Acne is more than just an occasional pimple—it’s a complex skin condition that affects millions of people of all ages. At Skin101, we believe the first step to clear skin is understanding what kind of acne you’re dealing with. Not all breakouts are the same, and knowing the difference can help you get the right treatment.
Here’s a breakdown of the main types of acne, how they look, and what causes them.
1. Whiteheads (Closed Comedones)
These are small, flesh-colored or white bumps under the skin.
Cause: Clogged pores with oil and dead skin that stay closed at the surface.
Common Areas: Face, especially the T-zone.
2. Blackheads (Open Comedones)
These look like tiny black dots on the skin.
Cause: Similar to whiteheads, but the pore stays open, and the surface darkens due to oxidation—not dirt.
Common Areas: Nose, chin, forehead.
3. Papules
These are small, red, inflamed bumps that may feel sore to the touch.
Cause: Bacteria, oil, and dead skin cause inflammation in the pores.
Common Areas: Cheeks, forehead, jawline.
4. Pustules
These are like papules but contain pus. They appear as red bumps with a white or yellow center.
Cause: Inflammatory response to clogged pores and bacterial activity.
Common Areas: Face, back, shoulders.
5. Nodules
These are deep, hard, painful lumps under the skin.
Cause: Severe inflammation deep within the skin, often hormonal or genetic.
Common Areas: Jawline, neck, back.
6. Cysts
These are large, pus-filled lesions that can be painful and lead to scarring.
Cause: Deep infections in the skin. Often hormonal in nature.
Common Areas: Chin, jawline, back.
7. Fungal Acne (Malassezia Folliculitis)
Often mistaken for traditional acne, this type consists of small, itchy bumps.
Cause: Overgrowth of yeast in hair follicles.
Common Areas: Chest, back, shoulders.
Final Thoughts
Each type of acne needs a tailored approach. Whether it’s mild comedonal acne or more severe cystic acne, the right diagnosis can change everything.
At Skin101, we combine dermatological expertise with compassionate care. If you’re struggling with acne, book a consultation with Dr. Tanvi Komawar to start your personalized skincare journey.