Common Types of Acne
Acne can manifest in several forms, each with distinct characteristics and severity levels. Here’s a closer look at the most common types of acne:
Acne Vulgaris
Acne Vulgaris is the most common form of acne, particularly among teenagers and young adults. It includes various types of pimples, such as whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed bumps. This type of acne occurs when dead skin cells, oil from the sebaceous glands, and bacteria clog the hair follicles, leading to the development of acne lesions.
•Whiteheads and Blackheads: These are noninflammatory acne lesions. Whiteheads are closed comedones that appear as small, white bumps on the skin surface. Blackheads are open comedones that appear as dark bumps due to the oxidation of melanin.
Inflammatory Acne
Inflammatory acne is characterised by red, swollen, and tender bumps on the skin. This type of acne is caused by the body’s immune response to clogged pores and bacterial infection, leading to inflamed and often painful lesions.
•Papules: Small, red, tender bumps without pus.
•Pustules: Red bumps filled with pus, commonly known as pimples.
•Nodules: Large, painful bumps that develop deep within the skin.
•Cystic Acne: A severe form of acne with deep, pus-filled cysts that can lead to permanent scarring if not treated properly.
Comedonal Acne
Comedonal acne is a form of noninflammatory acne primarily characterised by whiteheads and blackheads. It often appears on the forehead, chin, and nose, where oil glands are most active. This type of acne is typically caused by excess oil production and the accumulation of dead skin cells.
Nodulocystic Acne
Nodulocystic acne is a severe type of acne that involves the presence of both nodules and cysts. This condition is painful and can cause significant emotional distress due to its severity and the potential for permanent scarring. It requires aggressive treatment to prevent long-term skin damage.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne, also known as adult acne, is linked to hormonal fluctuations, particularly during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. It often appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks. Hormonal acne can range from mild to severe and is often persistent, requiring targeted treatments.
Acne Conglobata
Acne Conglobata is one of the most severe types of acne. It is characterised by large, interconnected nodules and cysts that form beneath the skin. This condition can lead to significant scarring and requires immediate and aggressive treatment.
Fungal Acne
Fungal acne, also known as Malassezia folliculitis, is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the hair follicles. It appears as small, itchy, and uniform pustules, often mistaken for bacterial acne. Fungal acne requires specific treatments different from those used for bacterial acne.
Acne Mechanica
Acne Mechanica is caused by friction, heat, and pressure on the skin, often due to clothing, sports equipment, or heavy backpacks. This type of acne is common among athletes and can be managed by reducing friction and using appropriate skincare.
Effective Treatment Options at PHI Clinic
At PHI Clinic, we offer advanced and effective treatments tailored to the specific type and severity of acne. Our approach ensures that patients with acne receive the most appropriate care, resulting in successful treatment outcomes.
Our acne treatments
AviClear - the acne treatment that lasts
As the first UK clinic to introduce AviClear in 2023, we use this FDA-cleared energy device to treat mild, moderate and severe acne. This multi award-winning device treats acne at the source, clearing skin by targeting and suppressing sebaceous glands. Our skin specialists are highly trained to treat acne with AviClear, creating never-seen-before results.
Treatment can target symptoms of acne below the surface of the skin that treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can't quite target.
Obagi acne treatment
With a skincare line created for acne, Obagi is a highly effective treatment. A-List-celebrity-approved, Obagi has been providing effective skincare for over 35 years.
Our skin specialists use the Obagi Nu-Derm System a prescription-strength skincare system, to transform the skin. This advanced technology works wonders for the skin as it transforms the skin at a cellular level. After the treatment, your skin is able to better hold moisture in and your skin is left looking refreshed. You’ll leave our clinic glowing, both inside and out.
Skincare for acne
When it comes to skincare for acne, our specialists are some of the best around. With extensive skincare ranges, we’ll create the perfect skincare plan for you.
It’s so important to get your skincare right. So our skincare specialists will recommend the best products and treatments, tailored to your skin’s unique needs, during your consultation.
Understanding the different types of acne is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment. At PHI Clinic, Dr. Tapan Patel and his team offer advanced, personalised treatments to help patients achieve healthy skin. Whether you’re dealing with mild acne, severe cystic acne, or persistent adult acne, our clinic provides innovative solutions like AviClear and Obagi to address your specific needs.
