So what really causes pimples?

Acne usually starts at puberty when increased levels of sex hormones (androgens) cause an increase in the size and oil production of glands. The face, neck and chest, shoulders and upper back are most likely to be affected by pimples as they have the highest number of oil glands. If the blockage of dead skin cells and sebum stays below the skin you get a whitehead. If the blockage reaches the air, it turns dark and becomes a blackhead. When bacteria gets into the surrounding tissue, it can become inflamed, with small red bumps (papules), white or yellow pus-filled pimples (pustules) or large red bumps (inflamed nodules). Some people are genetically predisposed to acne. Stress has also been linked to acne, as have hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome. Acne can be caused or aggravated by a high glycaemic index diet, oil-based cosmetics, sunscreens or creams, hot and humid environments, working with oil and grease, and some medications, including steroids, certain contraceptive pills and some epilepsy treatments. The good news is there are effective treatments out there to help most acne sufferers.

So what really causes pimples?

Acne usually starts at puberty when increased levels of sex hormones (androgens) cause an increase in the size and oil production of glands. The face, neck and chest, shoulders and upper back are most likely to be affected by pimples as they have the highest number of oil glands. If the blockage of dead skin cells and sebum stays below the skin you get a whitehead. If the blockage reaches the air, it turns dark and becomes a blackhead. When bacteria gets into the surrounding tissue, it can become inflamed, with small red bumps (papules), white or yellow pus-filled pimples (pustules) or large red bumps (inflamed nodules).

Some people are genetically predisposed to acne. Stress has also been linked to acne, as have hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome. Acne can be caused or aggravated by a high glycaemic index diet, oil-based cosmetics, sunscreens or creams, hot and humid environments, working with oil and grease, and some medications, including steroids, certain contraceptive pills and some epilepsy treatments.

The good news is there are effective treatments out there to help most acne sufferers.