Acne under the skin, also known as subclinical or cystic acne, is a common skin condition that can be both painful and frustrating to deal with. These types of acne blemishes develop deep within the skin, making them more challenging to treat than surface-level pimples.

In this blog post, we will delve into the causes of acne under skin, explore various treatment options, and share effective prevention strategies to help you maintain a clear and healthy complexion. Read until the end for frequently asked questions about this stubborn skin issue.

Also read: How to choose the best acne treatment

Biggest Take-Aways:

• Combining home remedies, lifestyle changes, and professional guidance can effectively manage acne under skin.

• Natural remedies like tea tree oil and honey can kill acne-causing bacteria and soothe inflammation.

• Maintaining a healthy skin barrier and implementing stress management techniques can help reduce acne breakouts.

• Exposed Skin Care is an effective product that can be incorporated into a skincare regimen to help manage and prevent acne.

The Science Behind Acne Under Skin

What Causes Acne Under Skin?

Acne under skin occurs when the hair follicles, also known as pores, become clogged with a combination of sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria. Several factors contribute to the development of this type of acne:

• Hormones: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly an increase in androgens, can lead to excessive sebum production, contributing to clogged pores and acne formation.

• Genetics: A family history of acne can make you more prone to developing acne under skin.

• Stress: High-stress levels can increase inflammation and sebum production, worsening acne.

• Diet: Certain foods, such as those high in refined carbohydrates, may contribute to acne development.

Why is Acne Under Skin So Difficult to Treat?

Acne under skin can be challenging to treat because it forms deep within the skin layers, making it less responsive to traditional topical treatments. Additionally, these blemishes often take longer to heal due to the inflammation and pressure caused by the trapped oil and bacteria.

Tackling Acne Under Skin: Effective Treatment Options

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Some over-the-counter (OTC) treatments can effectively manage acne under skin. Look for products containing the following active ingredients:

• Salicylic Acid: Helps to unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.

• Retinoids: Increase cell turnover and reduce inflammation, helping unclog pores and preventing acne under skin.

Prescription Medications

If OTC treatments aren't effective, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger medications to treat acne under the skin:

• Topical Retinoids: Stronger than OTC versions, prescription retinoids can help unclog pores and prevent new acne formation

• Oral Antibiotics: These medications can help reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation, improving acne under skin.

• Hormonal Therapy: For women, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or spironolactone can help regulate hormones and decrease sebum production, improving acne under skin.

• Isotretinoin: A powerful oral medication that can be highly effective for severe acne under skin, but must be closely monitored due to potential side effects.

In-Office Procedures

Dermatologists may also recommend in-office procedures to treat acne under skin:

• Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process for acne under skin.

• Chemical Peels: These treatments use acids to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation, which can help improve acne under skin.

• Laser Therapy: Lasers can target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, helping to improve acne under skin.

Prevention Strategies for Acne Under Skin

To minimize the occurrence of acne under skin, consider implementing the following prevention strategies:

• Develop a Consistent Skincare Routine: A gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen should be part of your daily skincare routine.

• Exfoliate Regularly: Regular exfoliation with a gentle product can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.

• Avoid Touching Your Face: Touching your face can introduce bacteria and irritate the skin, increasing the risk of acne under skin.

• Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing activities, such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, to help minimize stress-related acne.

• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall skin health.

Home Remedies to Manage Acne Under Skin: Blind Pimples and Beyond

Acne under skin, commonly referred to as blind pimples, can be challenging to treat due to their deep location beneath the skin's surface. Several home remedies can help manage and improve this stubborn skin issue.

Remember that consistency and patience are key when using home remedies, as improvements may take time to become noticeable.

Gentle Exfoliation

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and prevent acne breakouts, including blind pimples. Using a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid can help keep your skin smooth and your pores clear, reducing the likelihood of developing blind pimples. Be sure not to over-exfoliate, as this can damage your skin barrier and worsen acne.

Steam Treatment

Steaming your face can help open up pores and release trapped oil and debris, which can help treat and prevent blind pimples. Fill a large bowl with hot water and lean over it, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam.

Steam your face for 5-10 minutes, then gently pat your skin dry. Follow up with your regular acne treatments and a moisturizer to keep your skin barrier healthy.

Topical Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a popular natural remedy for acne, as it possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. To use tea tree oil for treating blind pimples, dilute a few drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond oil, and apply it directly to the affected area.

Never apply undiluted tea tree oil directly to your skin, which can cause irritation and dryness.

Warm Compresses

Applying a warm compress to blind pimples can help soothe inflammation and encourage the pimple to come to a head. Soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and gently press it against the affected area for a few minutes. Repeat this process several times a day, as needed, to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

Zinc Supplements

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in skin health, and studies have shown that people with acne tend to have lower levels of zinc in their bodies. Taking zinc supplements may help improve acne breakouts, including blind pimples.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

A healthy, balanced diet can significantly impact your skin's health and help prevent acne breakouts. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide your skin with the essential nutrients it needs to stay healthy and resilient. Avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods may also help reduce inflammation and prevent blind pimples from forming.

