Understanding the Different Types of Acne and How to Treat Them

If you have ever felt annoyed and troubled due to the unwelcomed pimples or acne or breakouts that appear on your skin, every now and then, let us tell you that you are not alone! From a big pesky pimple that pops up right before an important event, office meeting, or a festival at home to the persistent pimple that stays on your face no matter what you do to get rid of it, acne is the most common skin problems that affects majority of people, of all age groups, and skin types.

‘Acne vulgaris’ is the medical name for common acne and their presence in the form of blackheads, whiteheads, and other types of pimples on the skin. The most common spots for breakouts or acne are the face, chest, shoulders, and back.

Acne is one of the most common skin problems faced by people across the world, but there are many forms of it and hence the correct understanding of it is essential. You may have heard the term “breakout” used to describe all forms of acne, but this isn’t always an accurate description. Understanding the type of acne is the first step towards getting an effective treatment to cure it. Let’s explore in detail the different types of acne, their causes, symptoms, and effective treatment.

Different Types of Acne:

1. Comedonal Acne or Clogged Pores: A comedonal acne, or basic acne lesion, is a hair follicle that has become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Comedones (the plural of comedo) can develop into bumps called whiteheads and blackheads, these are non-inflammatory acne types. This type of acne happens because the pores in the skin are clogged. Clogged pores can happen when there’s too much oil or bacteria or when the dead skin isn’t shed off properly. This means the skin is not inflamed due to such acne and they do not even cause swelling or bumps like other acne types. Such clogged pores give rise to pimples also known as blackheads and whiteheads.

· Blackheads or Open Comedones: In simple terms, blackheads occur when the pore is clogged by a combination of sebum and dead skin cells and are seen as clogged pores with a black top. These blackheads are filled with excess oil and dead skin cells. If the pore fills with debris but stays open, you’ll see a blackhead. The black dots aren’t dirt, so avoid harsh scrubbing to the affected area. These can be generally treated with over-the-counter medicines or after consulting your dermatologist. 

· Whiteheads or Closed Comedones: These occur when your pores become clogged all the way through, creating a little white or flesh-colored bump on top of your skin. Whiteheads take place when oil and skin cells prevent a clogged hair follicle from opening. Both blackheads and whiteheads are usually the least severe form of acne. These can also be treated with over-the-counter medicines or after consulting your dermatologist.

2. Papules: Papules are small, red, and tender bumps or pimples. Papules take place when the surrounding walls of your pores break down from severe inflammation. This results in hard, clogged pores that are tender to the touch but do not contain pus. These papules eventually result in acne or breakouts.  Papules appear to look like a smooth red, violet, or brown skin bump and do not contain pus. Papules are inflammatory acne and often cause redness and swelling. Picking or squeezing can make the inflammation worse and may lead to scarring.

3. Pustules: Pustules are papules that contain pus. The pustules are yet another kind of inflamed pimple. They resemble a whitehead with a red ring around the bump. The bump is usually filled with white or yellow pus. Pustules occur when bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells push deeper into the skin. Picking or squeezing can make the inflammation worse and may lead to scarring.

4. Nodules or Deeper Pimples: The large and painful breakouts are called acne nodules which are caused by severe inflammation. Nodules occur when clogged, swollen pores endure further irritation and grow larger and they affect deeper layers of the pores and skin. Nodules are hard and painful lumps beneath the surface of your skin. Refrain from frequently touching or picking the affected area as it may worsen the inflammation and lead to scarring.

5. Cysts: Cysts can develop when pores are clogged by a combination of bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells. The clogs occur deep within the skin and are further below the surface than nodules. They are larger than pustules and are often located deep under the skin’s surface. Cysts are large, pus-filled lesions that look similar to boils. Like nodules, cysts can be painful and should be treated by a dermatologist since they also can scar.

6. Mild Acne: A mix or combination of whiteheads and blackheads along with a few papules and pustules, are called Mild Acne. It can usually be treated with over-the-counter acne medications. However, if the treatment gets delayed, they may turn into severe forms of acne.

Treatment of Acne: As we have now known in detail about the different types of acne and their causes, let’s explore ways to treat them

· Blackheads: It is suggested to use exfoliator infused with ingredients like Salicylic Acid and Retinoids to unclog pores and promote cell turnover. Using a Clay Mask can also help to draw out impurities and excess oil from the pores, at least once a week.

· Whiteheads: It is suggested to use mild exfoliators having a base of either Salicylic Acid or Glycolic Acid to help unclog the clogged pores. In order to reduce excess sebum production, it is advisable to use oil-free cleansers in your skincare regimen.

· Papules: It is suggested to use anti-inflammatory products consisting of Benzoyl Peroxide and Niacinamide that help reduce redness and swelling. Regular application of Salicylic Acid or Tea Tree Oil directly to the affected areas helps soothe the inflamed skin. It is strictly advisable to avoid picking papules which can cause scarring and worsen the inflammation.

· Pustules: It is suggested to use a Benzoyl Peroxide-based spot treatment to kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce pus. In order to reduce swelling and redness, try using sulfur-based products and ensure sufficient hydration and moisturization of skin. It is strictly advisable to avoid picking pustules which can cause scarring and worsen the inflammation.

· Nodules: These are severe forms of acne and require prescribed medicines after consulting the doctor. However, mild and gentle products with anti-inflammatory ingredients like Green Tea Extract or Aloe Vera can help soothe skin and reduce inflammation, swelling, and redness. It is strictly advisable to avoid picking nodules which can cause scarring and worsen the inflammation.

· Cysts: Cysts often require oral medication including antibiotics or hormone treatment. It is advisable to use non-irritating, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers to avoid aggravating the skin further. It is strictly advisable to avoid picking cysts which can cause scarring and worsen the inflammation.

It is always recommended to consult a doctor before taking any over the counter medicines or following any treatments on your own.

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