Papules and Pustules

What are acne papules?

Acne papules are solid, inflamed bumps that are usually cone-shaped. They are red or pink, they don’t have a yellow or white center of pus. Most papules become pustules after few days. face, neck, back, chest, shoulders and upper arms are most likely to develop papules.

What causes acne papules?

An increased presence of oil (sebaceous) glands.
An increased presence of bacteria on your skin.
An increased presence of androgens, which are a group of sex hormones. They help start puberty and play a role in reproductive health and body development. All people have androgens, but people assigned male at birth make more of them. Testosterone is the most common androgen.
Some medications, including corticosteroids and anabolic steroids.

Treatment for acne papules:

Azelaic acid: This is a natural acid found in grains. It kills microorganisms on your skin and reduces swelling.
Benzoyl peroxide: This is available as an over-the-counter product as a leave-on gel or as a wash. It targets surface bacteria, which often aggravate papules. Lower concentrations and wash formulations are less irritating to your skin. Irritation is a common side effect.
Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives): Retinoids, break down papules and help prevent pores from clogging. You may notice skin discoloration, dryness or peeling.
Salicylic acid: This is available for papules as a prescription cleanser or lotion. It helps remove the top layer of damaged skin. Salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells to prevent clogging of hair follicles.
Antibiotics: Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic pills that you swallow with water. Effective prescriptions include a tetracycline or a macrolide.
Anti-androgens: Anti-androgens block the effects of androgens, which are sex hormones that may make acne papules worse.
Dapsone: This is a topical gel that has antibacterial properties.
Oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives, can help treat acne papules.

Oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives, can help treat acne papules.

 

What are acne pustules?

Pustules appear red bumps with white centers. They are hard and often tender to the touch. In many cases, the skin around the pustules is red or inflamed. Acne and folliculitis are common causes of pustules. Pustules contain pus because the body is fighting with bacteria and dirt.

Pus is a natural product of the immune system, which consists of dead white blood cells. Pustules can occur anywhere, but they are more common on oily parts of body like face and neck.

 

 Treatment for pustules:

• salicylic acid
• sulfur
• peroxide

You can prevent papules and pustules by washing your face and the parts of your body which are prone to pimples. And you shouldn’t use products contain oils. The oil can clog the pores and cause pustules.