The Different Types of Acne and How to Identify Them

Acne

The Different Types of Acne and How to Identify Them

Is it embarrassing and difficult to deal with acne? Confused what treatment to try? Remedy which works for your friend with acne is not working for you? Of course, will not. Acne is due to many reasons and the remedy you try should be based on the cause of the acne to work. Know about your acne then try home remedies.

Yes, Acne can appear in many different forms, and knowing which type of acne you have can help you determine the best way to treat it. In this article, we will take a look at the different types of acne and how to identify them.

Acne is an inflammatory disorder and is prevalent in adolescence, and it persists through the early thirties. When assessing the severity of the acne, one needs to consider the distribution (back, chest, upper arms), type of lesions (comedones, papules, pustules, nodules) and the presence or absence of scarring. About 20% of the affected individuals develop severe acne, which results in scarring.

Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is triggered by the microorganism Propionibacterium acnes during adolescence. Acne is also associated with seborrhoea. One of the most prevalent skin disorder acne can affect people of any age or gender. Teens at home are often worried about acne that is common when they grow. Why during adolescence period teenage boys and girls develop acne? Sebum secretion increases during puberty due to the effect of androgens. This sebum which is responsible for greasiness clogs the pore and causes acne.

Common Forms of Acne:

There are several forms of acne that dermatologists examine most frequently. Whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts are a few of them. Every variety of acne differs in its traits and underlying reasons, and some can even be more severe than others.

Comedones

Comedones, also known as blackheads or whiteheads, are small bumps on the skin caused by clogged pores. The most prevalent form of acne is whiteheads. The face and neck are the most common places where these tiny, white pimples can be found. Clogged pores from excessive sebum production, germs, and filth are what give rise to whiteheads. Another form of acne that commonly affects the face and neck is blackheads. These are tiny, black spots that develop when bacteria and sebum clog a pore.

Papules

Little, red pimples called papules are frequently found on the face and neck. These bumps may be painful and may contain whiteheads or blackheads. Papular acne is often caused by a combination of factors, including hormones, genetics, and bacteria. An overproduction of oil, called sebum, which clogs pores and traps bacteria may also lead to papules.

Pustular Acne

Another form of acne known as pustules is distinguished by red lumps that are filled with a yellowish-white pus. Inflammation, plugged pores, and germs can all lead to pustules. These pustules often appear on the face, chest, back, or other areas of the body that are prone to acne. Topical creams, antibiotics, and other drugs can be used to treat them. In severe cases, isotretinoin may also be prescribed.

Nodular Acne

Large, hard bumps called nodules are frequently found on the face and neck. Nodules can be uncomfortable and are brought on by clogged pores and irritation. Antibiotics, topical medicines, and other therapies can be used to treat nodules. Some may need Isotretinoin, a prescription medication if acne is severe. Only a medical professional can effectively treat this type of severe acne and help you avoid scarring. Never take isotretinoin without Dermatologist advice to avoid side effects. At times to treat cysts and inflammatory papules intralesional injections may also be suggested by healthcare provider.

Never pick, squeeze or try to pop an acne nodule or pimple. Doing so can make the nodule more painful and increase the risk of severe scarring.

Cystic Acne

The most serious form of acne is cysts. Cystic acne is a painful, pus-filled pimple that forms deep under the skin. In cystic acne, bacteria also get into the clogged pores, causing swelling or inflammation. Opening up acne cysts by popping or picking them increases the risk of scarring and bacterial skin infections. Some people develop pigmentation (light or dark) spots in the area of the acne cyst after the skin clears up. The treatment of cystic acne will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, topical treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may be effective. For more severe cases, oral antibiotics or isotretinoin may be prescribed. Treatment may also include lifestyle modifications such as reducing stress levels, and using oil-free cosmetics.

How to Identify Acne

Comedones: Comedones are small, white or black bumps on the skin. They are generally painless and can be easily seen.

Papules: Papules are small, red bumps on the skin that are generally painful to the touch.

Pustules: Pustules are white or yellow-coloured bumps that are filled with pus and are usually painful.

Nodules: Nodules are large, hard bumps on the skin that can be painful to the touch.

Cysts: Cysts are large, inflamed bumps that are filled with pus and can be painful.

Factors that Aggravate Acne Include:

  • Oil-based cosmetics and unwanted facial massage
  • Premenstrual flare-ups, which occur in 70% of female patients.
  • Severe anxiety and anger can make acne worse, possibly by stimulating stress hormones.
  • Fungal or bacterial infection that rises sebum and oiliness.
  • Hormonal imbalance and puberty.

Treating Acne:

The treatment for acne will depend on its severity and the type of acne.

Mild acne can often be treated with over-the-counter medications such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

Moderate to severe acne may require prescription medications such as topical creams, oral antibiotics, or isotretinoin. Intralesional injections, lasers performed by Cosmetic Dermatologists can reduce the severity and appearance of scars caused by acne.

It’s important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for your acne and to get effective results.

Conclusion

If you have any questions or concerns about your acne, it is best to consult a dermatologist or other skin care professional. They can offer you with advice and treatment options to help reduce the effects of acne.


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