Causes and Types of Acne

Causes and Types of Acne

Pimples are a more common problem during teenage years and often occur when hormonal levels increase in the body. Acne is a persistent, inflammatory skin condition that causes pimples and whiteheads. They can occur on the face, back, neck, shoulders, upper arms, and chest. Many acne sufferers turn to natural remedies (i.e., tea tree oil, etc.) to help stop the persistent problem of acne. The different types of acne are explained in more detail below:

1. Whiteheads
Whiteheads are small and remain under the skin. These types of acne are not inflamed like other types. Whiteheads can be seen when skin cells, bacteria, and oil combine to create a white tip of oil skin mixture. It appears like a small pimple without any inflammation and redness around the area.

2. Blackheads
Blackheads are visible on the skin and they are not inflamed like papules. They are formed when plugs which clog the pores are found at the top surface of the skin. They do not contain dirt stuck in pores as that is a common misunderstanding. Natural acne cures can stop the formation of blackheads.

3. Papules and pustules
Papules are small pink bumps that are visible on the skin. They are clogged pores which become infected. This infection creates a white pus-filled tip on top of the affected pore. The area around this affected pore becomes inflamed, red, and sensitive. Pustules are visible on the skin and are red at their base. They have a white substance on the top of the pimple. This type of pimple is quite common in teenagers and adults.

4. Nodules and cysts
Nodules are clearly visible on the skin. These are large, solid, and painful pimples which are embedded deep inside the skin. Natural acne cures can solve the problem of nodules. Cysts are painful pimples that can cause scars. They are filled with pus, a white substance which sits on the top of the pimple. These are also clearly visible on the skin.

5. Treatments of acne
There are different kinds of treatments for every type of acne problem. Treatments for curing acne are given below:

  • Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide targets the surface bacteria which aggravates acne. Irritation and dryness is a common side effect.
  • Retinoids: Retinoids are useful in treating blackheads and whiteheads which are the first lesions of acne. The common side effect is irritation and itchiness. Natural acne cures are more effective when it comes to treating acne.
  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics are taken orally or are applied to the skin topically. They reduce inflammation in the skin by controlling the surface bacteria. The effectiveness of antibiotics can be seen when combined with retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. Side effects include dry skin, birth defects, triglycerides, and elevated cholesterol.
  • Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is helpful for some women, those who have the signs and symptoms of androgen excess. It consists of low doses of estrogen and progesterone or anti-androgen medications.

The above treatments can cure the problem of acne but come with side effects which are not in the case of natural cures. Natural cures are safe and easily available at home. They are not expensive like other cures.