Are acne and pimples the same?

You might have come across people commonly using acne and pimples interchangeably. Few refer a pimple on their face as acne which is actually not the right term to use. Acne is a condition whereas pimple is a symptom. Pimple occurs when hair follicle is clogged with dirt and oil. It appears like a red bump on the skin and when it is infected by a bacteria it is filled with pus called pustule or pimple with pus. Acne is a recurring condition and pimples occur once in a while. Therefore, in simple words a person who has acne can have pimples but a person who has pimple might not be having acne.

Causes of acne:

Pimple on nose.

Acne and pimples have almost same causes but sometimes acne can be a cause of some underlying medical condition. So, let us learn what are possible causes of acne and pimples.

1. Excess oil production
2. Pollution
3. Hormonal imbalance like puberty, menstrual cycle, menopause, pregnancy, PCOD
4. Genetics
5. Constipation
6. Humid environments like rainy seasons
7. Excess consumption of fried, refined and sweet food

Types of pimple:

Types of acne

As now we are aware of the cause let us try to understand different types of pimple. Each individual experiences any one or multiple types of pimple. Read further and identify which one you are experiencing.

1. Blackheads: Open pore clogged with dirt, dead skin and oil which turns black due to oxidisation
2. Whiteheads: Closed pore clogged with dirt, dead skin and oil
3. Papules: Red colored bumps with slight pain
4. Pustules: Red colored bumps filled with pus due to bacterial infection 
5. Nodules: Painful hard lumps under the skin
6. Cysts: Painful hard lumps with pus under the skin

If you are experiencing breakout of pimples every now and then it might be acne. Try following the below mentioned steps to deal with it but if you are not able to manage it by yourself do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor.

Supplements for acne and pimples:

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A: Magical supplement for acne.

You must have heard of antioxidants that removes free radicals from your body and reduces the risk of any cell damage. Vitamin A is an antioxidant that prevents your skin cells from damage, clears up acne or pimples, prevents premature ageing, pigmentation, etc. In short, it is a magical boon for skin. So, if you are having acne or pimple breakouts vitamin A supplement will be of great help. A caution for would be mothers and women who are planning to conceive, avoid taking any supplement with vitamin A in it as it can be harmful for the baby.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega 3 fatty acids fights acne

Acne or pimples are accompanied by lot of inflammation i.e. pain and swelling. Omega-3 fatty acids being rich in anti-inflammatory properties can help in reducing inflammation and treating pimples. They also help in regulating the testosterone levels in our body which is one of the cause for overproduction of sebum. Thus, adding omega-3 fatty acids to your regime can prevent your future breakout.

3. Vitamin D:

Vitamin d rich food

You heard it right. Vitamin D is not only good for our bones but it is important for a clear and glowing skin too. According to recent studies, vitamin D carries antibacterial and anti-inflammatory which helps in relieving inflammation and other signs of acne. Adding vitamin D rich food like dairy products, non-veg food, soy products or a supplement was found to be beneficial.

4. Zinc:

Zinc rich food sources

Zinc, the star mineral for skin reduces the oil production and fights bacterial infections. A daily dose of zinc has shown visible difference in people with acne as compared to who did not take. So, do not think twice before adding this immunity booster to your regime.

5. Manjistha

Manjistha powder improves skin health

An evergreen ayurvedic herb loaded with antioxidant properties fights acne, inflammation, pigmentation and stops acne from flaring up. It also helps in balancing hormones and improving digestion which are the leading causes of acne. Therefore, take 1/4-1/2 tsp of this plant based supplement with hot water at bedtime for best results.

I guess now we all can tell whether one is having an acne or a pimple along with their possible causes and treatment. Aren’t you feeling like an expert? If yes, do spread a word of awareness with a smile who is feeling low due to pimples. And do not forget to mention about healthy eating habits and active lifestyle.