Acne Scars: 5 Types, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Acne scars are a common concern that can significantly impact one’s self-esteem, leaving many in search of solutions for clearer, smoother skin. These scars are more than just a physical reminder of past acne bouts; they can affect how people perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others.

There are several types of acne scars: atrophic scars (ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars), and hypertrophic and keloid scars.

Many people dealing with acne scars seek clearer, smoother skin, motivated by a desire for improved appearance and boosted confidence. Since each type of acne scar—whether atrophic, hypertrophic, or keloid—requires specific approaches, understanding the nature of these scars is crucial for effective treatment.

What are Acne Scars?

Acne scars are textural changes on the skin and indentations that develop as a result of severe acne. These scars occur when the skin’s inflammatory response to acne lesions, such as pimples, damages the underlying tissue and disrupts the healing process. When a pimple heals, the skin often undergoes a complex reparative process.

Initially, the inflammation caused by the acne lesion signals the body’s immune system to start the healing process. This involves the generation of new collagen fibres that attempt to repair the skin. If the original inflammation is too intense or lasts for an extended period, it can disrupt this process, leading to the formation of scars.

During this inflammatory response, the body produces collagen to repair the damaged skin. However, if the body produces too little or too much collagen, it can result in atrophic scars (depressions in the skin) or hypertrophic scars (raised areas on the skin), respectively.

How common is acne scarring? More than 90% of people experiencing acne develop acne scarring.

Types of Acne Scars

Understanding the different types of acne scars can help in finding the most effective treatment.

Rolling scars

Skin problem with acne diseases, Close up woman face with dry lip mouth, Scar and oily greasy face, Beauty concept.

Rolling scars appear as shallow, wavy indentations on the skin. They are typically caused by damage under the skin’s surface, leading to an uneven appearance.

Ice pick scars

ice pick scars on face

Ice pick scars are narrow, deep pits that resemble tiny, sharp indentations. These are deeper scars, making them more challenging to treat.

Boxcar Scars

face with box scars

Boxcar scars are characterised by square or rectangular depressions with sharp edges. These scars often result from severe acne and give the skin a pitted look.

Atrophic Scars

face with atrrophic scars

Atrophic scars are skin depressions that result from the lack of collagen during wound healing.

Hypertrophic and Keloid Scars

face with keloid scars

Hypertrophic and keloid scars manifest as raised, red scar tissue, but they differ in their appearance and growth patterns. Hypertrophic scars remain within the boundaries of the original wound, while keloid scars extend beyond the area of injury. These raised scars are a result of an excessive production of collagen during the healing process. When the body produces too much collagen, it can lead to the formation of either hypertrophic or keloid scars, depending on the individual’s skin type and healing response.

Causes of Acne Scars

Acne scars primarily result from severe acne and the habit of picking at pimples.

When acne is particularly intense, it often penetrates deep into the skin, causing damage that the body attempts to repair. However, this repair process can be imperfect, leading to the formation of scars. Picking or squeezing pimples exacerbates this issue by further damaging the skin and increasing the risk of infection and inflammation.

Inflammation also causes the formation of acne scars. When the skin tissue becomes inflamed, the body deploys its defence mechanisms, including white blood cells and other substances aimed at healing the affected area. However, this process can sometimes go overboard, resulting in the destruction of surrounding skin tissues and leading to scars.

Acne scarring may also be due to genetics and skin type. Some individuals are more predisposed to scarring due to their genetic makeup. Additionally, certain skin types, particularly those that easily discolour or have a tendency for hyperpigmentation, are more susceptible to scarring.

Prevention Tips for Acne Scars

Acne scars can be frustrating, but strategies are available to reduce their occurrence and severity. Here are some practical prevention tips:

1. Proper Acne Management Routine:

Maintaining a consistent skincare routine is crucial. Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin without stripping it, and hydrate it with an oil-free moisturiser, as dry skin can aggravate acne.

2. Use Non-Comedogenic Products:

Choose skincare and cosmetic products that are labelled ‘non-comedogenic’. These formulated products do not clog pores, reducing the potential for acne breakouts and subsequent scarring.

3. Avoid Picking at Pimples:

As tempting as it might be, picking at pimples can lead to increased inflammation and scar formation. Apply a spot treatment instead, and let the pimple heal naturally.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments:

woman on a beach

Make sure to eat a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, and stay hydrated. Exercise also reduces stress, which is a known trigger for acne.

5. Seek Professional Help for Persistent Acne:

If acne persists despite home care, consider consulting a doctor. They can provide treatments such as topical or oral medications, as well as other therapies to control acne and prevent scarring.

