While many people of varying ages deal with acne issues, it's important to note that not all acne is identical. There are a few different types or stages of acne, plus varying treatments that will often depend on which type you're dealing with.
At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, we're proud to offer acne specialists who treat acne of various kinds, plus offer acne scar removal and various additional services such as teen acne treatment and more. Here's a basic rundown of the different types of acne, both in terms of their medical terminology and the ways they're more commonly referenced, plus how treatments may vary depending on the type and circumstance.
Referring to specific "comedones" (the plural of "comedo"), this is the medical term for a hair follicle that has become plugged up by oil, dead skin cells and other debris. Comedonal acne is often broken into two categories: open and closed comedones, commonly referred to as blackheads and whiteheads respectively.
Treatment for comedonal acne usually involves topical treatments such as retinoids, which help unclog pores and promote cellular turnover. In some cases, chemical peels or extractions may also be recommended by an acne specialist.
This is one of the most common types of acne and can be seen in people of all ages. However, it is most commonly associated with teenagers going through puberty due to hormonal changes causing increased oil production.
When comedones become inflamed, they can turn into papules and pustules. Papules are small, raised bumps on the skin that are typically red and tender to the touch. Pustules, on the other hand, have a white or yellow center surrounded by redness and can often be filled with pus.
These types of acne may require more aggressive treatment methods such as topical or oral antibiotics to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may also be used for particularly severe pustules.
Another common type of acne, hormonal acne is often caused by an imbalance in hormones such as androgen. This type of acne can occur at any age but is most commonly associated with women during their menstrual cycles or pregnant women due to changes in hormone levels.
Treatment for hormonal acne may involve oral contraceptives, spironolactone (a medication that blocks androgens), or topical treatments such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide. Depending on the severity, an acne specialist may also recommend lifestyle changes such as stress management and diet adjustments.
One of the more severe types of acne, cystic acne occurs when a pore becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to inflammation and infection. This can result in painful, large bumps underneath the skin that can take weeks or even months to fully heal.
Treatment for cystic acne may involve oral medications such as antibiotics or isotretinoin (Accutane or alternatives). In some cases, cortisone injections or drainage may be recommended by an acne specialist.
Sometimes mistaken for papules or pustules, nodules are larger, more solid bumps under the skin that can be quite painful. They occur when clogged pores become even more inflamed, causing a buildup of bacteria and dead skin cells.
Treatment for nodular acne may involve a combination of oral medications and intralesional steroid injections. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding certain foods or reducing stress levels, may also be recommended by an acne specialist.
While each of these types of acne varies somewhat in terms of their appearance and treatment options, they are also often categorized by their severity. Mild acne typically involves just a few comedones and may only require topical treatments, while moderate acne may involve a combination of oral and topical medications.
Severe acne, on the other hand, may include multiple types of acne (such as cystic or nodular) and can often be difficult to treat without professional help from an acne specialist. In some cases, combination therapy or long-term maintenance plans may be necessary to keep severe acne under control.
No matter what type of acne you're dealing with, it's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It's always best to consult with an acne specialist who can assess your individual situation and recommend the most effective treatment plan for you.
At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, we understand that everyone's skin is unique and we're dedicated to helping each of our clients achieve their clear skin goals at our skin care clinic. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards healthier, clearer skin in SLC or any nearby part of Utah!
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