Pimples are one of the most common skin problems, experienced by both men and women. While they are more prominent among people with oily skin, pimples can occur on all skin types. But, unlike other types of pimples which are visible on the skin, there is a kind that may come to a head and erupt from underneath your skin's surface, forming a visible blemish, or may go away without making an appearance. Wondering what they are called? They are called 'blind pimples' and can develop on your chest, upper back, or face, too. Also known as cystic acne, blind pimples occur when hair follicles become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, leading to a deep, painful inflammation. "Unlike other forms of acne, they do not have a 'head' or visible opening to the skin's surface, making them more difficult to treat," Dr Sudheendra G Udbalker, Consultant Dermatology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore told indianexpress.com. Stressing that while anyone can get a blind pimple, Dr Udbalker noted that people with excessively oily skin are more prone to developing them because excess oil can clog hair follicles, leading to inflammation. "Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also increase the likelihood of developing blind pimples. Obesity and a family history of acne can also make individuals more susceptible," he added. How to treat blind pimples According to the expert, treating blind pimples can be challenging and often requires the guidance of a dermatologist. "Treatment can take several months to see results and addressing underlying factors such as PCOS or obesity can help improve outcomes. If left untreated, blind pimples can cause scarring, which can be difficult to treat," Dr Udbalker said. Dermatologists prescribe a combination of treatments to manage blind pimples, such as: *Topical retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives can help unclog pores and prevent new acne from forming. *Benzoyl peroxide: This medication can help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. *Oral antibiotics: In some cases, oral antibiotics may be necessary to manage the inflammation and prevent scarring. *Isotretinoin: This powerful medication is reserved for severe cases of acne and should only be used under the supervision of a dermatologist. Concluding, he said, "It's important to note that all of these treatments should be used under the guidance of a dermatologist as some may have side effects and require careful monitoring." 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
