Espinilla

Espinilla is a term commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries to refer to a pimple or zit. It is a type of acne lesion, characterized by the inflammation of a pilosebaceous unit, which consists of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland. These lesions typically appear as small, red bumps, sometimes with a white or yellowish head containing pus.

The formation of espinillas is a multifactorial process. It begins with an overproduction of sebum, the oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands, often triggered by hormonal changes such as those occurring during puberty, menstruation, or due to stress. This excess sebum can mix with dead skin cells, creating a blockage within the hair follicle.

Bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, which naturally reside on the skin, can then proliferate within the blocked follicle. This bacterial overgrowth triggers an inflammatory response from the body, leading to the characteristic redness, swelling, and pain associated with an espinilla.

Espinillas can manifest in various forms, including papules (small, red bumps), pustules (papules with a visible pus head), nodules (larger, painful lumps deep under the skin), and cysts (painful, pus-filled lumps that can cause scarring). While espinillas are most common on the face, they can also appear on the neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Treatment options range from over-the-counter topical creams and lotions containing ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to prescription medications and in-office procedures.