There are several types of acne and knowing which you have is an important step in clearing your skin. You may have a mix of all, some, or just one. Keep reading to determine which types you have, from there we can help you determine the best treatment options for you.
Blackheads appear as dark spots caused by pores clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Blackheads are dark in appearance because they are exposed to oxygen. Blackheads typically aren't red, inflamed, or painful.
Whiteheads appear as small or medium bumps and usually have a white or yellow-ish top. Whiteheads occur when a pore becomes clogged with a mix of oil and dead skin cells. The pore then gets covered by a layer of skin and develops pus within it. Similar to blackheads, you will not experience swelling and redness with these pimples.
Papules are comedones that become inflamed, forming small red or pink bumps on the skin. This type of pimple may be sensitive to the touch. Picking or squeezing can make the inflammation worse and may lead to scarring.
Pustules are another kind of inflamed pimple. They resemble a whitehead with a red ring around the bump. The bump is typically filled with white or yellow pus. It's important to avoid picking or squeezing pustules, as usually makes them worse and can lead to scarring.
Cysts are large, pus-filled lesions that look similar to boils. Like nodules, cysts can be painful and should never be popped.
Nodules are large, inflamed bumps that feel firm to the touch. They develop deep within the skin and are often very painful. Nodules also typically never form a "head" so they can take a very long time to go away.
As a next step, review the best treatment options for your type of acne.
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