Types of Acne

Acne manifests in various forms, each with its own characteristics and treatment approaches. Understanding the different types of acne is crucial in effectively managing and addressing specific skin concerns. From whiteheads to cystic acne, let’s explore the diverse range of acne types and gain insights into their symptoms and treatments.

1. Whiteheads

Whiteheads, also known as closed comedones, are a common type of acne that manifests as small, white bumps on the skin’s surface. They occur when hair follicles become clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Unlike blackheads, whiteheads have a closed surface, which prevents the oxidation of sebum and gives them their distinctive colour.

Symptoms: Small, white or flesh-coloured bumps on the skin.

Treatment: Over-the-counter topical treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Maintaining good skincare habits, such as regular cleansing and exfoliation, is also crucial for managing whiteheads.

2. Blackheads

Blackheads, also known as open comedones, are another common form of acne. They are characterised by small, dark bumps on the skin’s surface. Blackheads occur when the hair follicles become clogged with excess sebum and dead skin cells, but the pore remains open, allowing the sebum to oxidize and turn black.

Symptoms: Small, dark bumps on the skin’s surface.

Treatment: Over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid or retinoids can help unclog the pores and reduce blackheads. Regular exfoliation and professional extraction may also be beneficial in managing this type of acne.

3. Papules

Papules are small, red, and inflamed bumps that develop as a result of inflammation in the hair follicles. They are typically tender to the touch and do not contain pus. Papules can be caused by excess oil production, bacteria, or an immune response to acne-causing factors.

Symptoms: Small, red, inflamed bumps without a visible center of pus.

Treatment: Topical treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or antibiotics can help reduce inflammation and clear papules. Refraining from squeezing or picking at papules is crucial to prevent further irritation and potential scarring.

4. Pustules

Pustules are similar to papules in appearance but contain pus at their centres. They are often referred to as “pimples” and can be red or yellow in color. Pustules occur when the hair follicles become infected with bacteria, leading to inflammation and the formation of pus.

Symptoms: Red, inflamed bumps with a visible centre of pus.

Treatment: Topical treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or antibiotics can help reduce inflammation and eliminate bacteria. It is essential to avoid popping or squeezing pustules to prevent the spread of infection and scarring.

5. Nodules

Nodules are larger, painful, and deep-seated acne lesions that develop beneath the surface of the skin. They are a severe form of acne and can take weeks or even months to heal. Nodules occur when clogged pores become further inflamed, causing the follicle wall to rupture deep within the skin. This leads to the formation of hard, painful nodules.

Symptoms: Large, painful, and deep-seated bumps beneath the skin’s surface.

Treatment: Since nodules are deeper and more stubborn than other forms of acne, professional treatment is often required. Dermatologists may prescribe oral medications such as antibiotics or isotretinoin to reduce inflammation and prevent future breakouts. In some cases, cortisone injections or surgical drainage may be necessary.

6. Cystic Acne

Cystic acne is one of the most severe types of acne, characterised by large, inflamed, pus-filled cysts that are painful to touch. It occurs when bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells clog the hair follicles, leading to deep and widespread inflammation. Cystic acne can leave behind scars and often requires intensive treatment.

Symptoms: Large, painful, deep-seated cysts filled with pus.

Treatment: Treating cystic acne usually requires a combination of topical and oral medications prescribed by a dermatologist. Oral antibiotics, isotretinoin, or hormonal therapies may be recommended to address the underlying causes of cystic acne. Dermatologists may also perform procedures like drainage or cortisone injections to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

7. Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne is primarily influenced by hormonal fluctuations in the body, typically associated with puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause. It commonly manifests as papules, pustules, or cysts along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks. Hormonal imbalances can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores, contributing to acne development.

Symptoms: Acne breakouts primarily along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks.

Treatment: Dermatologists may recommend hormonal therapies such as birth control pills or anti-androgen medications to regulate hormone levels and control acne. Topical treatments and other oral medications can also be used in combination with hormonal therapies to achieve better results.

8. Comedonal Acne

Comedonal acne refers to the presence of comedones, which are non-inflammatory acne lesions. It includes both whiteheads and blackheads and is often associated with mild acne. Comedonal acne is caused by the accumulation of dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria within the hair follicles.

Symptoms: Presence of whiteheads and blackheads without significant inflammation.

Treatment: Topical retinoids are commonly prescribed to accelerate skin cell turnover, unclog pores, and prevent the formation of comedones. Gentle exfoliation and regular cleansing can also help remove dead skin cells and excess sebum.

9. Acne Conglobata

Acne conglobata is a severe and rare form of acne that often develops in young adults, particularly males. It is characterised by interconnected nodules and abscesses, which can cause scarring and significant damage to the skin. Acne conglobata can have a profound impact on a person’s physical and emotional well-being.

Symptoms: Interconnected nodules and abscesses, severe inflammation, scarring.

Treatment: Treatment for acne conglobata requires the expertise of a dermatologist. Oral isotretinoin, along with systemic antibiotics, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and control bacterial infection. Corticosteroid injections may be used to alleviate severe inflammation. Additionally, the dermatologist may recommend procedures such as surgical excision or laser therapy to address scarring.