What Are the Four Types of Acne?

September 16, 2022

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, affecting as many as 80% of people at some point in their lives. It can be a serious problem that can cause permanent damage to your skin if it isn’t treated properly.

Luckily, there are plenty of effective acne treatments available that can banish acne for good! In this blog, we’ll cover the different types of acne and the best acne treatment options available to you. So, if you’re having problems with acne and don’t know what to do about it, read on!

What Is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The build-up prevents bacteria from being properly eliminated from the body, which can lead to infection and inflammation.

What Causes Acne?

Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including hormones, bacteria, and oil production. Genetics also plays a role in who is more likely to develop acne. In addition, certain medications, such as corticosteroids and lithium, can also cause acne.

Remember, picking or squeezing pimples can lead to more breakouts.

Different Types of Acne

There are four main types of acne: blackheads, whiteheads, papules (or pimples), and pustules (pimples with pus). Acne can also be classified as inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Blackheads and whiteheads are non-inflammatory, while papules and pustules are inflammatory.

1. Blackheads

A blackhead is a pimple that forms when oil and dead skin cells clog your pores. Whenthis happens, oxygen can’t reach the surface of your skin, causing the top of your pores to turn black. Blackheads are small, dark-colored bumps that show up on your skin.

They’re not usually painful, but they can be annoying.

2. Whiteheads

A whitehead is an acne blemish that appears on the skin as a small, pus-filled bump.

Whiteheads can also be called “comedones” because they’re only open on one end. They’re also sometimes called “milk spots” because they appear like milk dried on a surface. The best way to get rid of whiteheads is to exfoliate and apply a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide. In addition, products for acne-prone skin can help prevent new breakouts and decrease inflammation.

3. Papules

A papule is a small, raised bump on the surface of your skin that can be red, pink, or purple. Papules are usually caused by trapped dirt and oil in your pores.

You can treat them with over-the-counter products for acne-prone skin. But, to get rid of them, you’ll need to keep your skin clean and free of oil and dirt.

4. Pustules

They are typically red, pus-filled pimples that can either be single or in clusters. They appear as white lumps surrounded by reddish skin. Pustules can form as a result of many different factors, including bacterial infection, clogged pores, and inflammation.

Other types of acne include cysts and nodules. Cysts are pus-filled bumps that develop deep within the skin, whereas nodules are raised, inflamed areas that develop deep within the skin.

How to Get Rid of Acne

There are many ways to get rid of acne, but not all treatments work for everyone.

Products for acne-prone skin that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulfur may treat most types of acne. However, for severe cases or persistent cysts or pustules, antibiotics or laser therapy may be necessary for acne treatment. Make sure to consult with your dermatologist to find the best approach. To achieve clear skin, here are some general tips on how to get rid of acne:

• Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser.
• Keep your hands off your face.
• Avoid touching or picking at any blemishes.
• Stay away from foods with high levels of sugar and dairy products.
• Exfoliate regularly using chemical peels.
• Moisturize daily to prevent dryness.
• Wear sunscreen, especially if you have oily skin or an uneven complexion.
• Get enough sleep each night, so your body has time to repair itself.
• Don’t forget about mental health. Stress can trigger breakouts.

Bottom Line:

Acne treatment varies depending on the type of acne but typically includes a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. If you’re struggling with acne, talk to your Xthetics provider about the best course of treatment for you. At Xthetics, we offer many treatment options for acne. Chemical peels are one way to get rid of acne by improving the skin’s texture, tone, and appearance. Chemical peels can also help those who suffer from acne breakouts due to excessive oil production or an accumulation of dead skin cells in clogged pores.

Contact us today at Xthetics to learn more about our skincare products!