Why do we get pimples? Causes and factors

We get pimples mainly because our pores get clogged: excess sebum and an accumulation of dead cells obstruct the pilosebaceous follicle. Hormones, stress, diet, and unsuitable skincare can exacerbate the phenomenon. Good to know: if pimples are numerous, inflammatory, painful, or persistent, they require dermatological advice. This article remains within the cosmetic realm.

A pimple appearing the day before an important appointment, a persistently problematic chin area... Imperfections can affect anyone, well beyond adolescence. Understanding why they appear is the first step to helping your skin regain a clearer appearance. Let's decipher the mechanisms and factors at play.

The basic mechanism: a clogged pore

It all starts in the pilosebaceous follicle, this microscopic channel that houses a hair and a sebaceous gland. This gland produces sebum, a useful lipid film that naturally protects and moisturizes the skin.

A pimple appears when two phenomena combine: an excessive production of sebum (hyperséborrhée) and hyperkeratinization, meaning an abnormal accumulation of dead cells at the entrance of the pore. The result: the canal becomes clogged, sebum can no longer drain, and a micro-plug forms. This is the starting point of the comedone, and sometimes of the inflammatory pimple.

Depending on what happens to the clogged pore, different types of pimples occur. The open comedone remains in contact with the air and oxidizes: these are blackheads, whose color comes not from dirt but from this oxidation. The closed comedone, on the other hand, forms a small white bump under the surface.

When inflammation gets involved, these comedones evolve into red pimples, then into pustules when a whitish content appears at the top. Knowing how to distinguish these different types of imperfections changes how to respond to them: a blackhead and a pustule are not treated in the same way.

The role of bacteria and inflammation

In this clogged and sebum-rich pore, a bacterium naturally present on the skin, Cutibacterium acnes, can proliferate. This proliferation promotes an inflammatory reaction: the pimple then becomes red, swollen, sometimes sensitive.

It is important to understand that this bacterium is part of the normal skin flora: it is not a matter of "lack of hygiene". On the contrary, overly aggressive cleansing can unbalance the skin and perpetuate the phenomenon. The key is balance, not aggression.

(Read: Acne and blemishes: the guide to natural solutions)

Hormones, the primary aggravating factor

Androgen hormones (such as testosterone, present in both men and women) stimulate the sebaceous glands and increase sebum production. This is why pimples often appear at puberty, but also during hormonal variations: menstrual cycle, periods of change.

Estrogens, conversely, tend to slow down sebum production. This hormonal balance partly explains why some imperfections fluctuate over time. When outbreaks are significant or cyclical, medical advice can be sought to discuss them.

Stress, diet, and lifestyle

Other factors can influence the skin's appearance:

• Stress: it promotes the production of cortisol, a hormone that can indirectly stimulate the sebaceous glands.
• Diet: some data suggest that a diet with a high glycemic index (fast sugars) or rich in dairy products could promote sebum production in some people.
• Lack of sleep and fatigue, which affect the skin's overall balance.
• Unsuitable skincare: products that are too rich, comedogenic, or, conversely, too harsh.

None of these factors alone "cause" pimples, but they can exacerbate their appearance in predisposed individuals.

Helping your skin daily

While we cannot act on everything, we can adopt gentle cosmetic gestures to help the skin appear clearer:

• Cleanse morning and evening without stripping the skin, with a suitable product such as the Clarifying Aloe Vera Cleansing Gel.
• Mattify appearance and limit shine with the Purifying Salicylic Acid Toner.
• Hydrate without weighing down with the Light Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel with a matte finish.
• Avoid picking at pimples, a gesture that promotes marks and redness.

To identify the skincare truly adapted to your skin, the Skin Intelligence diagnosis guides you in a few minutes.

(Read: How to recognize oily skin?)

FAQ

Why do I get pimples as an adult?

Hormonal variations, stress, and certain lifestyle factors can maintain imperfections long after adolescence. If they persist, a dermatologist can help you.

Does chocolate cause pimples?

There is no direct evidence for chocolate alone. Some data point instead to high-glycemic-index foods in general, but sensitivity varies from person to person.

Should I pop my pimples?

No. Picking at a pimple can worsen inflammation and leave marks. It is better to let the skin regain its natural appearance.

Does stress really cause pimples?

Stress alone does not create pimples, but it can increase sebum production and promote outbreaks on predisposed skin.

When should I consult a dermatologist?

As soon as pimples are numerous, inflammatory, painful, cystic, or persistent despite an adapted routine.

In summary

Pimples result from a clogged pore, due to sebum and dead cells, sometimes with an inflammatory component. Hormones, stress, diet, and unsuitable skincare can exacerbate the phenomenon. A gentle routine helps to regain a clearer appearance — and dermatological advice remains essential in cases of marked acne.

To find out which skincare products are suitable for your skin, start with the Skin Intelligence diagnosis.

Sources: Copmed, Bioderma, Ducray, Aroma-Zone. Informational article, without medical scope.