Types of Acne

Acne is a complex skin condition with various forms. Here, we outline the most common types.

Non-Inflammatory Acne

• Blackheads: Open pores clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
• Whiteheads: Closed pores filled with oil and dead skin cells.

Inflammatory Acne

• Papules: Small, red, tender bumps caused by inflamed hair follicles.
• Pustules: Papules containing pus.
• Nodules: Large, painful, solid lumps beneath the skin.
• Cysts: Deep, pus-filled lumps that cause significant inflammation and scarring.

Acne Severity

Acne is often categorized based on severity:

• Mild Acne: Primarily blackheads and whiteheads with a few papules and pustules.
• Moderate Acne: Increased number of papules and pustules.
• Severe Acne: Numerous inflamed nodules and cysts.
• Acne Conglobata: A severe form with interconnected nodules and abscesses.
• Acne Mechanica: Acne caused by friction or pressure, often from sports equipment or backpacks.

Cystic acne is a severe form of inflammatory acne characterized by painful, pus-filled cysts that can cause scarring.

Understanding your acne type is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. Our Advanced Dermatology, P.C. dermatologists can accurately diagnose your acne and recommend the best course of action.

Typically caused by bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes for short), acne causes great distress to those affected and its treatment requires great patience. Researchers are constantly finding and testing new treatment methods; one such method is the virus bacteriophage (phage for short). Can this be another treatment option for acne patients?

One Bacterium, Multiple Uses

Researchers studied the effects of 11 different types of phages on P. acnes. The majority of those phages were successful in killing P. acnes bacteria. Since P. acnes phages can only kill P. acnes bacteria, they may eventually be a useful ingredient in a topical acne therapy. These phages also contain enzymes that break down the cell walls of acne-causing bacteria, another option which may be applied to acne treatments. At this time, the phages are being further researched to determine whether they are indeed a viable acne treatment option.

Other Treatment Options

Think acne and you think “teenager.” Think again: Researchers believe that acnes is present in up to 54% of adult women and in 40% of adult men. The bad news is that half of the affected women don’t respond to traditional therapy, such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and antibiotics. The good news is that today’s technological advances have made it possible to dramatically lessen eliminate acne and acne scars using alternative means such as lasers, chemical peels and vitamins.
“For people who can’t or don’t like to take medication or for whom standard treatments don’t work, lasers and peels can produce a very pleasing and long-lasting result,” says Joshua Fox, MD, a leading NY dermatologist and founder of Advanced Dermatology and The Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery.

Acne, according to one theory is caused by skin cells that do not shed properly and plug pores, causing oil and bacteria to be trapped inside. As the oil and bacteria accumulates, the skin becomes inflamed and pushes up, forming the dreaded zits and blackheads. The most common type of acne shows up on the face, neck, shoulders, back, and chest.

“Each case is different and patients should discuss the right type of acne intervention for their situation with their dermatologist, ” adds Dr. Fox. “Some considerations to keep in mind when evaluating the options are that laser and chemical treatments are less messy than the daily application of creams and lotions, and unlike oral antibiotics medications, they are non-systemic,” Dr. Fox adds. Following are some of the most popular non-medication acne treatments to consider for acne:

Chemical Peels
A chemical solution is applied to the skin, which strips away dead skin cells. A light peel – which penetrates only the top skin layers — can lessen acne pimples, and decrease the size of large pores. This is done in the dermatologist’s office, and may leave some redness and peeling for a few days.

Laser Therapy
Aura TM Laser targets acne pustules, leaving only mild to moderate redness and swelling that will fade quickly. A prospective clinical study indicates that over 90% of patients treated experience marked reduction in acne lesions.

V-BeamTM or Blue Light, a pulse dye laser, works well with mild to moderate acne. It selectively eliminates the small blood vessels that are associated with the inflammation “redness.” With these vessels gone, the acne is more controlled. After one or two treatments of about fifteen minutes each, patients should see results in a month. Amino levulinic acid (ALA) can be utilized with this laser to maximize results. There is no downtime, only some redness or swelling for 1 day.

VBeamTM treats the bacteria that cause acne, as well as the redness and swelling that often comes along with the condition. Result? Clear, blemish-free skin. Delivering the safety and efficacy of the clinically proven pulsed dye laser, VBeam also minimizes post-operative bruising seen with earlier pulsed dye lasers.

SmoothbeamTM is a new, noninvasive laser treatment that targets and heats collagen in the upper dermis while protecting the epidermis. This laser is the first device specifically designed to target the root cause of acne, the sebaceous gland. With a patented cooling device that makes the procedure relatively discomfort-free, it also safely improves acne scars. A typical treatment will take between ten and thirty minutes, depending on the severity of the case; several treatments may be necessary. There is no downtime.

Fraxel
Quantum IPL ® restores skins youthful appearance through a gentle, nonablative process that applies broad-spectrum lights to sun-damaged skin. It removes age-spots and broken capillaries.
Vitamin – Nicomide ® This new prescription medication is a vitamin which has nicotinamide, zinc, copper and folic acid ingredients which seem to help inflammatory acne. In some patients it may take place of oral antibiotics.

In addition to the treatments listed above, our experienced team can create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and help you achieve clear, confident skin, supported by our before and after acne treatment results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about acne? You’re not alone. Find answers to common questions about causes, treatments, and prevention here.

What is the best way to get rid of acne?

The best way to treat acne depends on its severity. Mild acne can often be managed with over-the-counter products, while moderate to severe acne may require prescription medications or in-office treatments. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for personalized advice.

Is there anything I can do to prevent acne?

Preventing acne involves gentle skin care, avoiding pore-clogging products, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet. However, it’s important to note that acne can be influenced by various factors, and complete prevention may not be possible for everyone.

Can infants get acne?

Yes, infants can develop acne, often due to hormonal imbalances. This temporary condition usually clears up on its own within a few weeks or months. If it persists, consult a pediatrician.

What is Aczone Gel?

Aczone Gel (dapsone) is a prescription acne treatment for individuals aged 12 and older. Applied once or twice daily, it helps reduce acne breakouts by targeting inflammation and bacteria.

What Aczone Gel is?

Acne has held you back long enough, now it’s time to take charge of your life and your skin. We’re excited to offer Allergan’s Aczone Dapsone Gel, 7.5% for individuals aged 12 and older looking forward to a clearer future. The gel is meant to help you maintain a consistent skin care regimen and can be prescribed by your dermatologist after a thorough assessment.

The topical formulation is a once or twice a day treatment which fights acne at its source. Being afflicted with acne may seem like a life sentence, but we have a strategy which makes breakouts seem like a thing of the past. The truth is, acne is preventable and we can reduce your symptoms with the correct treatment plan.

What are acne scars?

Acne scars are permanent indentations or raised areas on the skin caused by past acne breakouts.

What causes acne scars?

Acne scars form when inflamed acne damages the underlying skin tissue, leading to abnormal scar tissue formation.

Can acne scars be treated at home?

While some home remedies may improve overall skin health, treating acne scars typically requires professional treatments.

What methods of treating acne scars can a dermatologist offer me?

Dermatologists offer various acne scar treatments, including laser resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, and dermal fillers.

Will treating my acne scars really make a difference?

Yes, treating acne scars can significantly improve your skin’s appearance and boost your confidence.

Why choose Advanced Dermatology?

Advanced Dermatology, P.C. offers comprehensive acne scar treatments tailored to individual needs, with experienced dermatologists providing personalized care and advanced techniques.