Types of Acne
There are several types of acne. You've probably heard of blackheads and whiteheads. Less common and more severe types of acne include nodules and cysts, which can be painful.
Following are the types of acne:
Comedones: Pores plugged by oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. There are two types of comedones:
- Blackheads: Plugged pores that are open at the surface of the skin and look black in color.
- Whiteheads: Plugged pores that are closed or have a very narrow surface and look white or skin-colored.
- Papules: Small, solid bumps above the surface of the skin. A group of papules is sometimes small and cannot be seen but
may feel like sandpaper.
- Pustules: Larger, often yellowish pimples that contain pus that is made up of dead skin cells, bacteria and white blood cells.
- Nodules or cysts: Larger bumps that extend deeper into the skin than other acne. Nodules are solid, whereas cysts contain pus but are larger and more inflamed than pustules. Nodules and cysts are the most severe and painful types of acne and are difficult to treat. This type of acne calls for a visit to the dermatologist.
When acne heals, it can leave behind red or dark marks called macules that usually fade after a few days or weeks. Some acne, especially nodules and cysts, can leave scars, either raised bumps or dents in the skin.
Next: Treating Acne
Photo references:
Blackheads, Whiteheads: These photos were previously published in Dermatology DDxDeck, Vol 1, Pg 30. Habif T, Campbell J, Chapman M et al. “Comedone acne.” Copyright Elsevier (2006).
Papules, Pustules, and Nodules: Photos used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology
National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides.
Cysts: This photo was previously published in Dermatology DDxDeck, Vol 1, Pg 31. Habif T, Campbell J, Chapman M et al. “Pustular acne.” Copyright Elsevier (2006).
