Types of acne

Acne is a complex dermatological problem that can take various forms and affect not only the appearance of the skin but also the emotional well-being of those affected by it. The different forms of acne are classified based on their causes and symptoms.

• The most common type is acne vulgaris, characterized by blackheads, papules, and pustules.
• After the age of 25, adult acne (acne tarda) may occur, often associated with hormones or stress.
• Hormonal acne is linked to changes in sex hormone levels and includes types such as androgenic or estrogenic acne.
• Another variant is rosacea (acne rosacea), which manifests as facial redness and pimple-like breakouts.

Among the inflammatory types of acne, there are distinctions like papular or cystic acne, while the non-inflammatory type is mainly characterized by the presence of blackheads. Severe forms such as pustular acne or conglobate acne require specialized dermatological care.

There are also other variations of acne, such as cosmetic or drug-induced acne, caused by improper cosmetics or medications. Changes can then appear not only on the face but also on the back or chest, necessitating an analysis of causative factors and adaptation of skincare and treatment to the specific case.
Due to the variety of acne types, individual diagnosis and therapy are essential. It is advisable to consult with a specialist.

There are several specific forms of acne that differ in symptoms and causes. The most common is acne vulgaris, characterized by the presence of blackheads, papules, and pustules. On the other hand, papulopustular acne is a combination of papules and pustules.

• Blackhead acne can be identified by the presence of blackheads.
• Cystic acne is characterized by painful cysts under the skin.
• Hormonal acne is associated with changes in the levels of sex hormones.
• Rosacea manifests as redness on the face and pimple-like eruptions.

Diagnosing the type of acne is essential for effective treatment. Each type requires individually tailored therapy that takes into account the patient's needs.

Acne vulgaris is the most common form of acne, affecting primarily adolescents during puberty. Up to 80% of teenagers experience skin changes such as blackheads, papules, and pustules. These skin changes most often appear on the face, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, cheeks), but can also occur on the chest and back. The cause of acne vulgaris is the overproduction of sebum and the clogging of hair follicles with dead skin cells. In more severe cases, this condition can lead to the formation of cysts.

This type of acne is characterized by specific skin changes, such as blackheads or pustules, and like other forms, it requires an individualized therapeutic approach. It is crucial to consult a dermatologist to develop an effective treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs.

Adult acne typically occurs after the age of 25 and differs from teenage acne. Its main causes include: - Hormonal imbalances, - Stress, - Inadequate skin care. Skin changes often appear on the lower part of the face, neck, chest, and back. Characteristic features include subcutaneous bumps that differ from regular pimples or blackheads.

Hormonal acne, closely related to changes in levels of sex hormones, mainly affects adults. In women, it often occurs due to hormonal fluctuations that can occur during puberty, after discontinuing birth control pills, or during menopause. Symptoms are typically visible on the face, but can also include the chest and back.

Understanding the mechanisms of hormonal acne is key to effective treatment. Therapy needs to be tailored to the individual needs of the patient and requires a dermatological consultation. This allows for the development of a treatment plan that considers the specific needs of the skin.

One type of hormonal acne is androgenic acne. It is caused by excess production of androgens, leading to increased sebum production and clogging of hair follicles. It often affects women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and mainly appears on the lower part of the face and jawline.

Treating this type of acne requires collaboration between a dermatologist and an endocrinologist. It is important to monitor hormone levels and appropriately use topical or oral preparations, such as anti-androgenic medications.

Another type of hormonal acne is estrogenic acne, associated with changes in estrogen levels in the body. Although less common than its androgenic counterpart, it can occur in women using hormonal contraception or going through menopause.

Similar to other forms of the disease, the effectiveness of therapy depends on a precise diagnosis and individually tailored therapeutic approach. Consultation with specialists will help determine the best treatment methods, which may include pharmacotherapy as well as lifestyle or diet changes.

Androgenic acne is a type of hormonal acne that is associated with excessive activity of androgens, such as testosterone. These hormones lead to increased sebum production by the sebaceous glands, which can result in clogged hair follicles and the appearance of skin lesions. It most commonly occurs on the lower part of the face and along the jawline. It particularly affects women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Effective treatment requires collaboration between specialists: a dermatologist and an endocrinologist, as well as monitoring of hormone levels.