Stress Management

Stress can contribute to acne breakouts, including the development of many blind pimples, by causing hormonal imbalances and increasing inflammation in the body. Implementing stress management techniques, such as regular exercise, deep breathing exercises, meditation, and getting adequate sleep, can help manage stress and reduce the likelihood of acne breakouts.

It's important to remember that while these home remedies may help alleviate acne under skin, they may not be effective for everyone or in all cases. If your blind pimples persist or worsen, determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific skin condition.

Additionally, be sure to patch-test any new remedy on a small skin area before applying it to the entire face to check for any adverse reactions.

In conclusion, managing acne under skin, especially blind pimples, can be challenging but possible with a combination of home remedies, lifestyle changes, and professional guidance.

Maintaining a healthy skin barrier, implementing stress management techniques, and using gentle yet effective acne treatments can improve your skin's appearance and reduce acne breakouts. You'll be on your way to clearer, healthier skin with patience and consistency.

Adjusting Your Lifestyle to Reduce Acne Under Skin

Alongside using effective acne treatments, making lifestyle adjustments can help manage acne under skin and prevent future breakouts. Consider the following lifestyle changes to improve your skin's health:

• Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity helps improve blood circulation and reduce stress, which can help manage acne breakouts.

• Get Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep each night, as sleep deprivation can increase inflammation and contribute to acne development.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush toxins from your body and maintain overall skin health, potentially reducing the risk of acne under skin.

Exposed Skin Care: An Effective Solution for Managing Acne

Exposed Skin Care is a popular and effective skincare line designed to help manage acne, including acne under skin. By incorporating a unique combination of science-based active ingredients and natural extracts, Exposed Skin Care targets acne from multiple angles while promoting overall skin health.

Here are some benefits of using Exposed Skin Care products to manage acne:

• Combats Acne-Causing Bacteria: Exposed Skin Care contains benzoyl peroxide, an ingredient known for its powerful antibacterial properties, which helps eliminate acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.

• Exfoliates and Unclogs Pores: The inclusion of salicylic acid helps to gently exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, preventing the formation of acne under skin.

• Promotes Skin Cell Renewal: Using natural ingredients, such as green tea extract and passionflower extract, promotes skin cell renewal and reduces redness and inflammation, leading to a clearer and healthier complexion.

• Balances Skin Moisture: Exposed Skin Care products are formulated with hydrating and soothing ingredients like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid, which help maintain your skin's moisture balance without causing excess oiliness.

• Suitable for All Skin Types: The gentle yet effective formulations of Exposed Skin Care make it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

By incorporating Exposed Skin Care products into your skincare routine, you can effectively manage acne under skin and achieve a clearer, healthier complexion.

Conclusion

Managing acne under skin, especially blind and other under-the-skin pimples, can be challenging but achievable. You can create a personalized acne treatment plan to address your unique skin concerns by employing a combination of home remedies and lifestyle changes and seeking professional guidance when needed.

Home remedies and preventive measures, such as maintaining a healthy skin barrier and implementing stress management techniques, can help reduce the occurrence of acne breakouts and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

Incorporating natural remedies like tea tree oil and honey can help kill acne-causing bacteria, soothe inflammation, and minimize the risk of skin irritation. These gentle yet effective treatments can work harmoniously with your skin's natural healing process, making them suitable for various skin types. However, it's essential to remember that consistency and patience are key when using home remedies, as improvements may take time to become noticeable.

You can effectively manage and prevent acne under skin by being proactive in your skincare routine and incorporating a balanced mix of home remedies, lifestyle changes, and Exposed Skin Care.

With patience, consistency, and dedication to your skincare regimen, you'll be well on your way to achieving clearer, healthier skin, free from the frustration and discomfort of blind pimples and other types of acne.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I pop acne under skin?

It's essential to avoid popping acne under skin, as it can lead to further inflammation, infection, and even scarring.

How long does acne under skin take to heal?

Healing times for acne under skin can vary based on the severity and type of treatment used. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for these blemishes to heal.

Can makeup cause acne under skin?

Makeup itself may not cause acne under skin, but using heavy, comedogenic products or not properly removing makeup can contribute to clogged pores and acne development. Look for non-comedogenic makeup products, and always remove makeup thoroughly before bed.

Is acne under skin related to hormonal imbalances?

Hormonal imbalances, particularly increased androgens, can contribute to acne under skin by increasing sebum production and inflammation. Hormonal therapy may be an effective treatment option for women with hormone-related acne.