How can I reduce my risk of acne scars? To reduce the risk of acne scars, follow a good skincare routine diligently, avoid picking or squeezing pimples, and use non-comedogenic products to prevent clogs in your pores. Also, observe a balanced diet, proper hydration, and stress management.

The Importance of Consistency

Consistency in your skincare routine ensures that your skin remains balanced, free of excess oil, and less prone to breakouts. By consistently using products that are suited to your skin type, you allow your skin to benefit fully from their active ingredients, leading to better overall skin health.

This disciplined approach helps reduce the chances of severe acne that could lead to scarring, making it an essential aspect of any effective skincare strategy.

Treatment Options for Acne Scars

Treatment options span from in-office procedures and surgical interventions. It’s essential to understand the different approaches to find the best one suitable for your specific needs. Consulting a doctor is crucial as they can provide a personalised treatment plan.

In-office Procedures

woman in offfice procedures

TCA Cross Chemical Peels:

The TCA Cross technique is commonly used specifically for treating ice pick scars.

This procedure typically takes 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the number of scars being treated. Repeated sessions may be required for optimal results. This procedure usually involves downtime of up to a week. The full results from a single procedure may take up to 3-6 months to show as the skin continues to heal and remodel collagen in the treated areas. 

Intracel RF Microneedling:

Intracel RF Microneedling involves using tiny needles in a device to create micro-injuries in the skin. The tips of these microneedles produce radiofrequency which further helps to stimulate collagen growth. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing response to encourage new collagen and elastin production, which can improve skin texture and reduce scarring.

This procedure typically takes about 20- 30 minutes, and patients may experience mild redness of the skin for 2 to 3 days after the treatment. Results can be seen after 1 to 3 months, as the body will take time to stimulate collagen production and smoothen the skin. 

Fractional CO2 Laser:

Fractional CO2 laser is a popular procedure for treating and resurfacing acne scars. This method uses an ablative laser in a grid-like pattern on the skin, where the skin between the treated areas serves as a reservoir that contains healthy tissue to promote healing.

The laser beams reach the correct layers of skin, causing a reaction to resurface, remodel and regenerate collagen that repairs acne scars. A topical numbing cream is usually applied to make the procedure more comfortable for you.

This treatment takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes, and patients might feel slight tingling and mild redness after. In 2-3 days, micro- scabs will form and this typically takes 7-9 days to fully heal. It is recommended not to pick on the scabs and allow them to drop off naturally. The Fractional Co2 laser can be done 5 to 10 more times for better results, with treatments spaced about a month apart.

Subcision:

Subcision disrupts the acne scar tissue under the skin and separates it by using a needle. A needle is placed into each individual scar and is used to subcise stubborn scars to smoothen it further. There might be some bleeding during the treatment. Temporary bruising and needle marks can be expected after the treatment. This procedure comes with a downtime of 5-7 days.  Repeated sessions may be required for better results. 

PDRN S Injections:

PDRN S is an injection containing polynucleotides to treat acne scars. It is injected into the base of the scar to repair skin, promote healing, and stimulate cells to produce collagen. 

This procedure can be done together with subcission. 

There may be small bumps in the treated area after the procedure. The bumps will usually resolve in 1-3 days. Your skin will typically recover from needle marks within 5-7 days.

Scar Excision:

For more severe acne scars, surgical options such as scar excision might be recommended. This procedure involves removing the scar tissue entirely and then closing the area with stitches, resulting in a smaller, less visible scar.

Fillers:

Dermal fillers work by filling in the indented scars, helping to smooth out the surface of the skin. This does not fully remove the appearance of the scars but rather, it makes the scar appear less obvious or sunken. Fillers provide immediate results, although they are not a permanent solution and might require repeat treatments. Typically results last about 6-9 months before the procedure will have to be repeated again. 

Importance of Consulting a Dermatologist

consulting dermatologist

Successfully treating acne scars often requires a combination of different approaches. A doctor will evaluate the type of scars you have and recommend the ideal treatment for your acne scars.

With the right guidance and treatment, significant improvements in the appearance of acne scars are entirely possible.

When to See a Doctor?

There are certain situations where consulting a doctor becomes essential. If your scars are causing significant emotional distress or if your scars are deep or widespread, it’s important to seek professional help.

A doctor can assess the scars and recommend suitable treatment options, which may include microneedling, laser therapy, or surgical procedures.

