We talk a lot about acne, and for good reason – it’s a common skincare concern that affects people from teens to adults. Not only can acne leave lasting physical scars, but it can also impact self-esteem and confidence. Understanding the different types of acne is essential to finding the right treatment. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about acne, from the various types to effective treatments that can help you regain control over your skin.
Acne occurs when the pores on your skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This creates an ideal environment for breakouts. Several factors can provoke acne flare-ups, including hormonal changes, genetics, environmental influences, and diet. Knowing what triggers your acne can help you make informed decisions about how to treat it and prevent future breakouts. Understanding the root cause of your acne is the key to achieving clearer skin!
Acne can appear in different forms, and it’s essential to understand what type of acne you have so you can treat it effectively. Here are the most common types of acne:
This type of acne is often the most common and least severe. Mild or non-inflammatory acne presents as blackheads and whiteheads, which are surface-level blemishes that don’t cause redness, swelling, or tenderness in the skin. They occur when the pores are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. While this type of acne is not painful, it can still lead to frustration, especially if the clogged pores become more noticeable.
Inflammatory acne occurs when bacteria multiply inside a clogged pore, causing painful symptoms such as swelling, redness, and tenderness. This type of acne can be more difficult to treat and can result in scarring if not addressed properly. Below are the different types of inflammatory acne:
Papules are small, raised, solid bumps that are often red and sensitive. They form when clogged pores become inflamed, but they don’t develop pus. They can be caused by irritants like harsh exfoliation, heavy makeup, or certain fragrances. Papules are typically not painful, but they can leave marks on the skin.
Pustules are inflamed acne lesions that have a yellow or white pus-filled center. They often occur in areas of the skin that are naturally oilier, like the forehead, chin, and nose. These acne lesions are more likely to be painful and can lead to scarring if squeezed or not treated properly. Pustules are typically associated with more severe acne that involves a bacterial infection.
Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne and occurs when a pore becomes deeply clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The result is a large, painful, swollen bump beneath the skin’s surface. Cysts are often tender and can lead to long-lasting scars. Cystic acne is more common in individuals with hormonal imbalances and is frequently seen in both teens and adults. This type of acne requires specialized treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent scarring.
Treating acne involves a combination of maintaining proper hygiene, using the right skincare products, and seeking professional treatments when needed. Here are some tips to help you prevent and treat acne:
If at-home skincare alone isn’t enough to manage your acne, consider professional treatments that can address your concerns more effectively. Below are some of the top treatments to combat acne:
Diamond Glow is a popular hydradermabrasion treatment designed to combat acne. This advanced procedure gently removes dead skin cells and buildup while simultaneously infusing treatment serums into the skin. It helps to improve the texture of the skin, reduce acne, and promote a smoother, glowing complexion. For optimal results, we recommend getting this treatment every two to four weeks to keep acne under control.
Medi-Aesthetic peels are highly effective in improving the texture and tone of acne-prone skin. These peels are customized to suit your skin’s specific needs, using active ingredients to deep-clean clogged pores and regulate oil production. These treatments provide significant improvements in acne and can help reduce the appearance of dark spots or scars. Our experts recommend getting a peel every two to four weeks for best results.
LED Blue Light Therapy is a non-invasive and painless treatment that targets inflammatory acne. The blue light penetrates the skin to kill acne-causing bacteria, reducing swelling and redness. This therapy can be performed in a short session during your lunch break, making it an excellent choice for those with a busy schedule. It’s highly effective for managing acne and preventing future breakouts.
Micro-needling is an excellent option for reducing acne scars. The treatment involves tiny needles that create micro-channels in the skin, allowing active ingredients to penetrate deeper layers of the skin. When combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or skin-repairing serums, micro-needling can supercharge your acne treatment. It helps promote skin healing and reduce scarring, leaving your skin smoother and more even-toned.
Don’t let acne hold you back! Take charge of your skin and start your journey to clearer skin today. Our experienced dermal experts offer complimentary consultations where you can discuss your acne concerns and explore the best treatment options for your skin. Whether you need guidance on over-the-counter products or require advanced medi-aesthetic treatments, we are here to help you achieve the skin you’ve always wanted.
Book your consultation today and take the first step towards healthier, clearer skin!