Acne, a common skin woe, comes in various forms, and blind pimples are one of the most vexing types. These stubborn blemishes can wreak havoc on our skin and self-esteem. But fear not! In this article, we shed light on blind pimples, their causes, and effective remedies to regain your skin’s radiant glow.
What are blind pimples?
Blind pimples, also known as nodules or cystic acne, are the concealed foes of flawless skin. Unlike regular pimples, which form with a visible white or blackhead, these stubborn pimples remain hidden beneath the skin’s surface. They are often painful to touch, can be small or large, and are recognised by their red, swollen appearance1. While the exact cause of blind pimples is not always clear, several factors contribute to their development.
What causes blind pimples?
Blind pimples can occur for various reasons, including:
1. Lifestyle and diet
A lack of proper skincare and hygiene practices, as well as consumption of high-glycemic foods and dairy products2 can contribute to blind pimples. So, be sure to ditch these foods for acne-free days!
Additionally, factors like inadequate sleep and high stress levels3 can exacerbate these blemishes.
2. Bacterial activity
The skin hosts a variety of bacteria, and when certain strains, such as Propionibacterium acnes4, multiply excessively, they can cause inflammation and lead to the development of blind pimples.
3. Hormonal fluctuations
Adolescents undergoing puberty often experience heightened susceptibility to acne outbreaks due to hormonal shifts3. Moreover, women may encounter pimple occurrences linked to their menstrual cycle or even pregnancy. These hormonal imbalances, especially heightened androgens, can lead to elevated levels of sebum production, serving as a trigger for blind pimples. Hence, it’s common to observe these blemishes emerging during puberty and in conjunction with menstruation and stress-related periods.
4. Sebum overproduction
Sebum plays an important role in maintaining skin health. However, excessive sebum production can lead to clogged pores and the overgrowth of bacteria5, fostering an ideal environment for blind pimples to flourish.
5. Family history
If your parents have a history of experiencing acne and blind pimples3, the chances are that you might also develop these skin issues.
What are effective remedies for banishing blind pimples?
Dealing with blind pimples requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses their root causes. While patience is key, the following remedies can help you conquer these hidden pimples and regain your skin’s radiance;
1. Warm compresses
Applying a warm compress to the blind pimple can help open up the pore and soothe the area. To apply warm compress, you may soak a clean cloth in lukewarm water and gently apply it to the affected area for approximately 10 to 15 minutes6.
2. Topical treatments
Topical retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid creams or gels6 are just some examples of topical treatments that can effectively address clogged pores and reduce the formation of blind pimples. However, these treatments can be drying – it would be best to use them sparingly and follow the guidance of a certified dermatologist from a trusted dermatology clinic.
3. Professional intervention
If blind pimples persist despite your best efforts, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can recommend prescription-strength treatments such as oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, or more potent topical treatments.
Conclusion
Blind pimples might pose an annoyance, but armed with the right knowledge and strategies, you can conquer them and bid farewell to these hidden blemishes! Remember, consistency and patience are of utmost importance on your journey to clear, vibrant skin.
If you require assistance in managing blind pimples, other prevalent skin changes, or even need a skin cancer check or digital mole mapping, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr Angeline Yong at Angeline Yong Dermatology. Dr Yong is a highly experienced and MOH-accredited dermatologist who can provide expert guidance on various skin concerns.
References
Whelan, C. (2022, March 11). Blind pimples: What they are and how to get rid of them. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/blind-pimple
Smith, R. N., Mann, N. J., Braue, A., Mäkeläinen, H., & Varigos, G. A. (2007). A low-glycemic-load diet improves symptoms in acne vulgaris patients: a randomized controlled trial. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 86(1), 107–115. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/86.1.107
Blind pimple: Symptoms, causes & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.-a). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22913-blind-pimple#:~:text=Blind%20pimples%20are%20pimples%20
McLaughlin, J., Watterson, S., Layton, A. M., Bjourson, A. J., Barnard, E., & McDowell, A. (2019). Propionibacterium acnes and Acne Vulgaris: New Insights from the Integration of Population Genetic, Multi-Omic, Biochemical and Host-Microbe Studies. Microorganisms, 7(5), 128. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms7050128
Eske, J. (2015, December 15). What is sebum? function, production, benefits, and more. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sebum
Nichols, H. (2023, March 13). Blind pimple: How to get rid of a pimple under the skin. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320250