The two types of acne vulgaris are non-inflammatory (whiteheads and blackheads) and inflammatory (papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts).
For further information, see below
Acne vulgaris is a skin condition that affects people of all ages and can cause significant distress and even scarring if left untreated. There are two types of acne vulgaris: non-inflammatory and inflammatory.
Non-inflammatory acne includes whiteheads and blackheads, which occur when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, “hormonal changes, such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, can worsen acne.”
On the other hand, inflammatory acne includes papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, which are accompanied by redness, swelling, and pain. This type of acne can lead to scarring if not properly treated.
It is important to note that acne can affect both the physical and emotional well-being of those who have it. As stated by Dr. Jonette Keri, a dermatologist at the University of Miami Health System: “Acne not only affects the skin, but it also can affect a person emotionally, causing anxiety, depression, and decreased self-esteem.”
Here is a table summarizing the differences between non-inflammatory and inflammatory acne:
| Type of Acne | Description |
|---|---|
| Non-Inflammatory | Whiteheads and blackheads |
| Hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells | |
| Do not cause pain or redness | |
| Inflammatory | Papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts |
| Accompanied by redness, swelling, and pain | |
| Can lead to scarring if left untreated |
In conclusion, identifying the type of acne one has is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment plan. It is recommended to consult with a dermatologist to properly manage acne and improve overall skin health. As stated by the American Academy of Dermatology: “For many people, acne is much more than an occasional pimple. It can significantly impact one’s quality of life, so it is important to seek treatment early and effectively.”
See a related video
The video discusses the various types of acne, beginning by warning against picking at acne because it can lead to inflammation, damage to collagen, and scarring. The dermatologist explains that there are several types of acne including blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cystic acne. Blackheads occur when the area is open and oxidized by the air. Cystic acne develops deeper in the skin and may require treatment with antibiotics to prevent the development of large bulges.
Other approaches of answering your query
Dermatologists rank acne by severity:
- Grade 1 (mild): Mostly whiteheads and blackheads, with a few papules and pustules.
- Grade 2 (moderate or pustular acne): Multiple papules and pustules, mostly on your face.
I’m sure you’ll be interested
What are the common types of acne vulgaris?
The response is: Acne presents as polymorphic lesions starting with comedones.
- Grade 1: Comedones. They are of two types, open and closed.
- Grade 2: Inflammatory lesions present as a small papule with erythema.
- Grade 3: Pustules.
- Grade 4: Many pustules coalesce to form nodules and cysts.
What type of acne is acne vulgaris?
The answer is: Acne vulgaris is the common form of acne, characterised by a mixed eruption of inflammatory and non-inflammatory skin lesions (see all the acne types). You may prefer to call acne "pimples", "spots" or "zits".
What are the two main types of acne?
Broadly speaking, there are two main types: non-inflammatory acne and inflammatory acne.
What is the name of acne vulgaris?
Acne vulgaris is the medical name for common acne — the presence of blackheads, whiteheads, and other types of pimples on the skin.
What are the different types of acne?
Cystic acne: Cystic acne causes deep, pus-filled pimples and nodules. These can cause scars. Hormonal acne: Hormonal acne affects adults who have an overproduction of sebum that clogs their pores. Nodular acne: Nodular acne is a severe form of acne that causes pimples on the surface of your skin, and tender, nodular lumps under your skin.
How does acne vulgaris compare to each type of acne?
The answer is: Because many of the forms of acne can appear similar to one another, it can be important to educate yourself on how acne vulgaris compares to each type: Acne vulgaris vs. cystic acne: Compared to acne vulgaris, cystic acne appears as large, red, and painful cysts on the skin.
What causes acne vulgaris?
Acne vulgaris is caused by a combination of hormones, oil, and bacteria. Hormonal changes as well as lifestyle factors, such as diet and skincare, can affect breakouts. During puberty, a class of hormones called androgens increase and small, oil-producing glands called the sebaceous glands produce more of the oily substance sebum.
Is acne a clog?
Acne is a common skin condition where the pores of your skin clog. Pore blockages produce blackheads, whiteheads and other types of pimples. Pimples are pus-filled, sometimes painful, bumps on your skin. The medical term for acne is acne vulgaris. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.