Types of Acne

There are many types of acne. Below are the commonly recognized types of acne.Acne lesions are also known as pimples, zits and blemishes. 
 
Acne Vulgaris
 
The raised, red bumps on your skin are also known as Acne Vulgaris. Affects teenagers and may follow them to adulthood. 

Whiteheads

 
Hardly pretty to look at, whiteheads are formed when a pore is blocked. This shows up as white dots on your skin surface.

Blackheads

A partially blocked pore is known as blackhead. Shows up as raised dark spots on skin. This is a result of the reaction of the skin’s own pigment, melanin. While a whitehead is easier to remove, a blackhead takes time to completely clear up.

Papules

Papules are red, bumpy and have no head.

Pustules

Likened to a whitehead but makes its appearance as a ruddy circle with a yellow centre.

Nodules 

Large and painful, nodules can last for months. Bumpy and inflamed, it causes scarring if left untreated.

Cysts

Pus filled and painful as well. Large and squeezing it may cause severe infection.

 
Adult Acne
 
If you are still getting acne at age 30 and above, you may be suffering from adult acne. Many who have not had acne as teens, suddenly find themselves with acne. Many reasons contribute to adult acne.

Here are some reasons or possible factors;

   1. Acne often reappears lung after the teen ages. There have been no clear reasons as to why this happens.
   2. Hormonal fluctuations in women help encourage the growth of acne. This is prevalent in pregnant women and women during the menstrual cycles.
   3. An individual may have had smooth, clear skin as a teen but this doesn’t mean that acne will not affect them. Many have acne for the very first time when in their 30’s and 40’s.

Some factors that may cause adult acne are;

   1. Medication like anti depressants and other strong drugs worsen acne.
   2. Excessive pressure on skin from chaffing and harsh materials
   3. Industrial chemicals like grease, chlorine and other harsh chemicals
   4. Metabolic reactions like hormonal imbalances when menstruating and during pregnancy.

Rosacea

Looks like acne but it is not acne. Rosacea is one of the most commonly known skin conditions in the US. This condition is prevalent in adults over the age of 30. How does Rosacea look like? Rosacea appears as a ruddy skin rash on one’s chin, moth area, nsoe and forehead. Sometimes, blood capillaries may show through skin. Though it affects more women than men, it is more severe in men.

 
Acne Mechanica

Again, this is caused by constant pressure and friction. A very common condition in those involved in athletics and sports. Constant exposure to many environmental factors and occupational chemicals greatly encourage acne too. Those in the military carry backpacks and weapons that may also cause friction.

More causes of acne breakouts
 
1) Suing scrunchies and headbands

2) Form fitting clothes that are worn over a long period of time especially ones made from synthetic materials.

3) Bra straps that are a tad too snug against skin.

Acne Cosmetica
 
Often times, many women don not remove their make up before sleeping. These may find that they have breakouts in foreheads and cheeks. Cosmetics wioth high minearla oil content and heavy oils causes this type of acne breakout.

Pomade Acne
 
Crazy about the latest hairstyles? And find that your hair gets unruly at times? In normal situations like these, a thick, oily hair cosmetic known as pomade is often used. Working as a sculpting agent, pomade causes acne breakouts on the scalp, forehead, and temples. Hardly the effect you have been looking for! 

Excoriated Acne

 
Mother always tells us to not scratch the skin! Now we know why. Excoriated acne appears when one picks and scratches at every given opportunity. Its not good to scratching s this may lead to scarring too. It is best to leave them alone or better still to seek the attention of a qualified dermatologist for treatment. With proper care and treatment, we can minimize the damaging effects of Excoriated acne

Infantile Acne

It is hard to imagine a baby with acne! But it happens. This is caused by the hormonal changes that have taken place in the mother’s womb. The good news is the acne subsides in a matter of weeks of treatment.

Benzoyl peroxide is usually used as a topical agent to help heal the acne.

Babies may suffer from acne as a result of

   1. Family susceptibility to acne: Does the baby’s parents suffer from acne? If they do, then the baby may have inherited this from them.
   2. Infantile hormonal production: Androgens which are abnormally produced at this stage is linked to acne. If left untreated, this could lead to further complications.
   3.

   4. See a pediatrician if baby shows signs of developmental problems. Acne formation is a good indicator of such abnormalities.
   5. Drug-induced acne: Exposure to medication can cause acne lesions. Such drugs include corticosteroids and etc.

  Read on the next article: Best Natural Acne Treatment

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