From a dermatologist’s point of view the term pimple is meaningless. Some people use the term “pimples” as a synonym for Acne. Other people use the term to refer to any red bump with a superimposed pussy area (pustule) or without a superimposed pussy area (papule).
“Red bumps with or without a superimposed pussy area” can be found in a long list of skin conditions, only one of which is Acne. To confirm the diagnosis of Acne in someone presenting with “pimples” one or more of the following additional findings are required:
- Black heads (open comedomes)
- White heads (closed comedomes)
- Scarring
- Distribution of the pimples on the face, chest and back
So, if you have pimples, but none of the above findings, you probably do not have Acne!
Hi there,
I’ve had problem skin since 12 years old, various black/white heads, pustules & papules, mostly on my cheeks and chin and also on my back. Fine white heads sometimes appear on my shoulders and my chest area. Through the years I’ve attributed the break outs to an unbalanced diet and stress. I’m 28 years old and still suffer from bad skin issues. I have no medical aid so all fees will be paid in cash, I’m sure you can appreciate that I am not able to frequent a Dermatologist without medical aid. What would you recommend? I’ve recently increased my Zinc intake and also go for facials once a month and try to drink lots of water.
Dear Candice. Long standing Acne that have not responded to oral antibiotics or medication like Diane, could be an indication for taking Oratane. Facials is not the best treatment for long standing Acne.
Hi dr louw ,
Please advice what is the cost of your consultation.
Thanks
Dear Ashley. First time consultation fee in 2012 will be R500.
Dear Dr. Louw,
In June of this year I began having breakouts of acne in specific areas of my body. Large singe postules on left or right side below mouth. Inner edge of eyebrow, left then right. Then a collection over my right shoulder, then over my kidney area on back. I was diagnosed with ovarian tumours in August. I had my right ovary removed and they left the keft ovary. IHad experienced night sweats since about March this year. After the operation I experienced another month of night seats and they have now faded. MY skin outbreaks continue. I have always had very good skin condition. THe only time I experienced outbreaks like this was when I went onto the injection for birth control. The postules flare up nearer my period. They are scarring and seem to pass through a stage of infection. I am at my wits end with this. I’ve tried alkalizing my diet. I rinse the area with a little borax. I’ve tried olive leaf extract. I don’t know what to do. Any advice would help. My thnanks, Greta
Dear Greta. It would be best if you can come and show me. I presume, with the previous ovarian cancer, that you are on oral medications. I would like to make a diagnosis first, before suggesting any treatments.
I have use to have acne but it was treated and went away nicely and I’m still using the cream I was given by a Doctor 3years ago. Recently I got pimples again and it itches, it’s only on my cheeks and chin areas.
What can I use for it ( I have very sensitive skin)
Dear Rifqah. There are many treatment options for Acne, but the first step is to make sure what you have now is in fact Acne…..