Types of Acne

While the word “acne” is often used in general, not many of us are aware of the fact that acne is actually a disease of various different types. Three major types of acne are as under:


- Acne Vulgaris

Acne Vulgaris is the most common type of acne and is characterized as a superficial disease that affects the hair follicles and oil secreting glands of the skin. The exact cause is unknown, although genetics, hormonal dysfunction, and over-secretion of sebum are strongly implicated. Risk factors include cosmetics, stress, steroids and other drugs, oral contraceptives, mechanical skin irritants, and climate. This form of acne usually begins in puberty and affects about 80% of adolescents in some form. Males are affected more often; however, females have more severe and more prolonged cases. It manifests as blackheads, whiteheads and inflammation (redness).

Acne Vulgaris is the least severe form of acne. When we simply refer to ‘acne”, we almost always mean “acne Vulgaris”. This type of acne is common under the skin on the face, neck, chest, or upper back.


- Acne Rosacea

Acne Rosacea is a common skin problem often called “adult acne.” It is a chronic (long-term, progressive) acne-like eruption on the face of middle aged and older adults associated with facial flushing. Faired skinned and menopausal women are more likely to have Rosacea. Rosacea also seems to run in families. It causes redness in the center parts of the face and pimples. Blood vessels under the skin of the face may enlarge and show through the skin as small red lines. The skin may be swollen and feel warm.

Women with Rosacea don’t have the same lesions as seen with common acne. They may have flushing of the face, when they are hot, drink alcohol or hot drinks, or eat spicy foods. This flushing causes the face to appear red. In the most severe form, this redness does not go away. The eyes may become swollen and nodules in the skin may be painful.


- Acne Conglobata

Acne Conglobata is a more severe form with cyst formation and subsequent scarring. The causes of Acne Conglobata are still unknown. However, most health practitioners are of opinion that it is related to the genetics (family history). Chromosomal defects are responsible for this acne. Most patients inherit it from their parents. Certain elements are known to trigger this acne. Toxic gases like halogens and dioxins and anabolic steroids can cause severe acne in some people. Discontinuing a course of testosterone may also trigger it. It is characterized by swelling and pain in the lesions with severe inflammation and sensitivity are the common symptoms of this acne. The cysts may erupt and the lesions ooze out also. Acne Conglobata needs time to heal.

With different types of acne present, it is often difficult to distinguish between these without the help of your doctor.