Are There Different Types of Acne?

Yes. Acne varies from person to person both in type and severity. It can range from the occasional whitehead or mild outbreak of pink bumps to very large and painful cysts that can be difficult to treat and that may cause scarring.

Two Basic Groups

All acne blemishes, regardless of severity, may be divided into two basic groups, non-inflammatory and inflammatory.

Non-inflammatory

Non-inflammatory acne consists of two types of comedones, or blocked pores.

Whiteheads - plugged follicles below the surface of the skin

Blackheads - enlarged plugs that appear dark in color and have pushed through the skin's surface

Inflammatory

Inflammatory acne consists of comedones that have become inflamed as a result of bacteria in the clogged follicles.

Papules - firm, pink bumps

Pustules - small round bumps with a red base and yellowish or white center

Nodules - very large and painful lumps lodged deep within the skin that may cause scarring

Cysts - deep, painful, pus-filled lesions likely to cause scarring

Where do People get Acne?