Estrogenic acne is a specific type of hormonal acne that occurs with fluctuations in estrogen levels. In such situations, there is an excessive production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. This problem often affects women using hormonal contraception or going through menopause. Skin changes typically appear on the face, back, and chest.

Effective treatment for this type of acne requires a precise diagnosis and individually tailored therapy. Consultation with a dermatologist or endocrinologist is crucial for selecting the best treatment methods. Therapy may include medications as well as lifestyle or dietary changes, which can help effectively control skin changes.

Rosacea usually appears in individuals over 30 years of age and more commonly affects women with fair skin. It is characterized by redness of the face and acne-like breakouts. This problem arises from vascular disorders and inflammatory reactions involving the blood vessels of the skin. In contrast to other forms of acne, rosacea is not a result of excess sebum or clogged pores, but rather abnormal functioning of the blood vessels, leading to prolonged inflammatory conditions and redness.

Inflammatory acne is associated with inflammatory skin conditions, distinguishing it from other types. There are several variations of it:

• papular,
• papulopustular,
• pustular,
• cystic.

Each of them differs in the severity of symptoms and the depth of skin changes. In the case of papular acne, small, red nodules appear on the skin, while pustular acne is characterized by more visible pustules. Papulopustular acne combines the features of both types - both nodules and pustules are present. The most difficult form to treat is cystic acne, which causes the formation of deep, painful cysts that can lead to scarring after healing.

Nodulocystic acne is an inflammatory form of acne that combines the presence of nodules and cysts. Initially, small red lesions appear on the skin. As the inflammatory state progresses, they transform into cysts containing pus. This type of acne most commonly occurs on the face and other areas of the body rich in sebaceous glands.

Treating this type of acne requires personalized dermatological therapy. A dermatologist may recommend the use of topical antibiotics or anti-inflammatory agents to help alleviate symptoms and minimize the risk of scarring. It is important to regularly consult with a specialist to effectively monitor the course of the disease and adjust the treatment to the patient's needs.

Pustular acne is a form of inflammatory acne characterized by pustules filled with pus. It usually occurs in areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the face, back, or chest. Unlike other types, such as papular or cystic acne, it is easily recognizable by visible skin changes with purulent contents.

Treatment of this form of acne requires care from a dermatologist. Therapy may include:

• topical antibiotics,
• anti-inflammatory agents that relieve symptoms and prevent scarring.

Regular visits to the specialist are crucial for monitoring progress and adjusting treatment to the individual needs of the patient.

Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of this skin condition, characterized by deep, painful cysts filled with fluid. It occurs when pores are heavily clogged and inflamed, often leading to scarring. Treatment requires specialized dermatological care.

Therapy includes the use of:

• Topical medications,
• Oral antibiotics,
• Retinoids.

Regular visits to a dermatologist are essential for monitoring the progress of therapy and adjusting treatment, which helps minimize the risk of scarring and improves the patient's quality of life.

Comedonal acne is a form of non-inflammatory acne that includes two types of comedones: open and closed. Open comedones, commonly known as blackheads, form as a result of oxidation of sebum and dead skin cells in the pores. On the other hand, closed comedones are small, white bumps that do not have contact with the air. Although this type of acne is often seen in young people, it can also affect adults. This acne most commonly appears on the face, especially in the T-zone consisting of the forehead, nose, and chin, but it can also occur on the back or chest.

Treatment focuses on regular skin cleansing and the use of exfoliating products containing salicylic acid. The key is to cleanse the pores regularly and avoid their re-blocking through proper skincare. It is important to avoid heavy cosmetics that can worsen the issue. Consultation with a dermatologist is crucial to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs, which enhances the effectiveness of treating this condition.

Severe acne encompasses advanced forms of skin lesions that can lead to serious problems such as scarring and discoloration. Among the most severe types are:

• Cystic acne - characterized by deep inflammatory lesions and the formation of abscesses,
• Papulopustular acne - combines papules and cysts,
• Nodular acne - characterized by large clusters of inflammatory lesions,
• Acne conglobata - the most intense form of the disease, with a rapid course.

