The 3 Most Common Types of Acne and How to Treat Them

Understanding the Main Types of Acne

Frustrated by acne plaguing your complexion? You're not alone. Acne is the most common skin condition, impacting around 85% of people at some point. Understanding the different categories of acne and their distinguishing characteristics is key to getting a handle on treatment. 

Let's explore the three main classifications of acne and what sets each one apart.

Non-Inflammatory Acne

Non-inflammatory acne is characterized by clogged pores and comedones that don’t appear red or inflamed. The two main subtypes are:

Whiteheads

Whiteheads form when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria become trapped within a blocked pore. This gives the appearance of tiny white bumps under the skin's surface. Whiteheads contain all the clog substances below the skin rather than exposed to the air.

Blackheads

Blackheads also arise from congested pores filled with the same debris and bacteria. But in blackheads, the contents make contact with air which oxidizes and turns dark in color, creating the trademark black coloring in the center of the bump.

While frustrating, non-inflammatory types of acne are more manageable than inflammatory acne. Keeping pores clear and exfoliating gently can help prevent buildup that leads to whiteheads and blackheads.

Inflammatory Acne

Inflammatory acne occurs when a blocked pore becomes infected and irritated, triggering swelling, redness, and potential scarring. Inflamed pimples are categorized as: 

Papules

Papules emerge when debris-clogged pores progress to inflamed bumps. The bacteria, oil, and dead skin have provoked immune responses which cause small, tender, red lesions on the skin. Papules signal acne is advancing to an inflammatory state.

Pustules 

Pustules take it a step further. Now the swollen, inflamed pimple becomes filled with white pus made up of oil, bacteria, and white blood cells. Pustules form when your body sends extra immune cells to fight the infection.

Nodules 

Nodules represent a more severe form of acne inflammation. They are large, painful, pus-filled lumps lodged deep within the skin. Nodules develop from very clogged pores that rupture beneath the skin, provoking significant inflammation.  

Inflammatory acne needs care to avoid scarring. Seeing a dermatologist can help create an acne treatment plan targeting inflammation.

Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne flares up in correlation with fluctuating hormone levels, most commonly during puberty, menstruation, and perimenopause. However, it can happen at other times of hormonal change like pregnancy or starting new medications. 

Hormones including androgens, insulin, cortisol, and prostaglandins trigger increased oil production and skin cell turnover. This fuels congestion, bacteria proliferation, and inflammation - the perfect storm for acne breakouts.

Hormonal acne frequently forms on the lower face along the jawline, chin, and neck area as this skin has more oil glands. Identifying and addressing hormonal triggers is key to managing this type of acne.

 

 Seeking Acne Treatment 

There are many over-the-counter and prescription acne treatment options available. Dermatologists can help identify the type of acne present and devise a customized treatment plan. Key factors they assess include:

- Type of acne - non-inflammatory, inflammatory, or hormonal

- Severity of breakouts - mild, moderate or severe  

- Location of lesions - face, back, chest 

- Potential scarring or hyperpigmentation 

- Underlying skincare routine, medications, and health conditions

An effective acne treatment regimen may include antibiotics, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, anti-androgens, and oral contraceptives along with the right gentle skincare products. Most people require 4-8 weeks of consistent treatment to see improvement.

While frustrating, acne is a manageable condition with the right information and care. Identifying your specific acne type is the critical first step toward clearer skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best treatment for hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne usually requires treatment both internally and topically. Oral medications like combined birth control pills, spironolactone, or oral antibiotics help regulate hormones and inflammation. Added topical remedies like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid clear pores.

How can you tell the difference between stress acne and hormonal acne?

Stress acne often shows up sporadically around times of high stress. It’s more variable. Hormonal acne follows cyclical fluctuations associated with periods, perimenopause, or medications. It manifests in consistent patterns. Knowing your cycle helps identify hormonal acne.

What foods should you avoid for acne?

While no foods conclusively cause acne, refined carbohydrates, sugary foods, and dairy may worsen it in some people. Stay hydrated, avoid processed foods, minimize sugar, and focus on a balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and healthy fats.

Should you pop pimples?

No, dermatologists strongly advise against popping pimples as this can push debris and bacteria deeper into pores, worsening inflammation and risk of scarring. Instead, use acne products to gently treat the area and allow pimples to resolve on their own. Don’t pick or squeeze.