Know Different Types Of Acne

Acne is a skin irritation that affects millions of people around the world. There are different types of acne ranging from mild to severe. Mild irritation can be self cured with home remedies while the severe ones have to be treated by dermatologists.

Acne usually affects the pores of the skin. These under the skin pores have sebaceous glands that produce sebum or oil. These glands are activated by hormones. Hormonal imbalance can sometimes cause these glands to over produce oil. This excess oil gets clogged in the skin pores feeding acne bacteria and hence the skin infection is caused.

Different Types Of Acne

• Acne Vulgaris - This is the most common type of acne. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts.
• Blackheads - Partially blocked pore causes blackheads. Some of the oil, bacteria and dead skin cells slowly comes up to the skin surface. The black color in them is not because of dirt but it is caused by melanin in the skin. Blackheads take a longer time to heal.
• Whiteheads - These are caused by completely blocked pores which hold sebum, bacteria and dry cells. Whiteheads are formed under the surface of the skin.
• Papules - These are small, red, inflamed, tender bumps that are head-less. You should never squeeze a papule as it may leave scars.
• Pustules - The common name for pustules is pimples or zits. They are red circles with a white or yellow centre. Pustules should not be popped since they can spread infection and become painful.
• Nodules - These are very large as compared with the other types of acne. Nodules are very hard and they are formed under the surface of the skin. They can be painful and usually last for several months. Do not touch, squeeze or pop this type of acne otherwise it can leave scars. It is better to consult a dermatologist for treating nodules.
• Cysts - They look similar to nodules but are pus-filled. They are painful and very prone to scarring. Cysts should also be treated by dermatologists.
• Acne Rosacea - It looks so similar to acne vulgaris that these two types of acne are sometimes mistaken for each other. It is generally common in women above the age of 30. It appears as a red rash on the face along with bumps and pimples. It is better to consult a dermatologist for treating this type of acne.
• Acne Conglobata - This is a very severe but rare type of acne which can cause harsh physical suffering. It is actually very traumatizing. Large lesions appear on the face as well as on the other parts of body. It is also characterized by widespread blackheads. It can damage the skin by leaving permanent scars.
• Acne Fulminans - This is actually a sudden formation of acne conglobata. It is characterized by fever and joint pain. This can be treated by taking steroids.