Treating advanced forms of acne requires a comprehensive approach and specialized dermatological care. Usually, oral antibiotics or isotretinoin are used. It is crucial to promptly seek medical intervention and have the patient's condition regularly monitored by a dermatologist. The success of therapy depends on accurately diagnosing the type of acne and tailoring treatment methods to individual needs.

In the case of severe acne, patient education regarding skincare is equally important. This can help minimize the risk of scarring and improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.

Cystic acne is a severe form of the disease characterized by the presence of cysts filled with pus, which most commonly appear on the face, back, and buttocks. It is an inflammatory skin condition that requires dermatologist intervention. Treatment often involves oral antibiotics or isotretinoin, which helps reduce inflammation and the risk of scarring.

It is crucial to tailor the treatment to the individual needs of the patient to achieve the best results and minimize the impact on the skin. Follow-up visits with a specialist are essential for monitoring treatment progress and adjusting therapy according to the patient's needs.

Cystic acne is a severe form of acne characterized by subcutaneous nodules and pus-filled cysts that typically develop on the face, back, and chest. These lesions can lead to scarring, which is why prompt dermatological treatment is crucial.

Treatment usually involves oral antibiotics and isotretinoin. These medications help reduce inflammation and regulate sebum production. Regular visits to the dermatologist are crucial for monitoring progress and adjusting treatment to the patient's individual needs.

Among the various types of acne, this form has a severe course, requiring special medical attention. 

Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne. It is characterized by numerous deep inflammatory lesions on the skin, making it difficult to treat and requiring specialized dermatological care. Typical features of this form of the disease include painful clusters of nodules and cysts, which can lead to scarring. Effective therapy often involves the use of oral antibiotics and isotretinoin. These medications help control sebum production and alleviate inflammatory conditions.

Cystic acne is an extremely rare and severe form of acne. It manifests suddenly, causing intense inflammatory changes on the skin of the face, back, and chest. What sets it apart from other types of acne is the presence of fever and joint pains.

In this case, immediate action by a dermatologist is necessary. Typically, strong medications such as isotretinoin and corticosteroids are used. It is crucial to start therapy quickly to reduce the risk of complications and improve the quality of life for the patient.

Learn more about laser acne treatment.

Acne related to age takes on various forms at different stages of life. In the youngest children, we can observe infantile acne and newborn acne. The first type is usually mild and disappears on its own, while the second, more common in boys, is associated with the mother's hormones.

Later in life, prepubertal acne may occur in children before puberty. It is mainly characterized by the presence of blackheads, which can develop into more advanced changes with the onset of adolescence.

Infant acne occurs in children between the ages of 3 and 6 months. Small, red pimples and bumps appear on the face, especially on the cheeks and forehead, sometimes with white tips. Treatment is usually not necessary, as these changes disappear on their own after a few weeks or months. However, it is important to maintain the cleanliness of the child's skin and avoid using irritating cosmetic products.

If the symptoms worsen, it is worth consulting a pediatrician or a pediatric dermatologist. The specialist will assess the baby's skin condition and suggest appropriate treatment methods. It is important to remember that infant acne rarely causes scars or permanent marks.

Neonatal acne is a common issue that affects around 1/5 of infants in the first few weeks of life. Symptoms of the condition include red pimples and bumps, sometimes with white tops. Fortunately, this condition is transient and usually resolves on its own without medical intervention. The cause is hormonal changes due to the influence of maternal hormones on the baby.

It is important to take care of the hygiene of the baby and avoid cosmetics that may irritate the skin, which can help alleviate acne symptoms. However, if the skin changes worsen or persist for a longer time, it is advisable to seek advice from a pediatrician or a pediatric dermatologist. The specialist will assess the skin condition and propose appropriate solutions.

Acne in children, which usually appears before the age of 7, is different from adolescent acne. It is characterized by small bumps on the skin. While childhood acne is less common than teenage acne, it still requires proper diagnosis and treatment. Skin changes in children are not linked to hormones, so a different approach to treatment is necessary. Regular consultations with a dermatologist or pediatrician are important for monitoring the child's skin condition and determining the best course of action. They help to avoid complications and ensure proper care.

