Difference between Acne and Blemish

Key Difference: Acne is a disease of the skin that is characterized by presence of pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. Blemish is the condition of the skin in which skin gets decolorized or darker.

Many people consider both acne and blemish as same. However, they both refer to different things. Acne is a disease or a disorder, whereas blemish is a condition. However, they are related to each other in a way; blemishes may also occur due to acne.

The word acne is derived from acme meaning "the highest point", which comes from the Greek word akme meaning "point" or "spot" Acne is the disease that is known by Acne Vulgaris in medical terms. It is generally found in youngsters.

Plugged pores are created due to excessive production of oil and this leads to lesions like non-inflammatory open or closed comedones (whiteheads or blackheads) and inflammatory papules, pustules, and nodules (pimples). It typically affects the areas of skin with the densest population of cutaneous glands, that secrete sebum (usually into a hair follicle) for lubricating hair and skin. It is commonly found in face, upper chest and back. Local symptoms of Acne Vulgaris may include pain or tenderness. Various forms of acne are described below:-

1. Whiteheads: - they are generally very small and mostly remain under the skin.

2. Blackheads: - they can be easily seen, as they appear on the surface of the skin.

3. Papules: - they are pink or red small bumps.

4. Pustules: - they are red colored at the base and also have pus at the top.

5. Nobules: - they refer to large and solid pimples. They many cause sever pain as they are embedded deep in the skin.

6. Cysts: - these are easily visible on the surface. They are quite painful and are laso filled with pus. They may easily cause scars.

The primary cause of acne is considered to be the Androgen hormone. High levels of Androgen trigger the oil glands to produce more oil. However, some studies have also mentioned genetic reasons for causing acne. Mild acne can be treated with over the counter medications which means that you do not need a prescription from a doctor. However, severe acne must be shown to a dermatologist.

Blemishes reflect the condition of skin discoloration. The skin gets darker in some areas of skin. This may happen due to various reasons. Some blemishes may occur naturally and some may be caused by other diseases. The marks or areas of discoloration may be caused due to various reasons. They are generally common in skin that has acne. One can easily see as they occur in patches or in form of spots on the skin.

Blemishes may occur due to various reasons like:-

Environmental: - pollution and dust also cause skin to blemish. Exposure to intense sun rays for a longer period may also cause discoloration of the skin.

Improper care: - Improper diet and inadequate water intake can also lead to a blemished skin.

Hormones: - Sometimes due to hormones the melanin pigment present in an area of a skin can vary form other sections and areas with excessive melanin become hyper pigmented.

Reaction to cosmetics and skin care products

Reactions to medicines.

The following steps should be followed in order to prevent skin blemishes.

Avoid getting too much exposed to sun.
Avoid over-cleansing of skin.
Avoid use of excessive cosmetics.
Eat healthy.

A lot of creams and ointments are available in the market for the treatment of skin blemish. However, the best option would be to visit a dermatologist. Retinoid creams, such as adapalene, tazarotene and tretinoin, are generally used in the treatment of blemishes on the skin.

Thus, skin care should be given an immense importance and if one is suffering from acne or is having a blemished skin, then must try to reduce the problem by taking proper care of the skin. There are various treatments available for both.

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