When it comes to acne, there is a lot of information to take in. Many teens and young adults simply skip over this information and instead head straight for any product that promises to help with their affliction. But educating one's self on acne is extremely important if an acne fighting routine is to be successfully implemented.

Types Of Acne You May Encounter

One of the most prevalent forms of acne is the blackhead. A blackhead is created when a pore on one's face is partially blocked. Because it is only partially blocked, the pore will excrement oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. It should be noted that the black dot is from a reaction of oxygen with the skin- this is not dirt or a sign of one's poor hygiene. Blackheads will, on average, last longer than whiteheads.

The whitehead is similar to the blackhead, except that it completely blocks the pore and contains a white colored head. Bacteria and sebum are completely trapped under the skin in this case, which makes the appearance of a white tip. Whiteheads generally don't last as long as blackheads, and are usually more unsightly in appearance.

Next we have papules, which are inflammations on the skin that contain no "heads." Instead, these lesions only appear as a red mark that can often be large in size. It is important to not squeeze papules, as it will do no good. In fact, squeezing a papule often results in scarring or further inflammation that takes longer to alleviate had it not been tampered with.

Pustules are much like papules, but they differ from them in the sense that they contain a white head to them. They carry the same red inflammation that papules hold, yet also combine the effects of whiteheads. This type of acne is generally quite common among those who do indeed have acne. This type of acne in particular can easily lead to scarring if cared for recklessly.

How To Handle The Different Types Of Acne

For whiteheads and blackheads, it is generally not advised to further inflame or bother the affected area. These smaller lesions on the skin generally go away by themselves without much harm. Whiteheads are generally more noticeable, however, and proper care should be taken if trying to tamper with them.

Papules and pustules are a different story, as they can often be on the face for a couple of weeks if care is not taken. Papules should never be tampered with. Pustules, like whiteheads, can often be unsightly and require more immediate action.

When trying to cure one's self of a whitehead or pustule, be sure to do so in a very clean manner. Do not force the acne to excrement the white or yellow middle- and be sure to take care if this procedure must take place. Knowing these basic four types of acne and how to get rid of them will better arm you with knowledge in which to fight one's acne with- and have clearer skin as a result.