Acne is the most common problem that people face when they are young. This skin condition primarily affects the face. It can also lead to plugged hair follicles caused by dead cells and oily patches.

Sometimes, it may become severe and can cause red, tender, and large bumps on the skin. This problem occurs when a pimple gets enlarged and filled with pus or pus-like material. Treatment options are available according to the different types of acne.

Types of acne
Acne is of varied types. Based on its appearance, it is classified into two types — inflammatory and non-inflammatory. Moreover, acne can occur in various forms, shapes, and sizes, based on which they are classified into sub-types.
Acne occurs due to clogged pores caused by numerous factors like ingrown hair, dead skin cells, hormones, bacteria, and excessive production of sebum or oil. The different sub-types of acne are cysts, nodules, pustules, papules, whiteheads, and blackheads.

Non-inflammatory acne
Only whiteheads and blackheads are a part of this category. Here is a brief description of them:

• Whiteheads
  This type of acne forms due to the presence of dead skin cells and sebum which lead to clogged pores. In this case, the top of the pores get closed, and small bumps protrude from the skin’s surface. To cure whiteheads, one can use topical retinoids and skin care products which have salicylic acid for the best results.
• Blackheads
  Blackheads also form due to dead skin cells and sebum. The formation process is quite similar to that of whiteheads. But the only difference is that the top of the pores is not closed. Due to this, these bumps appear black in color.

Inflammatory acne
The remaining four sub-types of acne are a part of this category. Read on to know more about them.

• Cysts
  It is the result of a combination of dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria. These formations penetrate deep into the skin. The white and red large bumps are quite painful and could lead to severe skin infection without timely treatment.
• Nodules
  Nodules are swollen and clogged pores associated with skin irritation. Skin irritation can increase the growth of nodules, and one cannot treat this condition at home. As this sub-type of acne is the result of excessive oil in the oil glands, one can opt for the consumption of vitamin A supplements for the best results.
  Dermatologists may prescribe a person to undergo a 6-month course of medications. Therefore, during these six months, one may have to consume oral medication like isotretinoin. This treatment can help protect the skin from further infections.
• Pustules
  This sub-type of acne forms when the pores’ walls break down. It may lead to the formation of red, large, and swollen bumps filled with pus. It may have a white or yellow head on its top.
• Papules
  It is caused by severe inflammation of the skin. As a result of the inflammation, the skin gets clogged and hard pores develop.

Thus, whenever one develops acne, they must consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.