Don’t we all wish for a smooth, glowing and clear skin? But alas, not every one of us is blessed with such good genes. If there is one thing which make your good mood spiral downwards, it is definitely spotting a blemish on your beautiful face. Not only do these blemishes affect your overall appearance, for some people it can have a deeper impact in terms of having a negative impact psychologically as well. Though blemishes are a part and parcel of our daily lives, for some people it can pose as an even more serious threat.
So what exactly are these blemishes?
What Are Blemishes?
Blemishes is a broader term used for any kind of mark on your skin. There are different types of blemishes that can develop on your face such as, whiteheads, blackheads, age spot, pustule, post-acne mark, skin discoloration or any other kind of mark.
A majority of these blemishes pose a threat only to our appearance, however, in some cases, they are an indicator of various underlying issues. It is common for every individual to deal with blemishes on face at least once in their lifetime. You can find these blemishes developing on any part of your body, but you will majorly find them on your face, upper arms, back or chest. In fact, any part of the body which as open pores or hair follicles is prone to developing blemishes.
Many people tend to ignore these blemishes, thinking that it would disappear on its own. But not many realize that when you leave the blemishes without treating it, it can develop into a more serious form of skin condition.
In simple terms, you can define blemishes as any kind of skin imperfections.
How Do Blemishes Form?
In most of the cases, blemishes usually form when the pores on your skin get clogged or blocked because of the excess production of the sebum oil. This is a natural oil that our skin produces. The increase in the production of sebum oil can occur due to various reasons such as the presence of male testosterone (which is present in females as well). Any kind of increase or sensitivity towards this testosterone can increase the production of this oil.
When this excess oil appears on this skin, it blocks all the pores as there is accumulation of dead skin cells along with the oil. All of this results in the development of blackheads or whiteheads.
Since the blocked pores are airtight, they form the perfect breeding ground for the bacteria P. acnes which are the primary reason for inflamed, red and painful blemishes on your face.
How to Get Rid Of Blemishes?
Whether these blemishes are a threat to our overall condition or not, it is best to get rid of them by opting for any of the below listed effective treatments. However, before you try them out, you should get your blemishes checked by a certified dermatologist. This will help you in understanding the root cause of your blemishes and in choosing the right treatment, so that you can have a blemish-free skin.
- Oral Medications – Oral medications along with certain topical medications can help you in successfully getting rid of the blemishes, especially those which fall under the severe category. Your dermatologist will most probably prescribe oral antibiotics such as Tetracycline. On an average, it can take up to six weeks for you to see positive results, however, this again varies from individual to individual. Depending upon the type of blemishes you have, your doctor can also prescribe birth control pills to treat the blemishes.
- Topical Medications – Topical medications are usually the most common treatment method prescribed by the dermatologists. These are generally quite effective in treating all the common types of blemishes on face. If your blemishes are in the mild to medium category, you might be prescribed topical lotions or creams such as adapalene, tretinoin and tazarotene, all of which contain Vitamin A.
- Topical Creams – Apart from this, your doctor can also prescribe topical creams which contain salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Available easily over-the-counter, creams and gels with these ingredients help in removing the blemishes by killing the bacteria and reducing inflammation. Creams which contain Retin-A, Azelaic Acid and Resorcinol are also effective.
- Chemical Peels – Chemical Peels are a cosmetic treatment which help in getting rid of the blemishes by removing the skin’s outer layer. Depending upon the severity of your blemishes, the dermatologist can either prescribe a light, medium or deep chemical peel. All these peels have different types of chemicals in varying strengths. Some of the most effective chemical peels used to remove blemishes include Glycolic Peel, TCA Peel, Salicylic Acid Peel, Jessner’s Peel, Pyruvic Acid Peel, Lactic Acid Peel, etc.
- Laser Resurfacing – For people who are looking at removing their dark blemishes, one of the best treatments is laser resurfacing. This treatment is performed by using the light energy to not only remove the ski’s outer layer but also stimulate collagen production, which is present underneath the skin. The number of sessions required will depend upon the severity of your blemishes. Blemishes such as age spots, skin discoloration due to excess sun exposure, etc., can be effective treated using this treatment.
How to Prevent Blemishes on Face?
As the popular saying goes, ‘Prevention is better than Cure’. So here are some helpful tips which can help you in preventing the development of blemish.
- Hygiene – Maintaining a healthy hygiene around you is the first and foremost preventive measure that you should take. Always wash your face in the morning as well as before you sleep. Avoid any bacterial infection by regularly changing your bedsheets and pillow covers.
- Diet – Pay attention what you are eating. A blemish-free and healthy skin can be achieved by including vitamin C and E in your diet.
- Sun Exposure – Since it is not possible to avoid sun exposure, ensure that you always protect yourself against the harmful UV rays by using a good sunscreen, wearing hats, stoles, etc.
- Skin Care Regime – Diligently follow a good skin care regime based on your skin type and tone. Use skin care and makeup products which allow your pores to breathe.
- Hydrate – Keep your skin hydrated by ensuring that you drink sufficient amounts of water on a daily basis.
- Face Touching – Don’t keep touching your face unnecessarily, especially if you already have some form of blemish on your face. When you keep touching it, you will unconsciously spread to other areas on your face as well.
Yes, blemishes are a common occurrence, but when you have various treatment options available, there is no reason for you to continue the burden. Rather, get yourselves checked by a dermatologist, adopt the prescribed treatment and enjoy a blemish-free smooth and soft skin!
About the author
Riya Deshmukh is a writer by passion, she has had diverse experience in areas of beauty and health care; with topics like skincare, hair problems, tips and advices being her forte. She has publications from sites like olivaclinic.com, Zig Verve, Juju Chan. She aspires to bring change in the lives of people through earnest and research based articles.