What Are The Different Types Of Acne?
Posted on: 26 December 2019
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When talking about acne, we normally get a mental image of someone having pimples on their face. However, acne can appear in several different forms and may also be on other areas of the body as well. Knowing how to treat acne depends mainly on what type of acne a person has. These are some of the different types of acne.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne may occur during puberty, when women have their monthly periods, and during pregnancy. It is caused by a change in a person's hormone levels which then makes the body produce much more oil in the skin than normal. This type of acne often appears as several small pimples on the cheeks, jawline, or both.
You can treat this type of acne by using a combination of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid on the affected areas several times a day. If you notice this happens at the same time every month, you can also these medications on those areas a week or so before breakouts occur to help prevent acne or decrease the severity of it.
Blackheads And Whiteheads
Both blackheads and whiteheads can be identified somewhat easily. Blackheads have tiny black dots that are in the center of pimples and whiteheads appear as though pimples have white skin layers over them. These types of acne are caused by clogged pores. Blackheads are pores clogged with dirt and dead skin cells and whiteheads are pores clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Blackheads and whiteheads can occur in any area of the body.
Treating blackheads and whiteheads is a two-step process. First, use an exfoliating cleanser to remove dead skin cells and dirt from the area. Then, apply an astringent of salicylic acid to dry up excess oil in the skin. Do this 2–3 times a day and the acne should clear up within a week.
Inflammatory Acne
Inflammatory acne can be in the form of either papules or pustules. Papules are patches of small red pimples that do not come to a head. Pustules are patches of small pimples that are filled with white or yellow pus. Inflammatory acne is caused by bacteria that enter the pores and cause them to become inflamed. This type of acne can be on any area of the body and is treated by washing the face with a deep cleansing face wash and applying benzoyl peroxide 2–3 times a day.
Cystic Acne
Cystic acne is very large angry pimples that may also be painful. Usually, the person may have several of these close together in the same area of skin. Cystic acne may occur due to hormones or it may also be a genetic condition. It can be treated with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, but in most cases, it is necessary to see a dermatologist to clear up cystic acne.
If acne is so severe that it cannot be treated with over the counter medications, it is best to see a dermatologist. There are many prescription medications that can clear up acne and make a noticeable improvement in the condition of the skin.
For more information, contact an acne treatment service in your area.