Different Types of Acne

Understanding the different types of acne is essential for effective treatment and management. Acne varies in appearance, severity, and underlying causes. These are the kinds of acne that occur:

Non-Inflammatory Acne

• Blackheads (Open Comedones): These are small, dark spots on the skin’s surface. The dark color is not from dirt but from the oxidization of sebum and dead skin cells in open pores.
• Whiteheads (Closed Comedones): These appear as small, flesh-colored bumps. The pore is clogged but covered by a thin layer of skin, preventing oxidization, which keeps them white.

Inflammatory Acne

• Papules: These are small, red, raised bumps caused by infected hair follicles, often tender to the touch.
• Pustules: Similar to papules but filled with pus, these usually have a white or yellowish head with a red base.
• Nodules: These are large, hard, painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface, formed when clogged, swollen pores endure further irritation and grow larger.
• Cysts: The most severe type of acne, cysts are large, pus-filled lesions deep under the skin, often painful and prone to scarring.

Hormonal Acne

Typically appearing along the jawline and chin, this type is more common in women. It’s caused by hormonal imbalances and often correlates with menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Each type of acne requires a specific approach to treatment. Non-inflammatory acne can often be managed with over-the-counter treatments, while inflammatory acne may require prescription medication. Severe forms like cystic acne or acne fulminans often need more aggressive treatment strategies. Hormonal acne may respond well to hormonal therapies. Consulting with a dermatologist is crucial to determine the specific type of acne and to receive an appropriate treatment plan.

At Dermis Advanced Skin Care, we always recommend Medical Grade Skin Care Products to address acne.  These products may be effective on their own or may be used to augment in-office skin treatments such as Chemical Peels, Medical Facials, or Laser Acne treatments.

Several factors may influence the decision as to which treatment is selected.  Factors such as cost, time, convenience, skin type and previous acne treatments in Ottawa are all important.  A personal consultation with our experienced skin care team can help determine which treatment or combination of treatments is appropriate.

Come in for a personalized consultation and see what a positive difference customized treatments can make for your active acne.