Overview

Acne is a widespread chronic skin disorder characterized by inflammation that results in pimples and spots. While acne is often associated with the chaotic stages of adolescence, it may strike at any age, affecting many people all over the world. However, not all acne happens to be similar. It is crucial that you precisely identify and distinguish your type of pimple so that you can get rid of them more quickly and potentially prevent them from recurring, as there is no one-size-fits-all cure for imperfections. Acne treatments vary depending on the type of acne. Isn't it vital to know your adversaries well? Acne is the same thing!

There are plenty of reasons why you may be suffering from acne. Acne breakouts can be triggered by temperature and humidity, the use of certain cosmetic products, heredity, stress and anxiety, and hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and menstruation.

There are numerous forms of acne, and knowing which one you have is critical to finding an effective and long-lasting treatment.

The various levels of acne severity

When we think about acne, we usually think of adolescents and the hormonal bodily changes that come with puberty. Acne, in actuality, can take several forms and affect people of all ages. It can even harm infants and young children. If acne-prone skin is only a phase of life tied to hormones for some, it can be a serious hardship for others depending on its severity.

However, not all acne is created equal. It is critical that you accurately identify and distinguish your type of pimple so that you can get rid of it faster and maybe prevent it from returning. Isn't it critical to know your opponents well? The same thing as acne!

During the various stages of acne, a person may develop the following sorts of spots:

• Mild acne is characterized by the development of blackheads and whiteheads. They could have papules and pustules. The overall number of lesions is usually less than 30.
• Moderate acne is characterized by the formation of more papules and pustules, as well as an increased number of blackheads and whiteheads. Typically, the total number of lesions is between 30-125.
• Severe acne is characterized by a high number of big and painful papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts. Acne scarring is another possibility. The total number of lesions is usually greater than 125.

Once you've discovered your skin type, all you have to do is follow your dermatologist’s recommendations for skin care. In all circumstances, exercise proper daily hygiene and fight temptation: don't squeeze a pimple or a blackhead because you might increase the inflammation.

What are the different types of acne?

Acne occurs at all stages of life

Infantile acne (Newborn acne) grows in the first few weeks after birth, as pustular lesions and closed comedones (whiteheads), primarily on the cheeks and forehead, and fades swiftly.

Childhood acne starts between the ages of 3 and 12 months in the form of isolated, more inflammatory papules on the cheeks and often cures on its own.

Adolescent acne typically appears between the ages of 12 and 18, as a result of the body's various hormonal instability throughout this time. It is most commonly found on the face and upper body as blackheads (open comedones) or whiteheads (closed comedones).

Adult acne typically emerges after the age of 25, primarily on the face and shoulders, as microcysts and red patches.

Mild acne can be classified as either retentional or comedonal (clogged pore) acne

It appears during adolescence or adulthood and is distinguished by the presence of open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads). The skin appears oily and glossy, and larger pores are visible. This type of acne is usually transitory and varies according to hormonal swings. In most cases, it leaves few scars.

Mild acne, also known as retentional acne, affects the vast majority of teenagers and young adults, but not exclusively. Pimples and blackheads are uncommon and mostly found on the face. They can arise on occasion, depending on hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy). Fatigue and stress are other frequent variables. It is mainly distinguished by the presence of open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads). Retentional acne is simple to cure with local antiseptic treatment and a healthy lifestyle. There are additional treatments for sebum regulation made specifically for teens.

Not all acne lesions are red and white. Comedonal acne, for example, is not always inflammatory. It creates blackheads and whiteheads primarily on the T zone (forehead, nose, and chin). This is still considered "mild" acne, with irregular scars and post-acne markings.

Whiteheads or closed comedones

When the pore is already blocked, we talk about closed comedones. As a result, the bacteria will build an extra layer on the skin, resulting in a slightly elevated, flesh-colored pimple. These white spots are less apparent, but they can become irritated and uncomfortable. As a result, it is preferable to avoid squeezing them to not face scars and do everything possible to prevent and treat their appearance.

Blackheads or open comedones

Blackheads, as opposed to whiteheads, appear black on the skin's surface. They are characterized as "open comedones." This is due to the fact that the pore's head remains open while the rest of the pore becomes plugged. More specifically, blackheads are caused by germs that block the oil glands. As a result, the pore oxidizes and turns black. These blackheads might get irritated and turn into whiteheads or even pimples. It is highly recommended to not squeeze or remove them because it can result in scarring.

Inflammatory acne

Like comedonal acne, inflammatory acne is caused by the blocking of pores by dead cells. If these cells come into touch with germs, they can cause an infection and, as a result, apparent redness and swelling on the face. This acne will mostly impact your face's T zone. If it is not treated, you risk leaving scars and other pigment areas that will be difficult to remove without going through the peeling or laser operation.

