The Different Types of Acne
Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the pilosebaceous unit, consisting of the hair follicle and sebaceous glands. It is characterized by the appearance of lesions such as blackheads (comedones), pimples (papules and pustules), nodules, and cysts, predominantly in areas like the face, neck, back, and shoulders. Acne is a common dermatological condition that manifests in various forms, differing in severity and characteristics. Understanding the different types of acne is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Below, we present the main types of acne, as categorized by dermatology experts:
1. Comedonal Acne (Blackheads)Characterized by the presence of comedones, which can be:
• Open comedones (blackheads): Lesions with a dilated opening and darkened content due to melanin oxidation.
• Closed comedones (whiteheads): Small bumps on the skin with clogged pores, not exposed to air, maintaining a whitish color.
2. Inflammatory Acne Involves more pronounced inflammation and includes:
• Papules: Small, red, and tender bumps on the skin, without visible pus.
• Pustules: Lesions similar to papules but with pus at the center, resulting in a white or yellowish tip.
3. Nodulocystic Acne A more severe form of acne, characterized by:
• Nodules: Large, painful, and solid lesions that form in the deeper layers of the skin.
• Cysts: Deep lesions filled with pus, potentially leading to permanent scars.
4. Acne Conglobata One of the most severe forms of acne, presenting with:
• Extensive inflammatory lesions, including interconnected nodules and cysts.
• A propensity for significant scarring.
5. Acne Fulminans A rare and extremely severe type of acne, characterized by:
• Sudden onset of ulcerated, painful nodules.
• Systemic symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and general malaise.
6. Neonatal and Infantile Acne
• Neonatal Acne: Appears in newborns, usually due to maternal hormonal influence, manifesting as small pustules on the face.
• Infantile Acne: Occurs between 3 to 6 months of age, potentially being more persistent and, in rare cases, indicating a predisposition to severe acne during adolescence.
7. Cosmetic Acne Caused by the use of cosmetic products that clog pores, leading to the development of acne lesions, especially in areas where products are frequently applied.
8. Occupational Acne Results from exposure to chemical substances in the workplace that can induce or worsen acne, such as industrial oils and tar.
9. Medication-Induced Acne Triggered by the use of certain medications that can cause or aggravate acne, including corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, and some antidepressants.
It is important to emphasize that correctly identifying the type of acne is essential for determining the most appropriate treatment. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist for a personalized evaluation and specific guidance is highly recommended.