- Whitehead Acne – This type of acne occurs when a pore is filled with sebum (oil) beneath the skin. There is no contact between the sebum and the air outside.
- Blackhead Acne – This is the same as a whitehead, except that the pore is open and exposure to the air causes the sebum to darken.
- Papules – The occurrence of small, red bumps that are tender and inflamed.
- Nodules – Large, solid lumps that occur under the skin’s surface, and which are painful. Nodules occur when the oil and other debris trapped inside the pore break through to the layer below.
- Cystic Lesions – These are pus-filled lumps, or cysts, that are below the surface of the skin and which are also painful. This type of acne is most likely to lead to scarring when left untreated.
Types of Acne and Their Treatment
Share
Although both teens and adults have to worry about acne outbreaks, there are different forms and severities of the condition, according to the Mayo Clinic. Many people find it difficult to find the best acne products for the type of acne they have. Most products purchased over-the-counter refer to acne as a single condition, but there are a few different types.