This type of severe acne can be extremely unpleasant in the most severe cases, with nodules merging to produce inflammatory sores. It affects both youngsters and adults. There are two types of Inflammatory acne:

Papules

Papules are little bumps beneath the skin's surface that are smaller than 1 centimeter (cm) in diameter. The papules will appear firm, tender, and elevated. The skin around a papule is usually irritated as well. Thus, papules are considered painful, inflammatory red pimples on the skin. They may heal or turn into pustules. Papules, unlike whiteheads, do not have a visible center, and their pores are not enlarged.

Pustules (pimples)

Pustules are bigger, tender bumps with a definite circular center that is filled with whitish or yellowish pus. On light skin, the area around a pustule appears red or pink, but on darker skin, it appears deep brown or black. Pustules are pus-filled pimples that are yellow, inflammatory, and painful. The pus is usually a mixture of immune cells and bacterial cells that have gathered in the closed orifice.

Pustules resemble larger, more inflammatory whiteheads.

Acne with cysts

This is the most serious type of acne. Cystic acne is the most painful and troublesome type of acne. It generates huge pimples that hurt a lot and escalate the infection. This sort of acne can only be treated by an expert. In reaction to profound inflammation, red spots might convert or coexist with painful nodules that can develop into cysts, which can become infectious. Nodules are big, inflammatory red pimples that can develop into abscesses and are most commonly found on the shoulders and back. In addition to the existing lesions, they are caused by injury to a deeper area of tissue in your body. As a result, cystic acne is highly unpleasant and carries a significant risk of scarring. It, like inflammatory acne, must be treated by a healthcare expert.

The most specific kinds of acne

Aside from these types of acne and their various forms of pimples, there are other types of acne that are caused by external sources.

Acne inversa

This type of acne is a dangerous condition that affects the entire defensive system of the body. It appears in the intimate area and under huge folds of skin. Acne inversa, also known as hidradenitis suppurativa, is not totally curable and may necessitate surgery in some cases. The causes are not completely examined here, but nicotine consumption and obesity are believed, in addition to hereditary and hormonal factors.

Contact Acne (contact dermatitis)

This type of acne is distinguished by the development of blackheads on certain areas of the skin that have been in contact with a specific substance: chlorine, iodine, detergents, latex, perfumes, or chemicals in cosmetics and skin care products, and jewelry can be among the causes.

Cosmetic Acne

Cosmetic acne is a subtype of contact acne induced by comedogenic chemicals present in skincare and cosmetics. They clog the pores. When the acne-causing product is no longer utilized, the acne symptoms normally go away immediately. This could be mild acne that can be handled without medication.

Acne Caused by Medications

It is also known as anabolic acne and can be caused by a range of medications and supplements. It can also be caused by using cortisone to treat chronic conditions.

Mallorca Acne

Because it arises after exposure to UV rays, this type of acne is known as Mallorca acne. It is a hypersensitive reaction of the skin to light, this kind should be classified as a light disease rather than a skin disease. The most common symptoms are itchy red spots that go away on their own after a few days without more sun exposure.

Fungal acne

This skin irritation is also known as fungal acne, and it does not fall under the category of acne. Pimples resemble typical pimples in appearance, itch fiercely, and are amplified by factors such as sweat, increased humidity, and generally high skin temperature.

Main causes of acne

Acne can be hereditary or environmental (stress, weariness, tobacco, pollution, food, and so on).

Dead skin cells gather on the skin and deposit in follicles, which are where hairs grow out of microscopic pores on the skin's surface. These cells normally climb to the surface of the holes and subsequently fall away from the skin. Sebaceous glands linked to the follicles create an oil called sebum, which helps keep the skin from drying up. Excess sebum can cause dead cells to cling together, generating a combination that becomes trapped in the follicular entrance.

Acne develops when a pore becomes clogged with dead skin cells, natural body oils, and bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes. These bacteria increase irritation and the production of acne blemishes when they infiltrate and infect clogged pores. The resultant inflammation can destroy the follicle's integrity, allowing germs, fatty acids, and lipids to enter the surrounding skin. This can result in more severe acne, such as cystic and nodular acne, as well as larger inflammation and clusters of acne lesions.

Severe acne must be treated properly, especially given the increased risk of scarring produced by major skin lesions. If you have severe acne, apply makeup designed for acne-prone skin and breathable cosmetic items to avoid exacerbating the condition.

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Adults and young children, contrary to popular opinion, can be affected in the same way as adolescents are. To get rid of it, you must first determine the type of acne you have in order to execute a truly successful focused treatment. Because it is impossible to successfully treat acne before it has been detected. The stage of diagnosis is critical. Consult with a dermatologist in order to do this because they will be able to enlighten you and explain your type of acne the best.

If you are considering having your acne treatment in Seoul by the best dermatologist, don't hesitate to book your consultation through Docfinderkorea!