Different Types Of Acne

Acne, one of the worst skin problems that can trouble you, begins with one basic lesion. Called a comedo, it emerges in the form of an enlarged hair follicle, which is plugged with oil and bacteria. As soon as its gets a chance, the comedo grows into a full-fledged and inflamed lesion. The swollen follicle is full of bacteria, which burgeons as the skin produces more oil. Soon, the surrounding skin becomes increasingly inflamed and what you have is an acne outbreak. Though the basis of all acne is the same, their type is not. In case you want to make yourself aware of the different types of acne that can trouble your skin, check out the information given below.

 

The various types of acne that can affect a person can be broadly divided into two categories - inflammatory acne and non-inflammatory acne. Let us explore both of them in detail.

 

 

If the plugged follicle does not get a chance to erupt on the surface of the skin, rather remains embedded beneath it, it is termed as a closed comedo or even a whitehead. It can be seen on the skin surface in the form of a small, whitish bump.

 

If the plugged follicle gets positive conditions to thrive and expand, it ends up pushing through the surface of the skin and is known as an open comedo or a blackhead. As the name suggests, it has a black tip, not because of dirt, but resulting from a buildup of melanin, the dark pigment of your skin.

 

 

The acne that is visible on your skin in the form of a small, firm pink bump is often termed as a papule. It represents a form of inflammatory acne and is often sensitive to the touch. At times, it is even regarded as the stage between non-inflammatory and clearly inflammatory lesions.

 

Pustules can be described as small lesions, which have a round shape. Filled with pus, they often appear red at the base and have a yellowish or whitish center. However, unlike other types of acne, the inflammation in this lesion is not a result of bacteria; rather it is caused by chemical irritation from sebum components, such as fatty free acids.

 

Nodule is another lesion that is characterized with pus and inflammation. At the same time, it is also large in size and usually very painful. It is counted amongst the most severe forms of acne lesion and comes into being when the contents of a comedo spill into the surrounding skin, making the local immune system respond by producing pus. It can result in deep scars as well.

 

This is one of the most serious forms of inflammatory acne. However, at the same time, it is quite rare in nature and not seen commonly. It usually spreads over the back, buttocks and chest of a person. It is characterized by both pustules and nodules. Along with that, there might be the presence of a severe bacterial infection as well.