Must-Know Types & Causes Of Acne (US)

All of us are accustomed to the occasional pimples that grace us right before an important event. For some, this cycle started with puberty and ended there, while for others, it never stopped. We are left looking for the best products for acne. 

The occasional pimple is tolerable, but you know what is not? The chronic and infuriating issue of acne! To tackle this chronic issue, you need to know more about its causes, types, and treatment. You might know that there are many causes and types of acne but don't worry, we will cover them all to help you better. 

Know thy enemy; this statement holds true as it is crucial to know all about the problem you face. This is why before we move forward with the causes, treatment, and the best products for acne, let's look at its various types. 

What Are The 6 Types Of Acne?

All acne is not the same; they differ from each other in many aspects, such as the cause of acne, treatment for acne, appearance, effects on the skin, and many more similar factors. Knowing these various types of acne and their effect is essential to cure them.

1. Whiteheads

   The cause of acne is clogged pores due to too much bacteria, oil, or skin cell production. Whiteheads are also induced in a similar way; that's why they are called closed comedones. When both the length of the pore and its head are closed, it creates a white bump. Whiteheads, like all acne, should not be popped as it might lead to scarring. This type of non-inflammatory acne can be easily treated with sulfur, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and even retinol. They effectively get rid of oil, grime, dead skin cells, etc.

2. Blackheads

   Blackheads are also called open comedones as the entire length of the pore is clogged, but the head is open. Unlike whiteheads, they appear in black and can be squeezed in order to be cleaned. However, squeezing increases the risk of acne scarring. Treatment for acne can differ, though it is the same in the case of whiteheads and blackheads. Our advice would be to avoid the usage of pore strips or other ways of pulling out the blackheads as it does more harm than benefit. Use natural products for acne as they provide lasting results.

1. Papules

   Remember those tiny red bumps on your skin that look like amateur pimples? Well, those are papules! They are formed by oil or excess skin cells due to the blockage of pores. A bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes or C. acnes is also responsible. When the content of this blacked pore spills out, the bacteria escape into the surrounding skin tissue, creating an inflamed lesion. Note that papules do not contain pus, and the best products for acne will contain benzoyl peroxide, retinoid, or antibiotics.

2. Pustules

   Pustules are everyone's worst nightmare; small bulging bumps with a white center and not to forget the red, inflamed skin around them. They are commonly found in clusters on your chest, face, or back. They are pretty similar to papules, except for the additional yellowish pus. The cause of this acne varies from hormonal changes to blocked and infected pores. The treatment for acne is similar to papules, especially the antibiotics to eradicate bacteria-filled pus. A friendly reminder: do not try to pop them as it might lead the bacteria to spread.

3. Nodules

   Infection by C. acne bacteria deep within the pore is usually the cause of this acne. They are painful and consist of red or flesh-colored bumps deep under the skin. Treatment for nodular acne is quite tricky as most medicine works on the skin's surface rather than under the skin. Since over-the-counter treatment might not work effectively, visit a dermatologist for effective solutions. They are likely to prescribe strength benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, antibiotics, or retinoids. Other options include draining the nodules by hand or laser or a chemical peel if the medicine doesn't work.

4. Cysts

   Cystic acne results from a deep-seated infection within the skin and is the scariest and the most severe form of acne. They are red, large, inflamed, painful, and pus-filled. They are softer than nodular acne. This is because they are filled with pus and can often burst, infecting the surrounding area. There is no doubt that the treatment for cystic acne is not easy; however, a dermatologist greatly helps to navigate this with ease. Medications like isotretinoin, antibiotics, topical retinoids, etc., are often helpful. Now that you know the types, it is only natural to want to know the causes of acne. You must already know that there is no single cause of acne as it could result from multiple different reasons. Since we can't predict the cause, we thought we might help you figure it out.

So keep reading and might just find it out!

What Are The Different Causes Of Acne?

• Genes

If your parents have acne-prone skin, then there is a huge chance that you will have it as well. This is because few genetic mutations make you more vulnerable to an acne-prone skin type.  

• Hormone

It is a known fact that changing hormones is a major cause of acne. It is because changes in hormone levels cause excess sebum production leading to pore blockage and acne. 

• Stress

Stress is a huge contributor to many physical and psychological issues, including fluctuating hormones. Stress pushes the glands to produce more hormones like adrenaline and testosterone, creating a hormone spike in your body. This sudden spike is a cause of acne.

• Diet

Your diet is the key to good skin health. However, if you do not take a proper and healthy diet, it is also visible on your skin. This is why it is advisable to consume dairy, chocolate, oily food, and other sugary desserts, as they can cause frequent breakouts.

 Sleep

Your skin goes through a regeneration process during sleep, allowing it to shed dead skin cells and restore the skin's barrier. When you deprive your skin of this process, it can increase stress hormones and increase the number of breakouts.

Our Favorite!

Our Acne Clarifying Serum is a natural and clean product that helps soak excess oil and fight acne-causing bacteria. It is powered by a potent blend of Ayurveda and science that promises clear and smooth skin. Enriched with salicylic Acid, Cinnamon, Thyme, and Sage Leaf, this Anti-Acne serum offers:

• Overall Improvement in skin texture
• Reduces skin inflammation and acne marks.
• Balances oil production, sebum level, and open pores.
• Prevents acne marks and blemishes.
• Restores skin's elasticity.

To sum it up

Now you know the cause, types, treatment, and skincare products to use, all that is left is action from your end. So do not wait for the procrastination to wear. Take action today and get clear, smooth, and healthy skin.