Living with Acne Scars

Living with acne scars can have a profound psychological impact, influencing various facets of an individual’s life.

One of the most significant effects is a reduction in self-confidence. People with prominent acne scars might feel less attractive or worry excessively about their skin’s appearance, often diminishing their self-esteem. This decreased self-confidence can lead to social anxiety, as individuals might fear judgement or ridicule from others.

Social interactions, once a source of joy, could become stress-inducing events that are avoided whenever possible. Moreover, feeling self-conscious about one’s appearance can create a constant inner dialogue of self-criticism, affecting both personal and professional relationships.

Understanding this psychological burden is crucial in fostering a more empathetic and supportive environment for those coping with acne scars.

Acne scars can manifest in various forms, from atrophic scars like ice pick and boxcar scars to hypertrophic and keloid scars. You can prevent acne scars by treating acne early, avoiding picking or squeezing pimples, and using appropriate skincare products.

Numerous treatment options exist to reduce the appearance of acne scars. These include in-office procedures such as TCA cross chemical peels, Intracel RF Microneedling, and Fractional Co2 laser resurfacing, PDRN injections, as well as dermal fillers. 

The possibility of achieving smoother skin is not only hopeful but also realistic with the right treatment approach and professional guidance. Advances in dermatological treatments mean that even severe acne scars can see significant improvement. With patience and perseverance, clearer and more radiant skin is within reach.

Cystic Acne: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that can be particularly distressing due to its painful and persistent nature. Affecting both appearance and self-esteem, this condition requires a deep understanding and comprehensive treatment approach. This article aims to explain cystic acne by exploring its causes, symptoms, and available acne treatments now.

What is Cystic Acne?

Cystic acne is a type of acne that forms when hair follicles become clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, excess oil, and bacteria. Unlike other forms of acne, cystic acne is characterised by large, inflamed, and pus-filled lesions that develop deep within the skin.

Cystic acne begins much like other types of acne, with the clogging of hair follicles due to an overproduction of sebum and the accumulation of oil and dead skin cells. When bacteria invade these clogged pores, inflammation occurs, leading to the formation of cysts. These cysts are painful and red, and can persist for weeks or even months.

face with cystic acne

How It Differs from Other Types of Acne

Cystic acne differs significantly from other forms of acne, such as papules, pustules, whiteheads, and blackheads.

  • Papules are small, red, tender bumps without pus, typically caused by inflammation. They often result from acne and can be slightly painful to touch.
  • Pustules have a central core of pus with a red base, appearing as raised, white bumps surrounded by inflamed skin. They are commonly associated with acne and infections.
  • Whiteheads are closed comedones, where the pore is completely blocked by sebum and dead skin cells. They appear as small, white bumps and are a form of non-inflammatory acne.
  • Blackheads are open comedones where the pore is partially blocked, allowing the trapped material to oxidise and turn black. They are commonly found on the nose and chin and are a form of mild acne.

Unlike these milder forms, cystic acne is deeper, more inflamed, and carries a higher risk of the most severe form of scarring.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cystic Acne?

Several key characteristics can help identify cystic acne:

  • Painful, Deep Lesions: The cysts are located deep within the skin and can be extremely painful, often causing discomfort and tenderness in the affected areas.
  • Pus-Filled: These lesions contain pus and are often red or swollen, leading to visible inflammation and a feeling of pressure or tightness in the skin.
  • Persistent: Cystic acne lasts longer than other forms of acne, sometimes persisting for months. This prolonged duration can lead to significant emotional distress and may require ongoing treatment to manage effectively.

Common Locations

Cystic acne can appear on various body parts, with the most common locations being the face, back, chest, and shoulders.

  • Face: The face is one of the most frequently affected areas, particularly the cheeks, jawline, and chin. The visibility of facial cystic acne can lead to significant self-consciousness and emotional distress.
  • Back: Often referred to as “bacne,” cystic acne on the back can be particularly uncomfortable due to the pressure from clothing and backpacks. The skin on the back is thicker, which can lead to more severe infections and larger cysts.
  • Chest: The chest area is another common site for cystic acne, often linked to hormonal fluctuations and sweating. The appearance of cysts here can be distressing and uncomfortable, particularly when engaging in physical activities.
  • Shoulders: The shoulders are susceptible to cystic acne, especially in individuals who engage in sports or wear tight clothing. This area can be prone to friction and pressure, exacerbating the condition.

