Pustular acne
What Is Pustular Acne?
Pustular acne, also known as miliaria, is an inflamed form of acne consisting of white pustules surrounded by red skin. This type of acne can occur anywhere on the body, but is most commonly seen on the face, chest, back, arms, legs, and buttocks. Pustular acne is different from other forms of acne because the white pustules contain white pus-filled blisters, which can look like tiny white heads.
Causes of Pustular Acne
Pustular acne is usually caused by clogged pores and overactive oil glands, which trap bacteria and dirt within the pores. This trapped bacteria can lead to an infection, which then causes the pus-filled blisters. Other factors that can trigger pustular acne include:
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
- Medications
- Too much scrubbing or exfoliation
- Use of harsh cosmetics or skin care products
Treatment Options for Pustular Acne
Treatment for pustular acne typically focuses on reducing inflammation and eliminating the infection. Your doctor may recommend topical medications such as antibiotics or retinoids to help reduce inflammation. Several different oral antibiotics have also been used to treat pustular acne. Other treatments such as laser therapy, chemical peels, and light therapy may also be recommended.
It is also important to cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove dirt and bacteria. Use a mild cleanser and lukewarm water, and always avoid scrubbing your skin too hard. Moisturizing your skin can also help reduce inflammation and keep your skin healthy.
Self-Care Tips for Pustular Acne
In addition to following your doctor's treatment recommendations, there are some other self-care tips you can follow to reduce the risk of pustular acne flareups. These include:
- Wash your face twice a day using a gentle cleanser.
- Avoid using harsh soaps, facial scrubs, astringents, and makeup.
- Avoid touching or picking at the affected area.
- Eliminate any food triggers that may be causing flareups.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and reduce inflammation.
- Get plenty of rest and reduce stress.