Acne Red Spots, Pigment Problems and Other Pimple-Related Skin Marks

Acne red spots often appear during the clearing up process. They are caused by the infection and the healing process and can last from four to twelve weeks. One good thing about these spots, though, is that they are only temporary. The red marks should not be confused with other skin discoloration conditions such as pigment problems, blackheads and whiteheads.

Acne red spots are signals that the worst of the infection has passed. Pigment or melanin, on the other hand, is a natural result of skin injury like burns or infections like acne. Pigment is brown to dark brown in color and can be caused by hormones within the skin. People with dark skin are more prone to pigment spots. These are usually caused by inflammation and can also be due to increased hormonal production during pregnancy.

Aside from red marks and pigment spots, acne also causes blackheads and whiteheads. Blackheads are due to clogged pores and the dark color is a result of excess skin pigment. Whiteheads, on the other hand, are caused by excess sebum getting trapped inside the follicle. They can also be the result of infected sebaceous glands.

The more severe form of skin marking following acne are scars. Scarring occurs when cysts develop beneath the surface of the skin brought about by severe inflammatory acne. These cysts can rupture and spread infection into skin tissues which could eventually lead to scarring.

The marks left by acne can disappear quickly or can last for weeks; or in the case of scars, might not disappear at all. The length of time by which these marks stay in the skin is mainly dependent on the natural healing system of the person. People who are known to heal quickly can see the disappearance of these spots in just a few days while those who do not have the natural healing capacities of others might have to live with these spots for as long as twelve weeks.

Acne red spots and pigment spots will eventually disappear and a person can just wait until these marks have run their course. Meanwhile, those suffering from blackheads and whiteheads can consult a skin specialist and ask for advice on how to get rid of them. For those who have scarred, ointments are now available to diminish the size and color of these marks; but it is still highly advisable to seek the opinion of a skin doctor or specialist before purchasing any treatment option.