Potential for Scarring

Due to its severity and depth, cystic acne carries a significant risk of scarring, often leaving behind deep, pitted marks that can be challenging to treat. This can result in both physical and emotional distress, including lowered self-esteem and anxiety, further underscoring the importance of effective treatment. Addressing cystic acne promptly with medical intervention and supportive skincare can help mitigate these long-term effects.

What Causes Cystic Acne?

The exact cause of cystic acne is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. These include:

Hormones

Hormones, particularly androgens like testosterone, play a pivotal role in the development of cystic acne. During puberty, hormonal fluctuations can increase sebum production by the sebaceous glands and lead to oily skin. This excess sebum and dead skin cells can clog pores and create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, ultimately forming cystic acne. Additionally, hormonal imbalances seen in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can further exacerbate acne issues.

Genetics

Individuals with a family history of severe acne are more likely to develop cystic acne themselves. If your parents or siblings have experienced this condition, you may be more genetically predisposed to it. Genetic factors can influence the skin’s response to hormonal changes and the immune system’s reaction to acne-causing bacteria, which are crucial in developing cystic acne.

Medications

Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, antidepressants, and certain types of oral contraceptives, can exacerbate acne. It’s essential to consult a medical practitioner if you notice a correlation between your medication and worsening acne. Adjusting the dosage of prescription medications or switching to an alternative treatment might help mitigate these side effects. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Diet

While research is ongoing, some studies suggest a potential link between high glycemic index foods, dairy products, and acne. Foods like sugary snacks, white bread, and dairy may trigger hormonal changes that increase sebum production and inflammation, which may worsen acne. A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins might help manage acne symptoms. Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods can also be beneficial.

Stress

Stress is known to exacerbate many skin conditions, including acne. When stressed, your body produces more cortisol and other stress hormones, which can lead to hormonal imbalances that contribute to the development of cystic acne. Practising stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep can help keep stress levels in check and may improve your skin’s condition.

What are the Risk Factors for Cystic Acne?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing cystic acne:

  • Age: Acne is most commonly observed in teenagers and young adults due to the hormonal changes during puberty. However, cystic acne can also persist into adulthood.
  • Sex: Acne tends to be more prevalent in males. Men secrete much more oil because they produce higher levels of testosterone. Fluctuations in testosterone levels increase sebum production, and when this excess sebum combines with a clogged follicle, it leads to bacterial overgrowth, which causes inflammation and acne breakouts.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This condition affects hormone levels, leading to symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, and an increased risk of developing cystic acne.
  • Occupations: Jobs that expose individuals to oil, grease, or other industrial chemicals can exacerbate acne. This is often observed in occupations such as kitchen staff, mechanics, and oil industry workers.

How to Treat Cystic Acne

Treating cystic acne requires a multifaceted approach, often involving topical and oral medications and other treatments. Here’s a comprehensive look at the available acne treatment options:

Topical Medications

  • Benzoyl Peroxide: An effective treatment that targets bacteria and reduces inflammation, making it a popular choice for mild to moderate acne. It is available in various forms, such as cleansers, creams, and gels.
  • Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives help prevent clogged pores by promoting cell turnover and are often used to treat acne and signs of ageing. They can come in prescription and over-the-counter strengths. Common retinoids that are used include Adapalene, Epiduo, and tretinoin creams.
  • Salicylic Acid: Works by exfoliating the skin and unclogging pores. It is commonly found in face washes, spot treatments, and pads, making it a versatile option for many skin types.
  • Short-term Antibiotics: Used to reduce bacteria and inflammation. These are typically prescribed for a short duration to avoid antibiotic resistance and are often used alongside other treatments.

Oral Medications

  • Long-term Antibiotics: Help control bacterial growth and inflammation. These are usually prescribed for severe acne and are often combined with topical treatments for a more comprehensive approach.
  • Oral Contraceptives: Effective for women with hormonal imbalances, these medications help regulate hormones that can trigger acne. They are often prescribed after consulting with a healthcare provider to ensure suitability.
  • Isotretinoin: This potent medication is specifically reserved for severe cases that do not respond to other treatments. Due to its potential side effects and the necessity for close monitoring, it is typically prescribed by healthcare professionals at specialised clinics, such as Lux Medical Aesthetic Clinic.

Other Treatments

  • Corticosteroid Injections: Used for severe cysts to reduce inflammation quickly. A doctor administers this treatment, providing rapid relief from painful, deep acne lesions.
  • Light Therapy: Utilises specific wavelengths of light to reduce bacteria and inflammation. Different types of light therapy, such as blue and red, target various aspects of acne and are often used in conjunction with other treatments for optimal results.
  • Carbon Laser: Carbon laser treatment can be used to help reduce the amount of bacteria on the skin surface and also to help reduce acne. This laser treatment requires no downtime and is recommended to be done every two weeks.

