Acne is aggravating regardless of what it looks like or where it is.
However, understanding the different categories of acne are important to recognize to get the best acne treatment available.
Acne occurs when a pore gets clogged. Typically a pore clogs due to excess sebum secretion (natural oil produced by the body), dead skin cells, and bacteria. Additionally, fluctuating hormones trigger complex conditions beneath the skin creating acne, which is why teenagers often suffer from acne.
Acne actually begins to form days before it actually breaks out. It is prevalent in areas clustered with sebum glands, like the face, chest, shoulders, and back.
Mild acne such as whiteheads and blackheads are grouped in a category called acne vulgaris. Whiteheads have a faster life cycle than blackheads. And contrary to popular belief, blackheads are actually not caused by dirt.
Pustules are pus-filled white heads. With any form of acne, it is best to leave it alone. However, not many people are comfortable leaving pustules visible. Popping a pustule should be done delicately and as sanitary as possible to avoid spreading the infection.
Papules are inflammations with no pus formation. These pimples are usually red, swollen, and tender. Trying to pop a papule will actually cause scarring.
More severe acne consists of nodules. Nodules are larger than pustules and typically swell under the skin. Nodules can be broken down into smaller categories like cysts. Cysts are filled with pus, but run deep into the skin. Cysts tend to be painful and cause scarring. This type of acne is best addressed by a dermatologist.
Acne rosacea is often found in adults. This type of acne is a series of inflamed bumps that resemble flushing. This redness is usually on the cheeks, nose, or chin. It is more prevalent in women, and treatment is different than average acne fighting treatments.
The variations of acne affect everyone differently. Getting treatment can be over-the-counter or require prescription medication. Unfortunately, there is no cure for acne and it does not discriminate based on age.