Subcutaneous pimples look like bumps under the skin of different sizes. In some cases, they are so small that they can only be felt by touch, while in other cases they are large and noticeable. Sometimes they cannot be identified by touch, but their presence is detected, as the skin in the affected area turns red and becomes painful when pressed.
Unlike the “classic” pimples we are used to, subcutaneous pimples do not have the typical white head, and the inflammation that accompanies them remains at the subcutaneous level. However, it also happens that these pimples turn into closed whiteheads or lead to the appearance of papules and cysts.
Subcutaneous pimples should not be confused with the so-called prosyanka, small superficial cysts filled with keratin, semi-solid consistency.
Why do subcutaneous pimples appear?
Subcutaneous acne is formed as a result of inflammatory processes affecting the hair follicle, inside which pus and bacteria can accumulate.
There are many reasons for this inflammatory process . And they depend on various factors that can contribute to each other in causing the problem. Influenced by:
• hormonal problems (characteristic of adolescence or certain periods of life, for example, in women in the premenstrual or menstrual period, during pregnancy);
• excessive production of sebum by the sebaceous glands;
• poor , insufficient or inadequate cleansing of the skin;
• the use of too aggressive skin cleansing products that are of poor quality and / or not suitable for your skin type ;
• allergic reactions, both to cosmetics and to foods, drugs or other substances.
In addition, stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unbalanced diet and excessive sun exposure can provoke the appearance of subcutaneous acne. A genetic predisposition cannot be ruled out.
Who is at risk?
Subcutaneous acne can occur in patients of any age, both in men and women. However, the problem is more common among teenagers, probably due to the significant hormonal changes that occur during this particular period of life.
Although subcutaneous pimples can appear anywhere on the body, they are most commonly found on the face in the T-zone, back, and thighs. In some cases - in the armpits, groin, hands and scalp.
Subcutaneous acne is accompanied by other symptoms of varying intensity, such as: pain when pressing on the affected area, itching, swelling of the area, cracked skin. Sometimes acne can be complicated by a bacterial infection.
How to fight?
In some cases, especially when subcutaneous acne occurs in an isolated and acute form, there is no need for treatment, as they are prone to spontaneous regression and self -resorption . However, if this does not occur, targeted and specific treatment may be required.
When subcutaneous acne becomes a serious problem, for example, they are very painful or do not go away for a long period of time, it makes sense to consult a dermatologist at Bogolyuby Medical Center . Once the precipitating cause is identified, the doctor will prescribe the most appropriate therapeutic strategy for you. In these cases, the type of treatment to be taken will be closely related to the source of the problem. For example, if subcutaneous acne in women is caused by hormonal changes, a doctor may prescribe oral contraceptives . In the case of an allergy, contact with the agent causing the hypersensitivity reaction should be avoided in the first place.
If the inflammation is particularly severe and does not respond to other treatments, topical corticosteroids or, in severe cases, systemic use are prescribed. In case of complications of a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be used.