Prepubertal acne appears in children even before the onset of puberty and is often associated with early hormonal changes. It is mainly characterized by the presence of blackheads, which can develop into more advanced skin problems as puberty approaches.

This type of acne requires a special approach both in terms of diagnosis and treatment.

There are also less common types of acne that require detailed diagnostics and specialized treatment:

• Fungal acne is caused by fungi of the Malassezia genus. It is characterized by itching and the presence of papules and pustules in areas rich in sebaceous glands.
• Neuropathic acne appears as a result of skin irritation. Recurrent scratching or squeezing of lesions can lead to scarring.
• Thyroid acne is associated with thyroid disorders, which affect the hormonal balance of the body.

To correctly diagnose these specific types of acne, a dermatological consultation is necessary. The specialist will choose appropriate therapy methods, taking into account the source of the problem and the individual needs of the patient.

Cosmetic acne, also known as contact acne, appears as a result of using cosmetics that can clog pores. This leads to blackheads and small inflammatory conditions on the face. People who use cosmetics with heavy formulas or products containing comedogenic ingredients are particularly prone to this type of acne. That is why it is so important to choose cosmetics that are suitable for your skin type and avoid substances that can worsen its condition.

Occupational acne is a specific form of acne that appears as a result of exposure to irritating factors in the workplace. It mainly affects individuals who come into contact with harmful substances, such as:

• chemicals in the industrial sector,
• substances in the cosmetic sector,
• other harmful compounds that can lead to clogged pores and skin inflammation.

If you notice symptoms of work-related acne, you need to determine its causes and implement appropriate skin protection and care methods. A visit to a dermatologist can be invaluable in developing a personalized treatment plan that effectively addresses skin problems resulting from occupational conditions.

Drug-induced acne is a specific type of acne that occurs as a result of taking certain medications. These substances can increase sebum production and affect the condition of the skin, leading to the formation of blackheads, papules, and pustules. Symptoms usually appear after starting pharmacological treatment.

To diagnose drug-induced acne, a thorough analysis of the history of medications taken and consultation with a dermatologist are necessary. It is crucial to establish a link between the use of specific medications and the occurrence of skin problems. Understanding the mechanism of action of the drugs causing this type of acne allows for the development of an effective treatment strategy.

Necrotic acne is a rare but serious form of acne characterized by tissue death in skin lesions. It results from significant damage to skin cells and can lead to permanent scarring. Treatment requires specialized dermatological care to avoid complications and improve the patient's skin condition.

In the therapy of necrotic acne, various therapeutic methods are used, such as pharmacotherapy and procedures that support skin regeneration. Collaboration with an experienced dermatologist is essential to achieve optimal treatment results and reduce the risk of long-lasting changes. Additionally, patients should be aware of skincare principles and avoid factors that worsen the skin condition.

Acne caused by specific factors, such as the use of certain medications, represents a particular type of skin issue. Sometimes, the chemicals in pharmaceuticals can lead to overproduction of sebum or block pores, resulting in skin changes.

If you suspect such a problem, seek advice from a dermatologist. The specialist will assess the impact of the medications on acne and suggest any necessary changes to the treatment under their supervision, which can provide relief and improve the skin condition.

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Persistent acne is a type of acne that does not improve with treatment and requires long-term therapy. It is resistant to traditional treatment methods, so regular monitoring of the skin by a dermatologist is necessary. It is important to tailor the treatment to the individual needs of the patient. Both medication and lifestyle changes may be necessary. Visits to a specialist allow for the development of an effective treatment plan and its modification as needed.

It is important to avoid factors that worsen the problem and to maintain proper skin care. This can help in controlling the symptoms of the disease and minimizing its impact on daily life.

Late-onset acne is a problem that occurs in adults without prior skin changes. It is particularly annoying because it appears unexpectedly and is difficult to combat. Various factors may contribute to its occurrence, such as:

• hormonal changes,
• stress,
• inadequate skin care.

