Acne, a problem that affects people of both genders and people of a variety of ages, comes in many different forms. Although usually thought of as a problem that teenagers deal with, it can actually affect adults, and in some cases even babies. There are a variety of different types of acne. In some cases they may be related, but in other cases the type of acne is totally independent. Usually the types of acne are distinguished by their size and whether or not they are inflammatory. Acne can be quite small, like a microcomedo, or it can come in larger sizes like pimples or even cysts. Knowing and understanding the different types of acne is important so that you can effectively treat the acne problem.

Nodules/Cystic

Nodules, which are known as the most severe form of acne, are also called cysts. They actually have a sac like formation that is under the skin. This is actually an inflammatory type of acne and it can spread underneath the skin to other tissue. The inflammation of this type of acne runs very deep, and it can cause large cysts that are very painful as well. Cystic acne is more likely to cause scarring than any other type of acne, so if you have this type of acne you should definitely keep your hands off your skin.

Acne Vulgaris

Acne Vulgaris is the most common type of acne, and this is the type of acne that most teenagers end up dealing with. Both blackheads and whiteheads are included in this type of acne. Not only is it the most common type of acne, but it is also usually the easiest type of acne to treat. Some of the best treatments for acne vulgaris includes benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Acne Vulgaris usually starts out with the overproduction of sebum, which then tends mix with dead skin cells and clog up the pores causing a whitehead or blackhead to develop. This type of acne can occur on your neck, chest, arms, and back; however, it usually is more frequently found on the face.

Baby Acne

While may people may not realize it, babies can get acne as well. Baby acne is actually quite common in babies, and while some have it when they are born, others may not develop it until a few weeks later. Usually baby acne will show up on the chin, the forehead, the cheeks, and sometimes on the back of the baby. Most of the time you will find that baby acne will be all cleared up within just a few weeks; however, rough materials, fabric softeners, and even being hot can aggravate this problem. If the problem seems to persist more than a couple of months, then you may want to consult with your baby’s pediatrician.

Scalp Folliculitis

Scalp folliculitis is a type of acne that usually develops in the scalp or all around the hair line. The hair often produces quite a bit of oil, and when combined with dirt it can easily cause this type of acne to occur. Not only will you notice some acne in the scalp, but the scalp can also become very scaly and dry at the same time too. The use of an acne fighting shampoo is the best way to combat scalp folliculitis.

Acne Rosacea

Many people think that acne rosacea is a type of acne; however, even though it may have some of the same appearances, it is actually very different. Inflamed bumps tend to be a part of rosacea and they do look quite a bit like pimples. Usually a flushing of the face and in some cases a red bulbous nose will accompany rosacea as well. Rosacea is very different than acne and because the causes of rosacea are different it is important that the treatments are different as well.

Understanding the different types of acne is very important. This information can help you recognize what form of acne you are dealing with, which then can help you find the right treatments for your acne problem.