Acne is a common skin condition that can impact your confidence and self-esteem. Although the term "acne" is often used broadly to describe all types of skin bumps, there are actually different types of acne that require different treatments. In this guide, we will help you identify the type of acne you have and provide tips on how to treat it effectively for a clear, fresh, and bright complexion.
Identifying Your Type of Acne
Whiteheads:
These small, round bumps develop underneath the skin's surface and have a white or yellowish appearance. They occur when dead skin cells and oil block hair follicles. Whiteheads can be caused by factors such as oily skin, hormonal changes, diet, puberty, and the use of certain makeup and skincare products.
Blackheads:
These bumps are open at the surface and filled with excess oil and dead skin cells. They are not covered by skin and appear as dark spots due to exposure to air. Blackheads can be caused by factors such as oily skin, hormonal changes, diet, skincare products, and some medications.
Papules:
These are small, red or pink bumps on the skin's surface that are inflamed comedones. Papules may be sensitive to the touch and picking or squeezing can make the inflammation worse, possibly causing scarring. They usually indicate moderate or severe acne.
Pustules:
These are similar to whiteheads but have a red ring around the bump and contain white or yellow pus. Picking or squeezing pustules can cause scarring or dark spots.
Nodules:
These large, inflamed bumps occur deep within the skin and are often quite painful. They develop when the walls of a pore break down, and as a result, bacteria and oil move deeper into the skin, affecting other pores. Nodules often cause scarring and require medical attention.
Cysts:
This is the most severe form of acne and occurs as a result of a severe inflammatory reaction in your pores. It triggers boil-like, fluid-filled nodules deep under the skin. Cysts are commonly seen in menstruating women, as changing levels of estrogen act at the level of the follicle that cause cysts to form deep under the skin.
Treating Your Acne
If you have mild to moderate acne, there are several over-the-counter products, skincare routines, and self-care treatments that you can use to reduce your acne. However, more severe types of acne require medical attention. If your acne is persistent and doesn't clear up over time, we suggest making an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist so they can assess the situation.
When treating acne, it's important to use products containing acne-fighting ingredients such as Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Retinoids (Retinol) that are great at preventing clogged pores. Skintique Retail's line of acne products includes blemish-busting serums, resurfacing cleansers, and lightweight moisturizers that can help treat your acne effectively.
Conclusion
Acne is a common skin condition that can affect your confidence and self-esteem. However, identifying the type of acne you have is the first step towards effective treatment. If you have mild to moderate acne, try using over-the-counter products and skincare routines that contain acne-fighting ingredients. However, more severe types of acne require medical attention. Want to know more about what products can help? Skintique Retail's line of acne products can help you treat your acne effectively so book an online appointment and talk to one of our specialist skin therapists today and start your journey to clearer skin.