How Does a Pimple Scar Form?

What Is a Pimple?

Pimples are actually small lesions that can appear on the skin. All over your body lie pores that help your body maintain homeostasis. In other words, they help relieve the body of toxins, as well as keep it from overheating. Over time, these pores can become clogged with natural grease and dirt, and from this can become infected. As pressure builds up behind the blocked pore, a pimple occurs.

Scarring

Because of infection, inflammation and damage to the skin cells, scarring may form after a pimple bursts or subsides. This is especially the case with severe forms of acne. Scarring may vary depending on how infected the pimple became, and how much the person experiencing the pimple manually interfered with it via touching and popping. Pimple scarring can be permanent, as well as create an atmosphere for future chronic pimple infections in the future.

Types

There are two main types of pimple scarring: depressed and bumps. A depressed pimple scar is formed when tissue is lost from the area of the pimple due to scratching or lack of regeneration. A bump scar results from excess scar tissue left after the body tries to heal the legion.

Removal

Pimple scars do not completely heal and disappear with time. In most cases, medical or surgical intervention is required to completely remove the signs of pimple scarring. Both surgical removal and cosmetic lasers are commonly used to help relieve the look of scarring--or in some cases, completely remove the scar itself.

Prevention

The best way to prevent pimple scars is to keep your face clean. Using a simple face wash and performing periodic face scrubs will help keep pimples from forming. However, pimples are sometimes unavoidable. In these situations, a pimple solution with an anti-inflammatory agent will help keep swelling and scarring to a minimum. If you experience pimples, do not play with them or try to remove them on your own. Touching the pimple with your bare hands only introduces further dirt, bacteria and oil to the affected area. Popping your pimple will cause greater scarring and infection, leaving you with an increased chance of permanent scarring.

Resources

• Additional Facts on Pimples and Pimple Scarring