Types of Acne
It is extremely essential that one knows the specific types of acne there are, because when you know the types you would be able to determine the specific one you have and thus be able to tailor the appropriate treatment.
Here are 5 most common types of acne, and the common names that we refer to them by.
1. Acne Vulgaris
This is categorized as perhaps the most common type of acne and it is easily identifiable. Acne Vulgaris most often times come with spots like whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules as well as very painful nodules. This type can usually be treated at home with ointments, natural treatments or typical over the counter acne products targeted to your skin type. Acne vulgaris affects the areas of skin with the densest population of sebaceous follicles; these areas include the face, the upper part of the chest, and the back.
2. Acne Rosacea
Acne Rosacea is characterized by rashes on the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose, redness and flushing, red nose, spider-like blood vessels on the face, acne like skin sore that may ooze or crust, and burning or stinging feeling on the face. Acne rosacea like other forms of acne leaves spots on the skin and these spots appear similar to those caused by acne vulgaris.
Sufferers end up with pimples, bumps and blemishes, but usually no black or white heads. This type of acne affects mainly women and those around age 30 to 50 years old. Because it is a little more extreme than the vulgaris strain, this acne type requires more powerful treatments, which may or may require a doctor’s prescription. What is important in treating Acne Rosacea like other types of acne is acquiring a treatment targeted for this condition.
3. Acne Conglobata
This type of acne is described as an uncommon and unusually severe type frequently found in males. It is characterized by a number of large lesions interconnected across the face. There are also widespread blackheads found with this type of acne. Acne Conglobata is known to cause severe skin damage and scarring over time. Treatment with steroids are said to be effective in treatment, however this must be prescribed by a medical personnel.
4. Acne Fulminans
A severe type of acne that mainly affects young men it usually begins at the age of puberty. This condition is believed to be an immunological problem in which elevated level of testosterone causes a rise in sebum and Propionibacterium acnes, A bacteria that is linked to acne and skin problems. Acne Fulminans is different from other forms of acne in that it usually begins with fever, pain and aching and inflamed joints, and symptoms progress to swelling of lymph nodes. Some persons experience a complete loss of appetite. Acne Fulminans is so severe that treatment may require hospitalization, but in less severe cases steroids are used. Here again acne treatment must be authorized by a medical practitioner.
5. Pyoderma Faciale
A rare acne-like skin condition, usually only affects women between 20 and 40 years of age. Characterized by large painful nodules, pustules and acne sores that may form scars if left untreated. Comes on abruptly like the fulminans strain in men, but is confined to the face and doesn’t usually last for longer than a year.