Acne is a very common skin condition caused by hair follicles becoming clogged with oil, bacteria, dead skin, and dirt. There are many different types of acne like blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. These types of acne can be categorized by inflamed and non inflamed acne lesions. Severity of acne can range from mild, moderate, to severe. Some factors increase risk for acne like hormones, hereditary, age (teens), and medications.
Different Types of Acne
Blackheads
Blackheads are open comedones where oxygen has oxidized in the pore giving a darker appearance. Blackheads are enlarged pores filled with sebum (oil).
Whiteheads
Whiteheads are closed comedones. Whiteheads look more like a raised bump with oil and skin cells clogging the follicle.
Papules
Papules are small, inflamed bumps that appear as red or pink. These bumps don't usually have white or yellow pus-filled tips.
Pustules
Pustules are also small, inflamed bumps. They resemble a white head with a red ring around the bump.
Nodules
This type of inflamed acne involves bacteria called p-acne. They can feel firm to the touch, very red, and swollen.
Cysts
Cystic acne is a severe type of inflamed acne. These are large pus filled lesions that look similar to boils. Usually formed deep under the skin and can be painful.
Different Grades of Acne
Mild Acne
Mild acne is the lowest classification of acne. Usually having fewer than 30 total lesions (20 white/ blackheads/ 5 inflamed acne) mild acne may occur on isolated parts of the face like chin, nose, and forehead.
Moderate Acne
Moderate acne is the middle classification of acne. Can be characterized by having 20-100 white/blackheads and 15-50 inflamed bumps totaling 30-125 lesions.
Severe Acne
Severe acne is the highest classification of acne. Severe is more than a few minor blemishes. Typically having large cysts or inflamed nodules that cover a large area of the skin. Severe acne can cause swelling, scaring, and painful lesions.
So, what is the best treatment for acne?
At Illumé Med Spa in Lee's Summit, MO, we have several effective treatment options for acne. Some of these treatments include:
Facials
Chemical Peels
LED Light
IPL Photo Rejuvenation
Medical-Grade Skincare
If you are looking for an acne treatment in Lee's Summit, Missouri, schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more about your treatment options today!
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