Blemishes: Causes, types, and treatments
Skin blemishes are common, especially among teenagers and young adults. They can range from small bumps on the skin to large, red, scaly areas that tend to itch. Blemishes are commonly called "blemishes" because these unsightly spots on the skin may be normal in appearance. Some people are more likely to develop a variety of blemishes; others are less so. Keeping skin clean and dry helps protect it from damage caused by excessive exposure to sunlight and other ageing factors. Some blemishes, however, can signal skin cancer. Seeking medical treatment or using at-home remedies will help reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Prolonged or frequent exposure to direct sunlight can cause considerable skin damage. When the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays fall on your skin, they trigger the melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) into overactivity. Excessive production of this pigment will make your skin darker and possibly give rise to pigmentation issues. Skin blemishes are caused by the abnormal growth of skin cells, which form when the glands secrete excessive oil. This excess sebum can clog pores and lead to pimples. Blemishes may also be caused by an overactive oil gland under the skin, commonly known as a sebaceous cyst.
Skin blemishes are caused by a variety of factors, including:
Sun exposure:
Direct and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause severe skin damage. This is because the Ultraviolet rays trigger melanin production in the skin cells. In addition, excess production of melanin in the skin can cause pigmented spots.
Hormonal changes:
Hormonal imbalances, especially in women, can cause pigmentation and skin breakouts on the skin. Especially in PCOS, the androgen and estrogen secretion level get disrupted, resulting in hormonal acne breakouts. In addition, during pregnancy and menopause also, women undergo hormonal imbalances.
Viral and bacterial infection:
Certain viral infections like chickenpox and cold sores can cause skin blisters. This type of skin blemish can leave scars which take some type to face.
Genetics:
Due to hereditary disorders, some people scar more easily than others. The history of excessive scarring is found in specific ethnic populations that possess genetic factors of acne and skin blemishes.
Improper diet:
Overeating junk or oily food can also cause pimples and blemishes on your skin. In addition, excessive consumption of oily, dairy, and sugary products stimulates acne flare-ups. Products like low-fat skim milk can increase acne breakouts on the skin.
Stress:
Stress can be crucial for your mental health but also impacts the skin. Excessive secretion of cortisol (stress hormone) can increase acne and pimples. In addition, people who go through a stressful life can lack a proper sleep cycle, resulting in blemishes around the eyes.
Types of blemishes:
Acne:
The main cause of acne is believed to be an overactive sebaceous gland that produces large amounts of sebum (oil).
Hyperpigmentation:
These are discoloured spots on the skin or patches on your skin. This happens due to excess melanin production on the skin.
Age spots:
With age, the skin becomes more vulnerable to the damage caused by UV rays.
Melasma spots:
These are dark spots around the skin that are non-threatening. Melasma is also called the mask of pregnancy because pregnant women are prone to blemishes due to hormonal changes.
Scars:
Scar formation is an essential part of the skin healing process. They usually develop as discoloured patches that may be lumpy, fat, or sunken.
Remedies for blemishes:
- Witch Hazel is a quick fix to spots and blemishes. This natural astringent dries out the excess oil and helps clear acne. Also, it can be a good ointment for burns and cuts. Apply a drop of witch hazel with a cotton
- Apply fresh Aloe vera extract to the affected areas twice a day and rub dark elbows and knees gel to reduce pigmentation. Aloe vera gel can work better than any chemical anti-blemish cream available in the market.
- Apply or drink apple cider vinegar with water to diminish pigmentation. It consists of a lot of antioxidants that cleanse your skin inside out. In addition, its anti-fungal property controls harmful bacteria and keeps the skin oil-free.
- For soft and supple lips, apply some cocoa butter. It moisturizes your lips and also helps remove the lipstick residues. In addition, the creamy formula helps hydrate and lighten your skin.
- Honey is a natural radiant for dull skin. It removes the dark spots by bleaching your skin. The anti-bacterial property keeps the harmful bacteria at bay and locks the moisture in the skin. Add a spritz of lemon in 2-3 tsp of honey to reduce dark spots and blemishes.
- And if you want to avoid all the hustle, try out Rejusure's anti-blemish creams, toners, and face mist. The best anti-blemish pigmentation cream that suits all skin types. It has no parabens or harsh chemicals. It eliminates dark spots and blemishes from your skin without any side effects.