Acne is common in every age group, especially pubescent teens and people with sensitive skin! You know, there’s more than one acne types right? Even the shape is not always as we know it, it’s not always red and lump-shaped. Although the origin of acne is due to oil blockage in the pores, each type of acne can also have other factors.
So, today Serenitree will discuss the most common types of acne. There are usually 5 acne types, namely: Whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, papules and cystic acne. Let’s read until the end, it could be that what you think is not acne turns out to be acne!
Whiteheads
Not many people know that comedo is a type of acne! However, comedo is the basic acne that first appears when our pores are clogged with oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. If not resolved, then the comedo will turn into other acne types.
Unlike blackheads, whiteheads occur below the surface of the skin when the pores are still closed. The characteristics of whiteheads are small bumps or spots of white color.
Why does it happen? Apart from pore blockage, this type of acne is commonly formed due to hormones. That’s why it becomes more prevalent when a person’s hormones are elevated (e.g. during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation).
We often see videos on how to extract whiteheads using tools. It does look satisfying, but it turns out that this method is not recommended! This will actually spread bacteria and worsen acne. Therefore, we should overcome this by washing our face every morning and night with warm water combined with a gentle cleanser. Don’t forget to use skincare with salicylic and glycolic acid!
Blackheads
While whiteheads are located below the surface of the skin, blackheads are pimples located above the surface of the skin!
You can see the characteristics of blackheads by the presence of black spots on the skin. The tip of this pimple is black due to increased skin pigment.
The reason for these blackheads is due to the buildup of oil, bacteria, dead skin cells and exposure to dust, or lack of skin hygiene. Almost the same factor as whiteheads, right?
However, it is a bit more difficult to treat than whiteheads. Serenitree highly recommends that you refer to a professional for safe extraction of blackheads (e.g. a facial). We can also prevent them by exfoliating diligently and using products with glycolic acid or retinol. Keep up with your hygiene to avoid blackheads!
Cystic Acne
This is known as “cystic” acne and is one of the acne types that has become inflamed. The causes are many, it could be due to hormones, excess oil production, facial hygiene or exposure to certain medications.
The characteristics of acne are redness and bumps that can continue to grow if the infection is not stopped. Usually the pimple will first feel soft to the touch (contains pus) and then turn hard (pus has hardened) over time.
As a result, these pimples are prone to leaving marks. These marks are also difficult to disappear! That’s why we don’t recommend squeezing them! Apart from being painful, it is also prone to spreading bacteria. The most effective way to treat it is to refer to a professional. You will have several alternatives depending on the level of inflammation, for example: steroid injections, retinoids and isotretinoin, and antibiotics.
Pustules
Just like cystic acne, pustules also have pus in them!
The characteristic is a red lump filled with pus with white in the middle. If touched, it can be painful so it feels uncomfortable. Teenagers are usually more prone to pustules.
Why do pustules form? The formation of pustules is due to inflammation that starts with clogged pores. The infection is generally caused by our immune system, namely white blood cells, to fight bacteria in the pores. That is what will then become pus in the pustules. Allergic reactions, hormonal changes and dirt on the skin can also be contributing factors!
For treatment, we can use topical acne medications containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids, take antibiotics and perform photodynamic therapy. Photodynamic therapy is a laser therapy that aims to eliminate acne and shrink oil glands.
Papula
The difference between papules and cystic acne and pustules is that they do not contain pus.
Generally, papules will be solid lumps that appear reddish with no white color in the center. The bump is small, approximately ⅕ of an inch. If not treated immediately, papules can turn into acne pustules in a matter of days.
The appearance of papules is a combination of follicle blockage, bacterial infection, stress, hormonal changes and excess sugar consumption. So to avoid this, make sure we always pay attention to the cleanliness of our hair, skin, and the balance of mental and physical health!
The treatment is more or less the same as for pustules, using topical medication and antibiotics. However, there are some additional things we can do such as taking birth control pills or hormone therapy. The function is to stabilize hormones and reduce excess oil/sebum production.
Natural Skincare and Acne
So, what is your acne type Serenitree Squad? Have you been successful in combating skin acne problems? Indeed, treatment will be much more difficult and longer than prevention.
Why are natural products superior? Obviously because the ingredients come from nature so there is very little risk of someone experiencing an allergic reaction or other negative side effects. As a result, the skin stays healthy and supple! Taking care of your skin is a form of acne prevention!
That’s why it’s best to prevent them as early as possible. Serenitree can support you in terms of natural treatments that are safe for the skin. The natural ingredients are very effective in combating irritation and keeping the skin moisturized! For example: Vegetable Glycerin that soothes irritation and protects skin from infection or Calendula Extract that regenerates dead skin cells to prevent build-up.
Let’s check out Serenitree’s skincare for a start! Once you try it, you just might get addicted to it!