Acne is one of the most common types of skin conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. To get it, oil, dead skin cells, and germs get stuck in hair follicles or pores, creating a bump on skin, referred to as acne. People of all ages can get this skin condition, even though teens are more likely to have it. There are different types of acne, and each has its own reasons and signs. Knowledge of these types can help you choose the best acne treatment strategy. Below, we will discuss what causes acne, its different forms, approaches to manage acne prone skin, and effective home remedies to address this skin condition.
Different Types of Acne
Acne comes in various forms, each with unique causes, symptoms, and treatments. Identifying the type of acne is essential for effective management and prevention. Moreover, along with acne types, there are different types of acne scars too, including hypertrophic scars (which are raised), atrophic scars (which are sunken), and hyperpigmentation (causes dark spots). Now let’s understand the types of acne, its causes and symptoms:
Cystic Acne
One of the worst acne conditions is cystic acne. Deep, pus-filled pimples and lumps form under the skin. Large, painful cysts can leave scars if not addressed appropriately.
Causes
- Making too much grease
- Infection by bacteria
- Reaction of the skin to inflammation
Symptoms
- Bumps that are deep and full of pus
- Rosacea and swelling
- Uncomfortable bumps under the skin
Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis)
Fungal acne differs from other acne-prone skin conditions because yeast develops in hair follicles instead of bacteria. It often causes itching and swelling, which is uncomfortable.
Causes:
- Malassezia yeast growing too much in hair strands
- Places that are hot and damp
- Use of skin care items that are oily
Symptoms:
- Small bumps that are spread out
- Feeling itchy and red
- Mostly on the shoulders, back, and chest
Hormonal Acne
Hormone changes, especially changes in androgens like testosterone, can cause hormonal acne. Women are more likely to get it, especially during their periods, pregnancy, and menopause.
Causes:
- More sebum creation because of changes in hormones
- Having too many oils glands
- Hormonal instability caused by stress
Symptoms:
- Acne that is deep and hurts
- It mainly shows up on the lips, jawline, and chin.
- Every month, around the same time
Nodular Acne
Nodular acne, which causes painful, big pimples on the skin and deeper nodules, is another significant type of body acne. Nodule acne has no pus, whereas cystic acne does.
Causes:
- Making too much oil
- Bacteria grow in openings that are blocked
- Response of inflammation to germs and oil buildup
Symptoms:
- Firm, hurtful bumps under the skin
- The skin around the lumps is red and swollen
- Sometimes, it lasts for weeks or months
Blackheads and Whiteheads (Comedonal Acne)
Blackheads and whiteheads are the most common types of acne-prone skin. They appear when pores get plugged with oil and dead skin cells, but they don’t really itch.
Causes
- Making too much grease
- Bad habits with skin care
- Getting exposed to pollution and makeup
Symptoms:
- Blackheads are pores that are open and have a black top from oxidation.
- Closing pores and a white or flesh-coloured bump are called whiteheads.
Papules and Pustules
When pores get clogged and infected, redness and swelling happen because of papules and pustules, which are inflammatory types of body acne.
Causes:
- Infection with bacteria in clogged holes
- Skin irritation caused by makeup or skin care items
- Changes in hormones that cause acne
Symptoms:
- Papules are small, red, uncomfortable bumps that don’t have pus inside them.
- Like papules, pustules are filled with white or yellow pus.
How to Get Rid of Acne with Effective Approaches
Lifestyle adjustments and therapies can manage and prevent acne breakouts. Some crucial plans to avoid different types of acne:
- Stick to a good skin care practice: To avoid clogged pores and forehead acne, use gentle cleansers and non-comedogenic products.
- A good diet matters: Eat less sugar, dairy, and whey protein to avoid acne.
- Manage stress: Increased stress can elevate cortisol, causing hormonal acne.
- Consult a dermatologist: Serious acne conditions including cystic and nodular acne treatment require prescription medicines or laser therapy.
- Home remedies for acne: Natural treatments like aloe vera and tea tree oil can be one of the effective solutions for back acne treatment. However, it is recommended to take a proper consultation with a skin specialist before you use this essential oil.
Summary
After going through the above things you must have gained the insights about what is acne, its different types, and how it can be managed. Wrapping it up, it is a skin problem that comes in many forms, from mild to severe. The proper acne treatment must be chosen, and long-term skin damage must be avoided by being aware of the various types of acne. The best acne treatment choice for your acne prone skin should be discussed with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing severe or persistent types of acne.
