Acne treatment is easier to understand when you know exactly what acne is. Acne
is a term used for describing clogged pores that develop into
whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, and pimples. This can occur not only on
the face, but also on the back, upper arms, shoulders, chest, and neck.
Acne affects most teenagers in some way, but it is not only restricted
to that age group. Adults of all ages may get acne. It is not a life
threatening disease, but without acne treatment it can disfigure, scar,
and disrupt the life of an acne sufferer.
Most people have mild acne that is easily manageable with an
over-the-counter acne treatment. Sufferers of moderate to severe acne
require acne treatment under the direction of a dermatologist.
Acne usually starts somewhere between the ages of eleven to eighteen,
regardless of race. Typically, outbreaks happen for somewhere between
three to ten years. For most people, acne disappears in their twenties
and does not return. However, this is not always the case. Some people
do not develop acne until adulthood.
Men and women equally suffer from acne. Young men usually have more
severe acne, requiring acne treatment with a dermatologist. A young
woman's acne is many times due to hormonal changes or reactions to
cosmetics, which usually respond well to acne treatment.
Types of Acne:
Types of Acne # 1 Comedo - A follicle
clogged with dead skin cells, hairs, or bacteria. A blackhead is an
open comedo that has a black appearance. A whitehead is a closed comedo
and it looks like a slightly raised bump. With a whitehead, the comedo
opening is closed over with skin. A blackhead comedo is open. Do not
squeeze or pick at whiteheads or blackheads.
Types of Acne # 2 Papule - A small, solid bump elevated
slightly above the skin surface. A grouping of small papules is
sometimes practically invisible, but does have the feel of sandpaper.
Types of Acne # 3 Pustule - A larger raised bump
that contains pus consisting of dead skin cells, white blood cells, and
bacteria. Pustules healed with acne treatment do not usually progress
to the cystic phase and do not usually leave scars.
Types of Acne # 4 Macule - A red spot left by acne that
has healed. A macule is usually temporary, lasting a few days to a few
weeks before it disappears.
Types of Acne # 5 Nodule - Similar to a papule with
inflammation, nodules extend deep into the skin and sometimes cause
tissue damage and scarring. Nodules are severe and usually best treated
with an acne treatment from a dermatologist.
Types of Acne # 6 Cyst - Cysts are raised bumps containing
dead skin cells, white blood cells, and bacteria. Cysts are larger than
pustules. They are usually seriously inflamed and extend deep into the
skin. Cysts are painful and typically leave a scar. Acne treatment for
cysts should be under the care of a dermatologist.
