Is There A Difference Between Acne & Pimples? Word Is — There Is

Prep yourself because I’m going to bombard you with a lot of facts. Context: If your skin is sensitive, and you struggle with flare-ups frequently, you might want to diagnose the issue. Is it a pimple? Or acne? Because how do you go about treating the condition if you don’t know what it is? First — our facts. 

Pimples and acne develop as a result of an overproduction of oil — sebum — by your oil-producing (sebaceous) glands. These glands are connected to your pores via a follicle through which your hair grows. When your glands go into overdrive, they produce more oil. This build-up of oil, coupled with dead skin cells, can block the follicle. This plug can lead to inflammation and flare-ups. 

But what’s the difference between acne and pimples, and how do you prevent them? Read on!

The Difference Between Acne & Pimples

Here’s acne vs pimples for you:

That’s the basic acne vs pimples difference for you. 

Causes Of Acne And Pimples

1. Puberty: A hormone called androgen spikes in girls and boys at the onset of puberty. This increase can cause your oil-producing glands to enlarge — which leads to an increase in the production of oil. The more the oil, the higher the chances of a breakout. 

2. Diet: A carbohydrate-rich diet has been linked to an increased probability of developing acne. These foods are highly processed and can lead to a surge in blood sugar levels. This triggers the production of insulin, and increased insulin can trigger the production of sebum. Some of these foods include bagels, chips, and bread. 

3. Menstruation: Before your periods start, progesterone and oestrogen levels drop — which can trigger an increase in the production of sebum. 

4. Environment: Too much humidity and pollution have been linked to an increase in the probability of breaking out. 

5. Pregnancy: Levels of androgen spike even during pregnancy. More oil, more clogged pores, and more breakouts. 

6. Harsh Products: Using stripping, harsh, or abrasive self-care products can hurt the skin, and lead to inflammation, redness, and break-outs. Even excessive exfoliation can irritate the skin. 

7. Oil-Based Products: Some products are extremely comedogenic. This means that they’re more likely to clog your pores. Stay away from oil-based makeup or products containing mineral oil and lanolin if your skin is acne-prone — especially foundations. 

8. Makeup: Heavy-duty makeup is another factor that can irritate your skin. Even leaving your makeup on overnight can clog your pores. The residual build-up can mix with all the dirt and bacteria sitting on your skin for hours on end and clog your pores in the process.

9. Stress: Studies suggest a link between breakouts and stress. When you’re stressed, your body releases corticotropin-releasing hormones. CRH triggers the production of oil, and this leads to plugs and clogs in the pores — eventually manifesting as a breakout. 

10. Medications: Certain medications containing drugs like corticosteroids, testosterone or lithium can trigger acne. 

How To Treat Acne & Pimples

1. Try looking for a spot-treatment gel containing Salicylic Acid. This BHA is excellent at treating acne by cleansing your pores and exfoliating your skin. 

2. Apply ice to the zit to calm inflammation and redness. Make sure you’re wrapping the cube in a cloth to create a buffer between the ice and your skin.

3. Look for a cleanser containing either Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid.

4. Skip the toner. A toner containing astringents can disrupt the skin barrier. This can cause more damage in the process. 

5. Change your pillowcase frequently. Your pillowcase can become a breeding ground for bacteria, dirt, oils, and build-up. Constant contact can lead to acne. Wash your pillowcases once a week. Switching to silk pillowcases is another option because it’s gentler on the skin. 

6. Opt for a lightweight, gel-based moisturiser to prevent blocking your pores.

MyGlamm Recommends

Now that you know the diff between acne and pimples, and what causes them, here are some skincare products that can help you treat them.

1. MyGlamm WIPEOUT Oil & Acne Free Summer Duo

PSA: You need to stop giving in to the packaging and scent of a product, and start looking beyond the superficiality of aesthetics. Dirt, bacteria, and other build-up are notorious for triggering acne. That’s why enlisting this expert germ-scavenging, bacteria-guzzling body wash and face wash is non-negotiable. This power–packed duo’s stellar line-up includes acne-soothing pro lavender and antibacterial neem. Just slather your skin with these cocktails before starting and ending your day, and notice the difference. 

2. St. Botanica Neem, Tea Tree & Basil Anti Acne Clay Mask

Price: INR 499

Buy It Here

Have you heard? Clay excels at absorbing all that built-up oil from the surface. Neem’s antibacterial powers are commendable. Tea Tree and Basil guzzle up acne, blackheads, and whiteheads like champs. You’re going to want the power of four in any anti-acne product, and this one has it. If that’s not enough, this mask contains Turmeric that reinstates your glow as well as Vitamin that hydrates and moisturises inside-out. Just apply this mask on freshly-cleansed skin, and let it work its magic for 20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. 

3. St. Botanica Neem, Tea Tree & Basil Anti Acne Face Wash

Price: INR 340

Buy It Here

This face-wash is endowed with similar acne-guzzling, skin-soothing properties as the previous face-mask thanks to its composition of Neem, Tea Tree, and Basil. And for those with sensitive skin types, fret not. Because this formula is embellished with the goodness of rose and aloe vera. While rose promotes an even-toned texture, aloe vera soothes and moisturises the skin. 

4. Organic Harvest Acne Control Face Wash

Image alt - Organic Harvest Acne Control Face Wash

Price: INR 175

Buy It Here

This face wash is power-packed with the anti-acne potency of neem and Tea Tree Oil. It also minimises the appearance of scars and blemishes and moisturises the skin thoroughly. Get it now!

Now you know the difference between acne & pimples, and how to treat them safely and effectively.

Also Read

1. Benefits Of Retinol For Acne: Does the anti-ageing Retinol truly have the potential to soothe and treat your acne? A lot of studies attest to the benefits of this elixir for the same; but how does it work? Find out. 

2. Whiteheads VS Blackheads: While whiteheads and blackheads are both types of acne, they’re not the same. So how do you identify what that flare-up of yours is, and how do you go about treating and preventing the condition? This guide contains all your answers.  

3. How To Remove Pimple Scars At Home: Though struggling with a pimple is a hassle in itself, you’re hardly through with dealing with the stubborn flare-up after it has settled. Enter: scars. Yeah. How do you deal with these scars at home anyway?

4. Best Acne Scar & Spot Treatment: What’s the best way to treat acne? Because this condition is pretty delicate, and one wrong move can intensify the condition. Here are all your options.

5. Makeup for Acne Prone Skin : Find the perfect method to apply makeup properly on acne-prone skin!
6. retinoid vs retinol: Retinoid and Retinol are not entirely different and not exactly the same. Read on to know all the deets about these two skincare ingredients!