Ask Dr. Vivian – All About Acne and Pimples

May 22, 2017

Its the third week of the Ask Dr Vivian series, and we hope that you have benefited by the two previous posts, All About Skin Lightening and Why Do We Need To Go Bare?

This week, Dr. Vivian answers questions on Acne and Pimples, two of the most common conditions that affect millions of women around the world.

We are sure that Dr. Vivian’s answers will provide solutions to many of you who are struggling with pimples and acne.

I have acne all over my face. I have tried everything, even acne medications, but nothing seems to work. And the worst part is that when the acne heals, it leaves very dark scars that refuse to fade. As much as I want to go bare, I can’t because my face looks horrible! Please what can I do? I want to believe it is acne I have because google says so, but still I can’t understand the difference between acne and pimples. Can you please clarify?

Acne is a skin disease while pimples are infected and clogged hair follicles which are seen in acne.

Acne can show up as pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, congested pores, pustules or cysts (deep seated pimples). It is one of the most common skin conditions affecting most people at some point in their lives. All forms of acne start out as a clogged, congested pore. Skin normally sheds its dead cells and pores get blocked because sometimes this process is not complete. Leftover dead cells mix with excess surface oil and block the pores and as a result, the cells, sebum and bacteria get trapped leading to inflammation which shows up as tender, red bumps. These blemishes are seen in areas where there are many oil producing glands (sebaceous glands) mainly on the face, back and chest. A lot can be done to control acne with over the counter preparations. More difficult cases require medical attention.

The dark marks are a response to the inflammation and is known as Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation. These usually fade in 3 to 6 months, but there are products to speed up the process.

I don’t have any acne on my face, but on my back, it is a different story, and since I got pregnant, it has gotten worse. I feel so embarrassed, that I cover my back even in front of my husband. Is there anything I can do to get rid of them? And why do people get pimples on the back anyway?

Acne occurs where there is an abundance of Sebaceous or Oil Glands namely the Face, Chest and Back. Acne is not just a teenage problem as cases of Adult Acne are on the increase.

The major contributing factors to acne breakouts are hormonal imbalance, stress, diet and genetics. Pregnancy may wreak havoc on skin.

Processed, Refined and preservative chemical laden Food and Foods with a high glycaemic index such as processed carbohydrates and refined sugar are the culprits. The glycaemic index measures how a food affects blood sugar levels and hence insulin release. The faster a food breaks down during the digestive process, the higher the glycaemic index. It is believed that the rapid breakdown stimulates a rapid rate of insulin release which in turn stimulates increased oil production and skin cell turnover in the pores providing a feasting ground for bacteria. Foods with a high glycaemic index include Donuts, cake, sweets, white bread, corn flakes and potatoes to mention a few. Reducing your intake of such food may go a long way to help reduce breakouts.

I have heard that there are spot treatments that can take care of acne like toothpaste, Is that true? My problem is I always pick my pimples when they appear on my face because I believe they will dry up and heal faster. Please advise on the best way to treat this.

There are topical agents such and Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid and Crème Dermopurifiante by Biologique Recherche.

You should think twice before you pop another pimple which is a very bad habit. Popping tears the skin which could lead to unsightly, sometimes permanent scarring and your fingers could introduce bacteria which could lead to infection.

If the infection spreads to the sinuses, it could be life threatening! This condition could lead to loss of vision, paralysis and even death…