Both ‘acne’ and ‘pimples’ are used interchangeably. However, both of them have different meanings. Pimples refers to a type of blemish, while acne is a skin condition with a range of symptoms, causes, and management options. However, both of them affect one’s confidence and self-esteem. Understanding the exact nature of the skin concern is vital for effective management of oily acne-prone skin. While non-inflamed pimples usually improve with over-the-counter products, severe acne lesions require a consultation with an expert dermatologist.

Difference Between Acne and Pimples

To provide readers with a better understanding of acne and pimples and the difference between two, we have drafted this blog by taking insights from expert dermatologist Dr. Roopi Khera. This expert doctor is known for performing the best acne treatment in Ludhiana. To make this post useful for readers, we will also discuss several treatments that help improve both types of blemishes. Continue reading to learn more.

What is a Pimple?

Pimples are a symptom of acne that is characterized by inflammatory, pus-filled lesions. Pimples are typically a single blemish or lesion, whereas acne often appears as severe, pus-filled breakouts all over the face. If one has an inflamed blemish, they have a pimple; however, if it is a cluster of pimples, they have acne. When the pores are blocked by excessive sebum, germs, and dead skin cells, a pimple shows up. Blackheads and whiteheads, commonly known as closed and open comedones, are non-inflammatory pimples caused by clogged pores.

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition. Compared to a pimple, acne is more persistent and sometimes painful too. It occurs when the hair follicles get blocked with too much oil, dirt, or dead skin cells and affects both the oil glands and the hair follicles. Some of the common factors that can contribute to the appearance of acne or make it worse include hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition to acne, certain medications, stress, etc. 

If one has acne-prone skin, they may have persistent and recurring pimples. It could also be accompanied by blackheads and whiteheads, pustules, cysts, etc. Below are some of the different types of acne:

• Whiteheads – clogged pores below the skin’s surface

• Blackheads—open-clogged pores that occur on the surface of the skin

• Papules – small, red bumps that are sensitive to the touch

• Pustules – papules having white or yellow lesions on the tip that are pus-filled

• Nodules – painful, solid lumps deep under the skin

• Cysts (severe nodular acne) – painful, pus-filled lesions which lie below the skin.

If one is experiencing acne, they must be wondering what type of acne they have because the treatment differs based on the type of acne. To know this, one needs to consult an experienced dermatologist. For this, one can book a consultation with Dr. Roopi Khera, a leading dermatologist in Ludhiana, at The Glo Medispa clinic. She will determine what type of acne one is experiencing and suggest an effective treatment accordingly.

What is the Difference Between Acne and Pimples?

Pimples and acne are two types of skin conditions that are caused by improper dietary factors and hormonal changes. The main difference between the two is that pimples are a type of skin lesion, whereas acne is a chronic skin condition. Acne pops up when the hair follicles are clogged with dead skin cells and sebum.

Let’s understand the main difference between acne and pimples:

1. Acne is a type of skin condition that causes the skin to flare up, whereas pimples are a symptom of acne.
2. Acne generally appears in clusters, whereas pimples are always singular.

Can Acne or Pimples be Prevented With General Measures?

Yes, there are some tips that can help prevent acne from occurring:

1. Wash the face gently, at least twice a day, with a mild cleanser. It helps to remove dead skin cells and excess oil to reduce the possibility of acne. Avoid scrubbing the face harshly.
2. 2. Use oil-free makeup, lotions, or moisturizers.
3. 3. Avoid popping, touching, or squeezing the face with your hands, as the bacteria could lead to scarring and infections.
4. 4. Avoid exposure to sunlight and apply sunscreens regularly.
5. Drink plenty of water every day to detoxify the skin and body.
6. Avoid junk food and foods processed with high sugar, as they may trigger acne. Consume more vegetables, whole grains, and fresh fruits.
7. Do regular exercise.
8. Sleep well for 7-8 hours.
9. Avoid taking a lot of stress, as it increases cortisol hormonal levels and increases the secretion of oil. So make the necessary changes in your lifestyle to become relaxed. Practice yoga or medication for this.

How is Acne or Pimples Treated?

A skilled dermatologist, recommends the following treatments for treating acne:

1. Mild treatments, which include topical creams like salicylic acid, azileic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin, lactic acid, tea tree oil, etc.
2. Moderate acne will include one or a combination of oral isotretinoin, oral doxycycline, oral azithromycin, oral zinc, oral silymarines, oral myoinositol, etc.
3. In-clinic treatments include one or a combination of treatments such as salicylic acid peels, azileic acid peels, Jessner’s peel, mandelic peel, etc.

Other dermatological treatments include:

• Laser Toning with Carbon and Hollywood Facial: Acne gets better with laser toning with carbon, or “The Glo Signature Hollywood Facial,” by lowering inflammation, regulating sebum production, and promoting new collagen, which helps prevent acne scarring.

• Microneedling: Microneedling performed via Dermapen 4 and causes oxygenation of the pilosebaceous gland. This helps to kill bacteria and get rid of stubborn acne.

Final Takeaway

We hope that you won’t be confused if someone questions you regarding what acne and pimples are and how they are different from one another. Since they occur due to excessive sebum production, one must do some self-care and take the necessary steps to reduce them. If in case your acne is severe, you must seek medical attention as soon as possible. 

For this, one can schedule a consultation with the renowned dermatologist in Ludhiana, Dr. Roopi Khera, who is the founder of The Glo Medispa Clinic. The expert doctor has more than a decade of experience and offers the best acne treatment tailored specifically according to the skin type and severity of the condition.

Therefore, if one is looking to improve their pimples, acne, or any other skin condition such as pigmentation, eczema, vitiligo, etc., do not hesitate to book a consultation with Dr. Roopi Khera at The Glo Medispa Clinic.