Understanding Acne: The Different Types & How to Treat Them
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, affecting people of all ages and skin types. While breakouts can be frustrating, understanding the type of acne you’re dealing with is the first step toward effective treatment. Whether you experience occasional breakouts or persistent acne, knowing the root cause and the right treatments can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of acne, their causes, and the best treatments to keep breakouts under control.
What Causes Acne?
Acne forms when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Several factors can contribute to acne, including:
🔹 Excess Oil Production – Overactive sebaceous (oil) glands can clog pores.
🔹 Bacteria (P. Acnes) – This bacteria thrives in clogged pores, leading to inflammation.
🔹 Hormonal Changes – Fluctuations in hormones (puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy) can increase oil production.
🔹 Diet & Lifestyle – High-sugar, dairy-rich diets and stress can contribute to breakouts.
🔹 Genetics – Some people are more prone to acne due to family history.
Understanding what triggers your acne can help you choose the best skincare routine and treatments to manage it.
The Different Types of Acne & How to Treat Them
Not all breakouts are the same! Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of acne and the best ways to treat them.
1. Whiteheads (Closed Comedones)
✔️ What it looks like: Small, flesh-colored or white bumps under the skin.
✔️ Cause: Clogged pores from excess oil and dead skin cells.
✔️ Treatment:
Use salicylic acid to exfoliate and keep pores clear.
Apply niacinamide to regulate oil production.
Avoid picking, as it can lead to scarring.
2. Blackheads (Open Comedones)
✔️ What it looks like: Small, dark spots on the skin’s surface (oxidized oil in pores).
✔️ Cause: Pores clogged with oil and debris that remain open to air.
✔️ Treatment:
Salicylic acid is key for dissolving blackheads.
Retinol speeds up cell turnover, preventing new blackheads.
Regular exfoliation (chemical, not physical) helps keep pores clear.
3. Papules (Inflamed Red Bumps)
✔️ What it looks like: Small, red, inflamed bumps without pus.
✔️ Cause: Blocked pores combined with bacterial overgrowth.
✔️ Treatment:
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria.
Tea tree oil provides a natural anti-inflammatory solution.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as it worsens inflammation.
4. Pustules (White or Yellow Pimples)
✔️ What it looks like: Red bumps with white or yellow pus-filled centers.
✔️ Cause: Bacteria, oil, and dead skin trapped in pores.
✔️ Treatment:
Spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide help reduce bacteria.
Clay masks absorb excess oil and prevent new breakouts.
Avoid squeezing, as it can cause scarring and spread bacteria.
5. Nodules (Deep, Painful Bumps)
✔️ What it looks like: Large, hard lumps deep under the skin with no visible head.
✔️ Cause: Severe inflammation and bacteria deep within the skin layers.
✔️ Treatment:
Prescription treatments (like oral antibiotics or isotretinoin) are often needed.
Professional treatments like laser therapy or cortisone injections can help.
Avoid touching or squeezing, as this can worsen scarring.
6. Cystic Acne (Severe, Painful, Pus-Filled Lumps)
✔️ What it looks like: Large, swollen, painful pimples filled with pus.
✔️ Cause: Deep infections within the skin caused by bacteria and excess oil.
✔️ Treatment:
Dermatologist-prescribed medications (oral antibiotics, Accutane).
Chemical peels and light therapy can improve severe breakouts.
Hydrocolloid patches may help with healing without scarring.
Professional Acne Treatments That Work
While a good skincare routine helps prevent breakouts, professional treatments can provide faster and more effective results for stubborn acne. Here are some of the best in-office treatments for acne-prone skin:
💆♀️ Acne Facials – Deep cleansing, extractions, and soothing masks to calm breakouts.
🧴 Chemical Peels (Salicylic/Lactic Acid, BioRePeel) – Exfoliates, unclogs pores, and fades acne scars.
💡 LED Light Therapy – Blue light kills acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation.
💉 Microneedling with Peels – Helps improve acne scars and skin texture over time.
✨ Face Reality Acne Program – Customized treatments to clear acne without harsh medications.
At-Home Skincare Tips for Clear Skin
🧼 1. Cleanse Twice Daily – Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser.
💦 2. Moisturize Even If You Have Oily Skin – Lightweight, oil-free formulas help maintain balance.
🌞 3. Always Wear Sunscreen – Protects against post-acne marks and sun damage.
🔄 4. Exfoliate Wisely – Chemical exfoliants like salicylic or glycolic acid help prevent clogged pores.
🚫 5. Avoid Touching Your Face – Keeps bacteria from spreading.
💧 6. Stay Hydrated & Eat Skin-Friendly Foods – Limit dairy and processed sugars for clearer skin.
When to See a Professional
If you’ve tried over-the-counter treatments with little success, it might be time to seek professional acne care. Stubborn, painful, or cystic acne often requires a combination of skincare treatments, prescription options, and professional guidance for long-term results.
✨ At our spa, we specialize in advanced acne treatments, including customized facials, chemical peels, and the Face Reality Acne Program. Book a consultation today, and let’s create a plan to achieve your clearest skin yet!✨
📅 Schedule Your Acne Consultation Today!
