types of acne

When treating acne, it’s important to distinguish the different types. Below you will find a list of the 4 common types of acne.

black spots

Blackheads are partial pore blockage by sebum and dead skin cells. Because they are partially blocked, oil can still reach the skin from the glands below. Contrary to what many people believe, blackheads are not ‘black’ from dirt, but from the pigment of dead skin cells. When these dead skin cells reach the pore, they open up to the air, discolor and turn black.

white dots

Whiteheads are the total blockage of the pore by sebum and dead skin cells. As the sebum accumulates under the skin, it turns into a “white” substance and is basically a small collection of pus around the hair follicle.

nodules and pustules

The pustules are what are commonly known as pimples. These are pus-filled legions that are red at the base. Nodules are the large solid legions that are usually found deeper under the skin and can be quite painful to the touch. When the pore becomes clogged, an enzyme is produced to break down the sebum into a “fatty acid”. It is this substance that causes pain, swelling, and redness.

cysts

This is the most serious form of acne caused by inflammation deep under the skin. If the pimples are squeezed and the pus is pushed under the skin, swelling will begin. The body sends white blood cells to its defense and cystic formation can occur. This type of acne has the greatest threat of scarring the skin. Even after acne has healed, permanent scarring can remain on the skin.