Acne (Pimples) in Kolkata: Causes, Myths and Treatment

Almost everyone gets pimples at some point, and not only teenagers: many adults, especially women, get acne in their twenties, thirties and beyond. Mild acne usually improves with simple care. Acne that is painful, leaves dark marks or scars, or affects how you feel about yourself deserves a proper consultation with a dermatologist.

What causes acne

Acne starts in the tiny oil glands of the skin. When oil and dead skin cells block a pore, a blackhead or whitehead forms. Bacteria that normally live on the skin can then cause inflammation, which leads to red pimples, pus-filled spots and, in more severe acne, deep painful lumps (nodules and cysts).

Things that can make acne worse include:

• hormonal changes: puberty, the days before a period, and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

• heavy, oily creams and make-up, and hair oil that reaches the forehead

• sweat and humidity, and helmets, masks or phone screens that rub the skin

• picking or squeezing pimples

• some medicines, including steroid creams used on the face

• stress and poor sleep

Common myths

• "Acne means dirty skin." Acne is not caused by poor hygiene. Scrubbing hard and washing too often irritate the skin and can make acne worse.

• "Toothpaste, lemon or garlic will dry it out." These can burn the skin and leave dark patches.

• "Fairness or steroid creams will clear the skin." Creams that contain steroids can cause acne-like breakouts and thin the skin. Use them only if a doctor prescribes them.

• "It will go away on its own, so leave it." Mild acne often settles, but untreated moderate or severe acne can leave permanent scars.

• "Oily food is the only cause." Food plays a smaller part than people think. Some studies suggest that a lot of sugar and refined foods, or a lot of milk, may make acne worse for some people, but diet alone rarely explains acne.

Simple skin care that helps

• Wash your face twice a day, and after sweating, with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat dry.

• Choose products marked non-comedogenic or oil-free, including sunscreen and moisturiser.

• Keep hair oil away from the forehead, and change pillow covers often.

• Do not pick or squeeze pimples. It pushes inflammation deeper and raises the risk of marks and scars.

• Give any new treatment time. Most acne treatments take six to eight weeks to show clear results.

When to see a dermatologist

• pimples are painful, deep or lumpy

• acne is leaving dark marks or scars

• there is no improvement after two to three months of simple care

• acne started suddenly in adulthood, or comes with irregular periods, extra facial or body hair, or weight changes

• acne is affecting your confidence or mood

A dermatologist will look at the type of acne and your skin, ask about medicines and cosmetics, and suggest a plan. Depending on the type and severity, this may include prescription creams or gels, tablets for a limited period, hormonal treatment for some women, and treatment for dark marks and scars. Stronger medicines such as isotretinoin are only for selected patients and need a dermatologist's prescription and monitoring. Results vary from person to person.

Acne care at Cara, MCR Polyclinic in Behala

Cara is the skin and hair division of MCR Super Speciality Polyclinic & Pathology, near Behala Tram Depot. Our dermatologists see patients with acne, dark marks and other skin, hair and nail problems. See the Cara skin and hair page for doctors' days and timings. If the doctor suspects a hormonal cause such as PCOS, they may advise blood tests, which can be done at our pathology lab, or a consultation with a gynaecologist at the clinic.

Related reading: how to choose a dermatologist in Kolkata and ringworm (daad): why it keeps coming back.

Questions people ask

Should I stop wearing make-up if I have acne?

Not always. Choose oil-free, non-comedogenic products and remove make-up fully before you sleep.

Will acne marks fade?

Dark marks after pimples often fade over months, especially if you protect your skin from the sun. Deep scars usually need treatment; your dermatologist can explain the options for your skin.

Is acne treatment safe in pregnancy?

Some acne medicines are not safe in pregnancy. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Sources

NHS (Acne); American Academy of Dermatology (Acne resource centre).

How to book

For a skin consultation, book a clinic appointment or call/WhatsApp +91 9830525004.

MCR Super Speciality Polyclinic & Pathology, 11A, Sourin Roy Road, near Behala Tram Depot, beside Ellora Cinema Hall, Behala, Kolkata 700034. Open Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 8 PM (Sunday closed).

General information: This article is general information and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.