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The Different Classifications of Acne Explained

By: Chris Channing When it comes to acne, there is a lot of information to take in. Many teens and young adults simply skip over this information and instead head straight for any product that promises to help with their affliction. But educating one's self on acne is extremely important if an acne fighting routine is to be successfully implemented.

Types Of Acne

One of the more common types of acne, the blackhead, is something just about everyone has experienced. The black dot that forms is actually not dirt, but rather a reaction to the skin and oxygen as the pore is partially blocked. Since the pore is only partially blocked, the pore will still excrement sebum and bacteria. The blackhead usually lasts longer than a whitehead would in the same situation.

The whitehead is similar to the blackhead, except that it completely blocks the pore and contains a white colored head. Bacteria and sebum are completely trapped under the skin in this case, which makes the appearance of a white tip. Whiteheads generally don't last as long as blackheads, and are usually more unsightly in appearance.

Next we have papules, which are inflammations on the skin that contain no "heads." Instead, these lesions only appear as a red mark that can often be large in size. It is important to not squeeze papules, as it will do no good. In fact, squeezing a papule often results in scarring or further inflammation that takes longer to alleviate had it not been tampered with.

Pustules share qualities of both whiteheads and papules. Pustules will have the white head of a whitehead and also carry the red inflammation and swelling that papules have. Like papules, pustules can easily result in scarring and infection if they are tampered with. Because of this, it is recommended that you do not squeeze or drain pustules unless absolutely necessary.

How To Handle The Different Types Of Acne

Blackheads and whiteheads are generally small enough to avoid any contact with. In fact, acne sufferers often created a worse case scenario when tampering with them by turning them into pustules or papules. To avoid the swelling and inflammation that comes with the tampering of these types of acne, try to ignore them as much as possible.

Papules and pustules are a different story, as they can often be on the face for a couple of weeks if care is not taken. Papules should never be tampered with. Pustules, like whiteheads, can often be unsightly and require more immediate action.

When trying to cure one's self of a whitehead or pustule, be sure to do so in a very clean manner. Do not force the acne to excrement the white or yellow middle- and be sure to take care if this procedure must take place. Knowing these basic four types of acne and how to get rid of them will better arm you with knowledge in which to fight one's acne with- and have clearer skin as a result.