Types of Acne

When we define types of acne, we usually refer to whether it is inflammatory or not and the size and shape of the lesion.

There is the microscopic small comedonal acne that can be in the form of whiteheads (closed comedo) or blackheads (open comedo).

A more serious form of acne is nodules and pustules. Nodules are large and firm and exist below the skin, whereas pustules are yellowish bumps that are pus-filled.

There are acne forms which are non-inflammatory, carry no pus but only appear as red spots. These are commonly referred to as pimples.

Of all acne cases, cysts are the worst. Cysts are sac-like formations filled with pus that is spread under the skin tissue in a diameter of 5 mm or more across. The pus runs deep below the skin’s surface, which often results in serious pain. Not all cysts are caused by inner factors. Some may be the result of squeezing small pus-filled acne, causing the pus to run even deeper into the skin and aggravate the infection.

Acne vulgaris is the most common form of acne, containing both whiteheads and blackheads.

Acne rosacea is characterized by a flushed appearance of the face due to the enlargement of blood vessels which is caused by inflammatory bumps. The most common places acne rosacea appears are on the chin and forehead.

Perioral dermatitis is the form of acne which young women suffer from. The common places where these tiny papules appear are around the mouth and on the chin.

Acne conglobata is another severe form of acne that affects the chest, back, and the face. This is an intensive form of acne vulgaris where multiple cysts and nodules are spread in large areas. Acne conglobata is more common among men.