Pimples, also known as comedones, are small bumps that appear due to the accumulation of acne in the opening of the pores of the skin. These granites are also characterized by containing a kind of nucleus right in the middle of this bulge, which can be dark in the case of an open comedo or whitish in case it is closed.
In general, comedones are a condition that usually appears on areas of the skin such as the face, chest, back, and shoulders. But why can they arise in other areas such as the legs? Keep reading this oneHOWTO article and discover more about the pimples on the legs: why they come out and how to remove them.
Why do pimples appear on the legs – main causes
As we have indicated, pimples or comedones can be defined as small bumps that appear at the opening of the skin’s pores due to inflammation caused by excess acne. Although it is more common for these lumps to appear in places like the face and shoulders, they can also appear on the legs. But why do pimples appear on my legs? Next we will explain its main causes:
- Keratosis pilaris: This condition occurs when the pores of the skin are clogged by an excess of keratin. Keratosis is distinguished by the appearance of whitish bumps or pimples on the legs and thighs (especially in this area).
- Folliculitis: This infection is caused by the entry of fungi or bacteria through the hair follicles and is caused by reasons such as shaving, wearing tight clothing or by the accumulation of sweat and heat. The pimples on the legs that appear due to this condition are usually reddish in color and are generally found in shaved areas or where there has been more friction with clothing.
- Atopic dermatitis: If the pimples are very painful and ooze a white liquid as if it were a blister, you have this infection. Dermatitis can occur due to the use of some cleaning products, due to contact with animal hair and sweat, among others. This article on Home Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis may be helpful if you are looking for natural products that can help relieve symptoms.
- Urticaria: This condition can be caused by some factors such as the consumption of certain medications, pollen, contact with latex or by some insects. This type of pimple is characterized by causing symptoms such as itching and reddish bumps on the skin.
- Mosquito bitesAlthough they are not exactly pimples, mosquito bites or other insects such as fleas, lice and mites can be confused with this condition. To treat this type of pimple on the legs and thighs, corticosteroid medications can be used either orally or topically.
- Other causesSome factors can also increase the risk of comedones on the legs. Tight clothing, excessive sweating, cosmetics with many chemicals, disorders in hormone levels, etc.
How to remove pimples on legs
Pimples on the legs are quite an annoying condition, so it is advisable to use some treatment to control excess acne and prevent the appearance of scars, as these can cause serious damage to the skin. Next we will explain how to remove pimples on the legs with medical treatments:
- Retinoids: it is a topical medicine that can come in cream, lotion or gel. It is mainly used to control excess acne and to prevent clogging of hair follicles.
- AntibioticsYour doctor may prescribe this treatment either orally or topically to eliminate bacteria buildup and reduce some acne symptoms such as skin redness and pain.
- Isotretinoin: it is a medicine for the most serious cases. It is used when the rest of the treatments have not worked. However, it is important to take it only on prescription.
- Chemical peel: It is a process where a solution of salicylic or retinoic acid is used on the pimples on the legs to reduce excess acne.
- Comedone removal– The doctor can remove pimples that have not been removed with topical treatments. This process can only be carried out by healthcare personnel.
Home remedies for pimples on legs
In addition to medical treatments, we can also use the following home remedies for pimples on the legs and thighs.
Potato juice
The potato is a vegetable rich in potassium, sulfur, copper and vitamin C, which gives it excellent astringent properties that help to deeply cleanse the pores of the skin affected by acne. To eliminate pimples on the legs and thighs with this remedy, you will have to cut a potato in half and rub one of its two parts on the affected areas. Let it work for 30 minutes and then rinse your skin with cold water.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a natural extract with powerful antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, so it will help you both to unclog the pores of the skin and to alleviate the symptoms of comedones.
To use this natural remedy for pimples, you will only have to add about 6 drops of this oil in your shower gel and then wash regularly. If you want more information about this solution, don’t miss this article on How to use tea tree oil for acne.
Rice water
Rice water has excellent astringent properties, which is why you will be able to eliminate the sebum accumulated in the pores of the skin. Prepare this remedy by letting 150 grams of brown rice and 500 ml of water sit overnight in a container. The next morning, strain the contents and apply the liquid with a gauze on the shins of the legs. Do you need a more detailed step by step? Find it in this article on How To Make Rice Water.
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