What is the pus in acne? Uncovering the truth about skin inflammation
Acne is a common skin problem for many people, especially adolescents and people with oily skin. The pus in acne often bothers people, and they even can’t help but squeeze it. So, what exactly is pus in acne? How did it form? How to deal with it correctly? This article will answer them one by one for you.
1. What is the pus in acne?

Pus in acne is the product of skin inflammation and is mainly composed of the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Source | function |
|---|---|---|
| dead white blood cells | immune system | Fight bacterial infections |
| bacterial remains | Propionibacterium acnes | Cause inflammation |
| skin cell fragments | hair follicle cuticle | clog pores |
| Grease | sebaceous glands | Nourish bacteria |
The formation of pus is a defense mechanism of the body against bacterial infection. When a hair follicle becomes clogged and infected, the immune system sends white blood cells to destroy the bacteria. These white blood cells die during the battle, mix with bacterial debris and other materials, and eventually form pus.
2. The formation process of acne pus
The formation of acne usually goes through the following stages:
| stage | performance | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| microcomedone | Slightly clogged pores | Oil and cuticle buildup |
| Closed comedones (whiteheads) | Raised skin surface | Hair follicles are completely blocked |
| Open comedones (blackheads) | Darkening of pore openings | Oil oxidation |
| inflammatory acne | redness, swelling, pain | bacterial infection |
| Pustules | There is pus on the top | Immune reaction produces pus |
3. The correct way to deal with acne pus
While popping a pimple can temporarily relieve discomfort, improper treatment may worsen the infection or leave scarring. Here are the steps to properly deal with acne pus:
1.Clean hands and skin: Use gentle cleansing product to clean acne areas to avoid bacterial infection.
2.Hot compress: Apply warm wet towel to acne for 5-10 minutes to help soften the skin and promote pus drainage.
3.Disinfect: Use alcohol or iodophor to disinfect acne and surrounding skin.
4.Squeeze gently(Optional): If the pimple is mature, you can use a sterilized cotton swab to gently press the surrounding skin to help drain the pus. Never squeeze directly with your fingers.
5.Disinfect again: After draining the pus, clean the area again with a disinfectant.
6.Apply anti-inflammatory ointment: Use ointments containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
4. Suggestions for preventing the formation of acne
Prevention is better than cure, the following measures can help reduce the occurrence of acne:
| measures | function |
|---|---|
| Clean skin regularly | Remove excess grease and dirt |
| Keep a balanced diet | Reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods |
| Get enough sleep | Regulate hormone levels |
| avoid excessive stress | Reduce stress hormone secretion |
| Do not touch your face randomly | Prevent the spread of germs |
5. When do you need medical treatment?
Most acne can be improved with home care, but it is recommended to seek professional medical help if:
1. Acne is numerous and covers a large area, which affects daily life.
2. Acne is accompanied by severe pain or persists.
3. Signs of infection such as obvious redness, swelling, fever, etc. appear after squeezing.
4. Acne reoccurs and home care is ineffective.
5. Acne will leave obvious scars or pigmentation after healing.
Although pus in acne is a symptom of skin problems, it is also a way for the body to protect itself. By understanding why it forms and how to properly treat it, we can better manage our skin health and avoid permanent damage.
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