How to Treat Pimples Under Skin: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Pimples under the skin, often referred to as blind pimples or cystic pimples, can be both painful and frustrating. Unlike surface pimples, these deeper blemishes don’t form a whitehead and can be harder to treat. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and effective treatment options can help you manage these stubborn pimples.

Symptoms of Pimples Under the Skin

Blind pimples typically manifest as tender, inflamed bumps beneath the skin’s surface. Here are some common symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness: These pimples can be painful to the touch.
• Redness and swelling: The affected area often appears red and swollen.
• Absence of a head: Unlike regular pimples, blind pimples do not develop a pus-filled head.

Common Locations

Blind pimples can appear in various places on the body, including:

• Pimples under the nose: Often caused by excess oil and bacteria trapped in the pores.
• Pimples under the armpit: These can be particularly painful due to friction and sweat.
• Pimples under the chin: Commonly influenced by hormonal changes and stress.

Causes of Pimples Under the Skin

Several factors contribute to the formation of blind pimples:

• Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels, especially during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy, can trigger blind pimples.
• Excess oil production: Overactive sebaceous glands can clog pores and lead to pimples.
• Bacterial buildup: Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria can cause inflammation and infection in clogged pores.
• Stress: Increased stress levels can exacerbate acne by prompting the release of stress hormones.

Stages of Blind Pimples

Understanding the stages of blind pimples can help in managing them effectively:

1. Formation: A red, tender bump forms under the skin.
2. Inflammation: The bump becomes more swollen and painful as it fills with pus.
3. Healing: The pimple gradually reduces in size and pain as the body reabsorbs the pus and heals the area.

Treatment for Blind Pimples

Effective blind pimple treatment requires a combination of home care and, in some cases, medical intervention:

Home Treatments

• Warm compress: Applying a warm compress can help reduce pain and encourage the pimple to come to a head.
• Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
• Avoid popping: Never attempt to pop a blind pimple, as this can lead to infection and scarring.
• Tea tree oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation and fight bacteria.

Medical Treatments

• Prescription medications: A dermatologist may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to reduce bacterial infection.
• Corticosteroid injections: For severe cases, a doctor might inject a corticosteroid directly into the pimple to reduce inflammation quickly.
• Drainage: In some cases, a dermatologist might need to drain the pimple if it does not resolve on its own.

Preventive Measures

Taking steps to prevent blind pimples can reduce their occurrence:

• Maintain good hygiene: Regularly cleanse your face and body to remove excess oil and dirt.
• Use non-comedogenic products: Always opt for the skincare and those makeup products that do not clog pores.
• Manage stress: Practice stress-relief techniques like yoga, meditation, or exercise.
• Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support skin health.

Conclusion

Dealing with pimples under the skin can be challenging, but understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can make a significant difference. Whether you’re dealing with pimples under the nose, armpit, or chin, effective home treatments and professional medical advice can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. Remember, patience and consistency are key in managing and preventing these stubborn blemishes.