so it should only be used as a last resort.
- Chemical peels: Chemical peels can help to exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of acne.
Treating Cystic Acne vs. Treating Regular Acne
What about treating cysts vs. pimples? The treatment of cystic acne is often different from the treatment of regular acne. This is because cystic acne is more severe and can cause scarring. As a result, more aggressive treatments, such as oral medications or isotretinoin, are often necessary.
If you feel like you cannot control the growth of your acne with over-the-counter treatments, you should see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help to determine the best course of treatment for your acne.
Treating Acne at Home: What Can You Do?
Acne is a serious skin condition, but there are things that you can do at home to help control it. These include:
- Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser dedicated to acne-prone skin.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Keep your hair clean and out of your face.
- Avoid picking at or squeezing your pimples. This can cause scarring.
- Use oil-free cosmetics and sunscreens.
- Avoid triggers, such as stress, that can make your acne worse.
- Wash your towels and sheets frequently.
Cysts vs. Pimples: Summary
Cysts and pimples are both types of acne. Cysts are larger and more severe than pimples. They can cause scarring and are often painful. Pimples are smaller and less severe. They are not usually painful and do not typically cause scarring.
Acne is a serious skin condition that can be difficult to treat. If over-the-counter treatments do not work, you should see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help to determine the best course of treatment for your acne.
At home, you can help to control your acne by washing your face twice a day, avoiding touching your face, and using oil-free cosmetics and sunscreens. You should also avoid picking at or squeezing your pimples. This can cause scarring and make your acne worse by spreading the bacteria. You should also wash your towels and sheets frequently to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Now you know more about cysts vs. pimples. You also know how to treat acne at home and when to see a dermatologist. Thanks for reading!
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