The term "acne" is actually very broad. There are many forms of skin condition --from mild to extreme -- that fall under this broad category. The vast majority are completely harmless, and easily treated, but each different type of acne may have slight different treatments. Keep reading for more information.
Acne Vulgaris
Though we often use the word "vulgar" to mean "offensive," I wouldn't worry about it's use in the name here. The original meaning of the word is "common." So you may have guessed that this is the commonest form of acne. It can be broken down into these more specific signs.
Whiteheads - Caused by completely blocked pores, these white bumps are usually filled with fluid (e.g. pus) that results from the blockage. These pimples can be popped with a minimum of scarring, and if kept clean aren't likely to immediately recur, or you can allow them to naturally heal.
Blackheads - Blackheads are partially blocked pores. They are longer-lasting than whiteheads, which will often disappear on their own. Contrary to popular belief, the black color comes from the skin's reaction to oxygen and not dirt.
Papules - These pimples show up as red, sensitive bumps. They can be a bit sore, and one may be tempted to squeeze them to get rid of them faster. It's not likely to help, though, and they should be allowed to just fade away. Too much squeezing can result in scarring.
Pustules - These are also red, tender growths on the skin, but they will have a white or yellow head containing some pus. These zits can be drained by squeezing, which will help the skin return to normal faster.
Nodules - These are large, hard bumps usually just under the surface of the skin. It's a more severe form of acne, so it's fairly uncommon. It may be sore and last for quite some time. Without effective treatment, they may even cause some minor skin complications. Dermatologists may use cortisone to eliminate these nodules. They should never be squeezed as it could cause serious damage and scarring to the skin.
Cysts - These are also a more severe form of acne very similar to nodules, except they are also pus-filled. Like nodules, they may or may not last for some time. And also like nodules, they are best left alone or treated by a dermatologist. Squeezing these pimples may result in more infection or scarring.
Acne Rosacea
This form of acne is often mistaken for acne vulgaris, and they can both cause whiteheads. The rosacea variety, however, isn't likely to cause blackheads. Most common in women, when this condition affects men it is usually more serious. It normally only affects the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin. In severe cases, it can result in extra tissue growth, causing a different texture to the skin.
More Severe Forms of Acne
Whenever you think you may be suffering from a severe skin condition, it's important to see a dermatologist or other health professional. Sever acne may be characterized by severe lesions, nodules, sores and other very apparent symptoms. Some of these conditions come and go quickly, while others can be chronic conditions. The rule is that if you're concerned, see a health professional immediately.
Acne Vulgaris
Though we often use the word "vulgar" to mean "offensive," I wouldn't worry about it's use in the name here. The original meaning of the word is "common." So you may have guessed that this is the commonest form of acne. It can be broken down into these more specific signs.
Whiteheads - Caused by completely blocked pores, these white bumps are usually filled with fluid (e.g. pus) that results from the blockage. These pimples can be popped with a minimum of scarring, and if kept clean aren't likely to immediately recur, or you can allow them to naturally heal.
Blackheads - Blackheads are partially blocked pores. They are longer-lasting than whiteheads, which will often disappear on their own. Contrary to popular belief, the black color comes from the skin's reaction to oxygen and not dirt.
Papules - These pimples show up as red, sensitive bumps. They can be a bit sore, and one may be tempted to squeeze them to get rid of them faster. It's not likely to help, though, and they should be allowed to just fade away. Too much squeezing can result in scarring.
Pustules - These are also red, tender growths on the skin, but they will have a white or yellow head containing some pus. These zits can be drained by squeezing, which will help the skin return to normal faster.
Nodules - These are large, hard bumps usually just under the surface of the skin. It's a more severe form of acne, so it's fairly uncommon. It may be sore and last for quite some time. Without effective treatment, they may even cause some minor skin complications. Dermatologists may use cortisone to eliminate these nodules. They should never be squeezed as it could cause serious damage and scarring to the skin.
Cysts - These are also a more severe form of acne very similar to nodules, except they are also pus-filled. Like nodules, they may or may not last for some time. And also like nodules, they are best left alone or treated by a dermatologist. Squeezing these pimples may result in more infection or scarring.
Acne Rosacea
This form of acne is often mistaken for acne vulgaris, and they can both cause whiteheads. The rosacea variety, however, isn't likely to cause blackheads. Most common in women, when this condition affects men it is usually more serious. It normally only affects the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin. In severe cases, it can result in extra tissue growth, causing a different texture to the skin.
More Severe Forms of Acne
Whenever you think you may be suffering from a severe skin condition, it's important to see a dermatologist or other health professional. Sever acne may be characterized by severe lesions, nodules, sores and other very apparent symptoms. Some of these conditions come and go quickly, while others can be chronic conditions. The rule is that if you're concerned, see a health professional immediately.
