Understanding the Difference Between Pimples & Acne

What Is a Pimple?

When learning about pimple vs. acne, it is essential to know about each of these conditions in detail. Pimples refer to the small growth on your skin’s surface. It occurs when a pore becomes clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, and at times, bacteria, causing inflammation.

You can notice red or white bumps on the skin's surface most commonly on your face, chest, upper back, and shoulders.

Causes of Pimples

Now that you know what is a pimple, let’s learn about its causes:

• Clogged Pores

The tiny skin glands aka sebaceous glands are found inside our skin’s pores and secrete sebum which remains there. New skin cells grow constantly while the older ones are shed. Sometimes dead skin cells get trapped in pores and stick with sebum, causing a blockage and pimples. Sebum or oil production causes excessive sebum production and pore blockage.

• Bacterial Infection

Sometimes clogged pores become the breeding ground of bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacterium related to acne. Though harmless, this bacterium rapidly multiplies when the conditions are favourable. It relies on the sebum and produces a by-product that causes an immune response, resulting in inflammation and spots.

• Diet

Foods with high glycemic index may exacerbate acne in some individuals.

• Stress

Though stress does not directly cause pimples, it can worsen pre-existing acne.

Pimple vs. acne, what is what? Let’s find out! Now that you know what is pimple, let’s move on to learn what is acne, its causes, and more!

What is Acne & How is It Different?

Your understanding of the difference between pimple and acne will be crystal clear once you thoroughly learn about acne. Acne or acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory disorder of the skin that occurs when hair follicles become, causing clogged, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or even deeper and more painful nodules and cysts. Acne is most commonly seen in teenagers however, it can affect people of all age.

Causes of Acne

The exact causes of acne are yet to be discovered. However, certain factors lead to acne:

• Excessive oil secretion
• Hormonal imbalance during puberty, pregnancy, and menstrual cycle
• Using oil-based beauty products
• High humidity
• Certain medications like corticosteroids and anabolic steroids

Pimple vs. acne - what skin condition do you have? The next section will help you identify whether you have acne or pimple.

Identify Pimple vs. Acne - Chronic vs. Occasional Breakouts

The difference between pimple and acne is based on the occurrence and severity of breakouts. Occasional breakouts are usually pimples that come and go. Whereas acne is a recurring or persistent breakout that always leaves some sort of blemish on your skin.

Equipped with a clear understanding of pimple vs. acne, you can now focus on the treatment and management plan for both these skin concerns. Occasional pimples can be treated using over-the-counter products, whereas acne demands a multi-pronged treatment. Acne is categorized into mild, moderate, or severe. Consider the different types of acne on face while planning a skincare regimen.

Treatment for Pimple and Acne - Over-the-counter vs. Dermatologist Treatments vs. Skincare Products

Pimple vs. acne – how to treat? Tackle pimples and acne in the following ways:

1. Over-the-counter

When looking for OTC products for mild pimple and acne treatment, choose these ingredients –

• Benzoyl peroxide (removes excess sebum, dead skin cells, kills acne-causing bacteria, and works best for red, pus-filled pimples)
• Salicylic acid (prevents comedone formation and works best for whiteheads and blackheads)

2. Dermatologist treatments

For moderate to severe acne, consult a dermatologist who might prescribe prescription medications such as topical retinoids or suggest other treatments.

• Skincare Products & Practices

1. Gentle Cleansing

Cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle non-comedogenic face cleanser.

2. Exfoliation

Exfoliate 1-3 times a week (depending on your skin type) with a mild scrub to slough off dead skin cells. Use anti-pimple sheet mask after that to reduce pimples and redness.

3. Avoid Touching Your Face

This will transfer bacteria and make the breakouts worse.

4. Don’t Pop Pimples

Squeezing or picking your pimples can lead to inflammation, infection, and hyperpigmentation, and scarring.

5. Build Anti-spot Skincare

Pimples or acne may leave blemishes known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Hence, to achieve blemish and spot-free skin, use vitamin C products. This antioxidant fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation, enhances glow, helps hydrate skin, and more. Use vitamin c face wash, vitamin C face serum, sunscreen with vitamin C, vitamin C night cream for clear skin.

We hope you have gained a clear understanding of pimple vs. acne with our guide. Adopt healthy skincare practices and use non-comedogenic products to achieve healthier, clearer skin. Browse through the wide assortment of Garnier Skincare products and skincare tips to take the best care of your skin. Take the Garnier Skin Care Quiz and get a tailored skincare routine in no time.