Is there a difference between acne and pimples?

Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
Updated on August 31, 2024
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The difference between acne and pimples is that actually, they are of the same type. Acne is commonly known as ordinary acne, and can occur at any age stage, but is most prevalent among teenagers, hence the term "acne." It is actually a chronic inflammatory disease of the hair follicle sebaceous gland, and pimples are one type of acne. The various types of lesions in acne are caused by inflammation at different depths of the hair follicles and subsequent reactions. This includes pimples caused by blockage of the hair follicle sebaceous gland duct, as well as superficial pustular inflammation at the hair follicle opening, papules, nodules, cysts, and scars, all of which are categorized as acne. Pimples are the initial form of acne; the lesions are cone-shaped papules consistent with the hair follicles, and are divided into whiteheads and blackheads. Whiteheads are also known as closed comedones, while blackheads are called open comedones. Inside whiteheads, there is a yellow-white tofu dregs-like substance, while blackheads are oxidized whiteheads that have been exposed over time.

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Written by Liu Gang
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Can acne be squeezed?

Acne, commonly known as acne vulgaris, is somewhat related to the vigorous secretion of one's own sebaceous glands. Spicy and irritating foods or staying up late can also cause it. If the acne is in the inflammatory phase and is very red and painful, try not to squeeze it, as this can easily lead to scarring or pits later on. If an individual acne lesion has become purulent and feels soft to the touch, you can prick it with a needle and squeeze out the pus, which can speed up recovery later. However, it is still recommended to use standard medications and combined red and blue light therapy, as this is less likely to cause skin damage and the recovery effects are generally better. It is also advisable to develop good dietary and lifestyle habits. (Doctor's answer is for reference only, administer medication under the guidance of a professional physician, do not blindly medicate.)

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Written by Zhang Jian Bo
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Can acne and pimples wear a mask?

The patient has acne and chooses to wear a mask, which does have a certain impact on the acne. The acne appears around the mouth area, and wearing a mask will cover the affected area. Although it can protect one's health, it may exacerbate the symptoms of acne. Active treatment for acne is necessary, involving proper hydration by drinking small amounts of water frequently and maintaining a light diet, including foods high in vitamins. When going out, it is crucial to wear a mask for personal safety, especially during the epidemic prevention phase. More attention should be paid to self-protection. After returning home, the acne-affected area should be promptly treated with medication, and cleanliness and hygiene should be maintained.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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How is gingivitis treated in adolescence?

Gingivitis during adolescence may also be due to the patient's negligence in oral hygiene, chronic staying up late, binge eating and drinking, or frequent consumption of spicy and irritating foods, leading to poor oral hygiene. However, some gingivitis in adolescence is also due to changes in the patient's internal sex hormones, which temporarily enhance the inflammation of the gums. Generally, some inflammation can subside on its own after adolescence, but typical gingival inflammation cannot completely heal. At this time, it is advised that patients pay attention to oral hygiene. They could consider dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, and combine this with some oral medications for treatment, which generally can lead to recovery. If patients often neglect their diet, it is recommended that they adjust to a healthy dietary lifestyle and undergo regular check-ups, which can generally lead to recovery.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Will keratosis pilaris fade after puberty?

Keratosis pilaris can potentially fade after puberty. This condition is a genetically induced skin disease characterized by abnormal keratinization around the hair follicles. The disease is more common among children and adolescents with dry skin, and the rash tends to diminish as one ages. Keratosis pilaris occurs due to keratinization at the openings of hair follicles, which affects the growth of fine hair, making the skin feel rough, similar to goosebumps. Currently, there is no cure for keratosis pilaris, but symptoms can be improved using certain medications. Topically, keratolytics or skin softeners can be applied to alleviate symptoms and smooth the skin. Additionally, taking oral vitamin A or consuming foods rich in vitamin A can be beneficial for this condition.

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Can children's acne be cured?

Acne in children can be cured. However, if treated properly, but lifestyle factors such as sleep, diet, stress, bowel movements, and environment are neglected, acne may recur. Acne, medically referred to as acne vulgaris, is a chronic inflammatory disease of the hair follicle sebaceous glands. It can affect appearance and can occur at all ages, though it is most common in adolescents. The development of acne is mainly related to several factors: androgens, increased sebum production, excessive keratinization at the opening of the hair follicle sebaceous glands, infection with Propionibacterium acnes, and subsequent inflammatory responses. Other contributing factors for some patients include genetics, immunity, endocrine disorders, emotions, stress, diet, and staying up late. In treating acne, the main principles are to reduce sebum, dissolve keratin, kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, and regulate hormone levels, which can lead to healing. However, it is important to maintain a light diet daily, avoiding spicy, fried foods, hot pots, barbecues, and beverages, as well as preventing staying up late, as long-term lack of sleep can also cause recurrent acne outbreaks.