How to Prevent Cystic Acne

Preventing cystic acne involves maintaining a consistent skincare routine and adopting healthy lifestyle practices. Here are some detailed steps to help you manage and prevent cystic acne:

  • Skincare Routine: Use gentle cleansers and oil-free moisturisers tailored to your skin type. Opt for products that are non-comedogenic and free of harsh chemicals. Avoid harsh scrubs and irritants that can aggravate the skin, as they can cause further inflammation and breakouts. Consider incorporating products with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help reduce acne. Opt for an oil-free sunscreen to prevent unnecessary clogging of pores.
  • Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to give your skin essential nutrients. Foods high in antioxidants and vitamins can promote healthier skin. Monitor any dietary triggers that may exacerbate acne, such as dairy products or high-glycemic foods, and consider reducing their intake if they worsen your condition. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is crucial for maintaining clear skin.
  • Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine. Managing stress is important because stress can trigger hormonal changes that lead to acne flare-ups. Additionally, getting adequate sleep each night helps the body repair and regenerate skin cells, contributing to overall skin health.

By following these steps and making mindful choices about your skincare and lifestyle, you can better manage cystic acne and maintain clearer, healthier skin over time.

Conclusion

Cystic acne is challenging but can be managed effectively with the right approach. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for achieving clear skin and maintaining a positive self-image.

Remember, managing cystic acne is a journey. With persistence and the right support, clear skin is attainable. Consider booking a consultation with a medical practitioner for cystic acne treatment or visiting Lux Medical Aesthetic Clinic for personalised advice and treatments.

Stay positive and proactive in your skincare routine, and enjoy the confidence of healthy, clear skin.

What is Acne: 4 Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage

Acne is a common skin condition that many experience at some point, especially during adolescence. Its impact extends beyond physical appearance, often affecting self-esteem and overall well-being. This guide will cover acne, its causes, symptoms, types, and various treatment options. It aims to provide valuable information to those affected by acne, helping them better understand the condition and explore ways to manage and treat it.

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It is most prevalent among teenagers, though it can affect people of all ages. Acne appears in various forms, including whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and cystic acne lesions.

According to a study in Singapore, 88% of teenagers report experiencing some form of hormonal acne themselves. This statistic highlights how common the condition is.

Impact on Self-Esteem

Acne can affect one’s self-esteem and mental health. Many individuals with acne report feeling self-conscious or anxious about their appearance, often avoiding social interactions and public events. This emotional toll can lead to feelings of isolation and depression, making it a critical factor to consider when discussing acne and its treatment.

Addressing acne’s physical and psychological aspects is essential for providing comprehensive care and support to those affected.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Acne?

Acne symptoms vary, but they typically include several common indicators. These can range from mild to moderate severity and may appear differently depending on the individual. Some common signs of acne include:

  • Whiteheads: These are closed plugged pores that appear as small, white bumps on the skin’s surface.
  • Blackheads: These are open plugged pores that look dark on the surface due to the oxidation of trapped debris.
  • Papules: These are small, red, tender bumps that form when hair follicles become inflamed or infected.
  • Pustules: These are pimples with pus at their tips, often resulting from a pore infection.
  • Nodules: These are large, solid, painful lumps located deep beneath the skin’s surface, often caused by severe inflammation.
  • Cysts: These are painful, pus-filled lumps beneath the skin’s surface, usually resulting from severe infections and can lead to scarring.

What Causes Acne?

Several factors contribute to the development of acne, including:

Excess Oil Production (Sebum)

The sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. This natural oil helps to keep the skin moisturised and protected. However, when sebum is produced in excess, it can mix with dead skin cells and other debris, clogging pores and developing acne.

This can result in various forms of acne, such as black and whiteheads or more severe inflammatory lesions. Good skincare and hygiene can help manage sebum production and reduce the risk of clogged pores.

Clogged Pores with Dead Skin Cells

Dead skin cells can accumulate on the skin’s surface and mix with excess oil, leading to clogged pores. This buildup and skin irritation can result in various skin issues, including acne, blackheads, and dull complexion. Regular exfoliation and proper skincare routines are essential to remove these dead cells and maintain healthy, clear skin.

Bacterial Growth

Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) can grow in clogged pores and thrive in an oxygen-poor environment. This growth often leads to inflammation, causing the immune system to react and forming pimples and other acne-related symptoms. Understanding the role of P. acnes helps in developing acne treatments.

