Types of Acne

Acne starts in a similar way for all but can take different forms and can react in a unique way according to the body conditions of the individual. Two main types of acne include non-inflammatory acne and inflammatory acne.

If the plugged follicle stays below the surface of the skin, the lesion is called a closed acne. This usually appears on the skin as small, whitish bumps. This condition is otherwise called as Whitehead.

If the plug enlarges and pushes through the surface of the skin, the lesion is called an open acne. The dark appearance of the plug is not due to dirt, but due to the buildup of melanin, the pigmentation element of the skin. This condition is otherwise called as Blackhead.

Acne Vulgaris is the most common type of acne and is composed of both blackheads and whiteheads. This is not very serious though can be easily treated with both over the counter and prescription medications.

Acne Rosacea is a skin disorder leading to redness and pimples on the nose, forehead, cheekbones, and chin. The face can also looked flushed giving the affected person an impression of being drunk. Rosacea is common among middle aged adults.

Acne Cysts are large pus-filled lesions that are usually present deep within the skin. The cysts are very painful lesions, as they are inflamed. Cysts form as a result of the contents of a comedo spilling over the surrounding skin and due to the response of the local immune system in producing pus. The cysts often leave deep scars.
Acne Cysts are probably the worst. They are big and typically painful, especially to the touch. These cysts are inflamed and are pus-filled lesions that dig deep in the skin. This is formed when the comendo has spread in the surrounding skin.

Acne Conglobata is a rare but serious form of inflammatory acne that develops primarily on the back, buttocks, and chest. In addition, to the presence of pustules and cysts, there may be severe bacterial infection. Acne Conglobata is a severe form of nodular cystic acne vulgaris that extensively affects the face, chest and back. Multiple inflamed and non-inflamed nodules and scars are found in many parts of the body. A severe form of acne conglobata is the very rare Acne fulminan. This is very common among men.

Some women get affected with perioral dermatitis wherein small pustules and papules form on the chin, around the mouth and sometimes near the forehead and eyelids. The cause for this may be attributed to fluorinated toothpaste and steroids, which is also the cause of corticosteroid acne.

Even babies are not spared from acne. Although rare, infantile acne can be present on new born babies. This is no reason to worry though because this kind of acne is very mild and may disappear after a few weeks. This may be caused by fetal hormones.

There is also a type of acne that develops in the scalp and is called Scalp folliculitis. Lack of hygienic practice in the scalp area and oily type of hair can accumulate bacteria to form acne. This type of acne can be treated with acne-fighting shampoos.

The best first step in treating acne is to have knowledge about it and how to treat it. Relying on commercially available products may do the trick but this does not happen all the time.