If you suspect this type of acne, make an appointment to see a dermatologist. The specialist will help you identify the source of the problem and suggest appropriate therapy. Treatment usually requires an individual approach and the use of products tailored to the patient's needs. Regular consultations allow for ongoing modifications to the therapy based on treatment progress and changes in the skin condition.

Excoriation acne, also known as neurotic excoriation, is a specific type of skin disorder. Skin lesions worsen due to constant scratching and squeezing, resulting from the patient's habits that worsen the skin condition. Such damage can lead to the formation of scars and permanent deformities.

To effectively deal with this problem, a comprehensive approach is necessary. The key is to avoid further skin irritation and apply appropriate therapeutic methods. Therapy includes both dermatological treatment and psychological support. A visit to a dermatologist allows for the selection of the right medications or topical therapies. Additionally, working with a therapist can be helpful in combating harmful habits.

The diagnosis of excoriation acne requires considering physical and emotional factors that affect the patient's skin condition. This enables the development of an effective treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of the patient, improving their well-being and skin health.

Fungal acne is a specific type of acne resulting from a fungal infection on the skin. It is characterized by papules and pustules, which most commonly occur in areas rich in sebaceous glands. Its development is usually associated with fungi Malassezia, which naturally inhabit the skin but can become problematic with excessive growth. Typically, skin changes are accompanied by itching.

To correctly diagnose this type of acne, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. The specialist will conduct appropriate tests and suggest antifungal treatment. The therapy may include both topical and oral antifungal agents, as well as changes in daily skin care habits to help prevent recurrences.

Acne can appear in various parts of the body, affecting the way it is treated. It most commonly occurs on the face, arms, chest, back, and buttocks. The location of skin lesions determines the specificity of therapy and requires an individual approach.

• On the face, acne often concentrates in the T-zone (encompassing the forehead, nose, and chin), where the sebaceous glands are most active. These changes can be painful and visible, affecting the well-being of those dealing with this issue.
• On the arms and back, acne is more scattered but still requires careful treatment.
• The chest and buttocks are less visible areas to others, but daily irritations caused by clothing can exacerbate skin problems and cause discomfort.

Acne on the face is the most common form of this condition, involving various skin changes. The changes typically appear in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) - an area with intense sebaceous gland activity.

Acne on the hands often results from contact with irritating substances. Detergents, chemicals, or some cosmetics can cause the appearance of pimples and bumps on the hands. The key is to identify the irritating factors and avoid them, use gentle hand washing products, and apply protective creams. If the symptoms worsen, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist who will prescribe appropriate treatment.

Acne on the décolletage often results from an excess of sebum and clogged pores. The sebaceous glands in this area, as well as on the back or face, are particularly active, which promotes the formation of skin blemishes.

To minimize the risk of developing acne, it is advisable to:

• use gentle cleansing products,
• avoid heavy cosmetics that can clog pores,
• maintain a regular skincare routine,
• wear breathable clothing.

However, if the symptoms worsen, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. An expert will help tailor the treatment to individual needs.

Back acne is a common skin problem. Its treatment can be challenging due to limited access to this part of the body. The cause of the disease is overactive sebaceous glands and clogged pores. The problem can result from the influence of various factors:

• hormones,
• stress,
• inadequate hygiene.

To effectively combat back acne, it is worth following a few principles. Regularly washing the skin with gentle cleansers helps remove excess sebum and prevent pore blockage. It is also beneficial to wear loose clothing made of breathable fabrics, which reduces irritation and allows the skin to breathe. Collaboration with a dermatologist is essential for developing a personalized treatment plan. It may include topical anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents or oral medications in more severe cases.

Acne on the buttocks is caused by friction, sweat, and bacteria, resulting in the appearance of pimples and nodules. To minimize the risk of its occurrence, it is worth:

• wearing loose, breathable clothing,
• maintaining hygiene,
• avoiding prolonged periods in damp clothing.

It is also important to prevent the proliferation of bacteria. Soaps containing antibacterial or anti-inflammatory ingredients can be particularly helpful.

In case of severe symptoms of the condition, it is advisable to consider consulting a dermatologist who may suggest appropriate treatment with topical preparations tailored to individual needs.