Types of Acne and How to Treat Them

Marriah Dhariwala

Types of Acne

Acne is a popular skin condition that affects almost everyone at some point or the other. It is a skin concern that most people associate with teenagers, but it is also one of the most common skin conditions in adults. While it is mostly characterized by the appearance of pimples and blackheads on the skin, acne can be of many types.

So, what are these types?

Acne can be broadly classified into two types:

1. Non-Inflammatory Acne

As the name suggests, there is no visible inflammation or swelling around this kind of acne, and they are generally quite easy to treat with appropriate solutions and OTC products. They are of two types:

i. Blackheads -

Blackheads are a result of dirt, sebum and dead cells clogging up the pores. Despite it being clogged up, the top of the pores still remain open and as it interacts with oxygen, it slowly turns black. Thus appearing as tiny black protrusions.

Checkout: What are Blackheads? Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

ii. Whiteheads

Whiteheads are also a result of clogged-up pores, but unlike blackheads, the pores are completely blocked by dirt, dead cells and sebum. They appear as tiny white bumps on the surface of the skin.

Checkout: White Heads: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

2. Inflammatory Acne

When your acne is red, painful and swollen, it is called Inflammatory Acne. Although dirt, sebum and dead cells are key factors for this type of acne, bacteria also play an important role. It can cause an infection deep under the skin and make the acne worse.

This type of Acne is further classified into 4 types:

i. Papules:

When the inflammation gets worse and damages your pores, they turn pink and tender to touch. This type of acne is called Papules.

ii. Pustules:

Sometimes the acne comedones get filled with pus due to sebum, bacteria and dead cells. This type of acne appears as red bumps on the surface of the skin with white or yellowish heads.

iii. Nodules:

Nodules occur when the bacterial infection gets worse and causes the pores to grow larger and more swollen. They go deeper into the skin than pustules and papules and are difficult to treat without prescription medication.

iv. Cysts:

Cysts are the largest and the worst kind of acne. They are painfully big red or white bumps on the skin that often scar. It occurs due to severe infection and can only be treated with professional help.

How to treat different types of acne?

Step 1: Determine if the inflammation is actually the result of acne or some other underlying skin concern.

Step 2: For Blackheads and Whiteheads, you need not worry. They are the mildest forms of acne and can be treated very easily with Salicylic Acid.

Step 3: For moderate types of acne, such as papules and pustules, actives like Retinoids, Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid work great. They prevent bacterial growth, control inflammation and help unclog the pores.

Step 4: Nodules and Cysts, the most difficult and painful type of acne, need professional help. Dermatologists usually prescribe oral treatments such as antibiotics to help reduce the infection. In case of extremely severe cysts, the dermatologist may suggest surgery too.

Top Picks to Treat Acne

If blackheads and whiteheads are a concern for you, you should try gentle exfoliating products like

1. The 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum by DermDoc

DermDoc 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum (15 ml) — **Click Image for Best Price**

Customer Rating: 4.1 / 5

Net Volume: 15ml

Explore: DermDoc Serums

2. The Good Vibes Tea Tree Cleansing Mask.

Good Vibes Tea Tree Cleansing Mask (50g) — **Click Image for Best Price**

Customer Rating: 4.3 / 5

Net Volume: 50g

Explore: Good Vibes Face Pack

To keep acne at bay and prevent it from developing in the first place, incorporate an exfoliating face wash into your daily skincare routine. We recommend