Woman with acne

Inflammation

The inflammatory response in the skin can cause redness (skin discoloration), swelling, and pain, further exacerbating acne. This inflammation often occurs when pores become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, forming pimples, cysts, and other blemishes.

Over time, the persistent inflammation can damage the skin and contribute to scarring, making it essential to manage both the inflammation and the underlying causes of acne.

What are the Risk Factors for Acne?

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing acne:

  • Age: Teenagers and young adults are more prone to acne due to hormonal changes that occur during puberty. These hormonal shifts can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores, the primary causes of acne.
  • Hormonal Changes: Puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy can trigger hormonal fluctuations that lead to acne. For example, elevated levels of androgens during puberty stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin, resulting in more oil production and potential breakouts.
  • Genetics: A family history of acne increases the likelihood of developing the condition. If your parents or close relatives had acne, you may be genetically predisposed to experiencing similar skin issues.
  • Certain Medications: Drugs containing corticosteroids, androgens, or lithium can cause severe acne. These medications may alter hormone levels or affect the skin’s oil production, leading to breakouts.
  • Diet: High glycemic foods might contribute to acne, though research is ongoing. Foods that cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels can increase insulin levels, which may, in turn, boost oil production and inflammation in the skin.

Stress: Stress can worsen acne by increasing hormone levels that stimulate oil production. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol and other stress-related hormones, which can lead to more oil production and clogged pores.

Types of Acne

illustration of types of acne

Comedonal Acne

Comedonal acne primarily consists of blackheads and whiteheads. Blackheads, or open comedones, appear when pores are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The pore’s surface remains open, and the accumulated substances oxidise, turning black.

Whiteheads, or closed comedones, form when the clogged pore closes up, creating a small bump under the skin. Both types of comedonal acne are non-inflammatory and generally less severe than other forms of acne.

Inflammatory Acne

Inflammatory acne includes papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, typically characterised by redness, swelling, and pain:

  • Papules: Small, red, tender bumps that occur when the walls surrounding the pores break down due to severe inflammation.
  • Pustules: Pimples containing pus at their tips. They appear red at the base with a white or yellow head.
  • Nodules: Large, solid, and often painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface. Nodules can be more challenging to treat because they form deeper within the skin.
  • Cysts: Painful, pus-filled lumps akin to nodules, but cysts are filled with pus. They can cause significant scarring due to their severity and depth within the skin.

Each type of inflammatory acne varies in severity and requires different treatment approaches to manage effectively.

When to See a Professional

Consulting a medical or aesthetic practitioner is recommended in the following situations:

  • Severe or cystic acne
  • Persistent acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
  • Acne that leads to scarring or dark spots
  • Emotional distress due to acne

How Can You Manage Acne?

In addition to prescribed treatments, some self-care methods can help manage and prevent acne breakouts.

  • Gentle Cleansing Routine: Wash your face twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Avoid over-washing, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and increase oil production. Using lukewarm water instead of hot water can also help prevent further irritation and dryness.
  • Non-comedogenic Skincare Products: Use products labelled as non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores. This includes moisturisers, sunscreens, and makeup. Look for products containing beneficial ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid for hydration or niacinamide for soothing inflammation.
  • Avoiding Harsh Scrubs and Irritants: Avoid abrasive scrubs and ingredients that irritate the skin, such as alcohol-based products and fragrances. These can exacerbate acne and lead to further inflammation. Instead, opt for gentle exfoliants like salicylic acid or lactic acid, which can help to clear pores without irritating them.
  • Reducing Stress: Incorporate stress-management techniques into your daily routine, such as yoga, meditation, or adequate sleep. Lowering stress levels can help balance hormone levels and reduce breakouts. Practising mindfulness or engaging in hobbies you enjoy can contribute to overall mental well-being, which may also reflect in your skin.
girl applying cream to her face

Maintaining a Healthy Diet: Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Avoid high glycemic index foods and processed items, as they can spike insulin levels and potentially worsen acne. Additionally, consider incorporating probiotics, as emerging research suggests they positively impact skin health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, can also support skin health by reducing inflammation.

Conclusion

Acne is a common yet complex condition that affects many individuals, especially young adults. Understanding the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options is crucial in managing acne effectively. While over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes can help, seeking advice from a professional is beneficial.

If you’re struggling with acne, remember that you are not alone, and there are various ways to manage and treat the condition. Take the first step in managing your skin health by exploring available treatment options and consulting a professional for advice.