One of the more common types of acne, the blackhead, is something just about everyone has experienced. The black dot that forms is actually not dirt, but rather a reaction to the skin and oxygen as the pore is partially blocked. Since the pore is only partially blocked, the pore will still excrement sebum and bacteria. The blackhead usually lasts longer than a whitehead would in the same situation.

Similarly, we have the whitehead that is quite close to the blackhead in composition. The whitehead actually blocks the entire pore- not just partially like the blackhead. Oil and bacteria is trapped under the skin, which also gives whiteheads their distinctive color and shape. Whiteheads will usually last longer than blackheads on average.

The papule is another type of acne. The papule doesn't contain a head to it, and is usually just a red mark on the skin. Papules are generally fairly painful and large in size. It should be noted that one should never squeeze a papule, as it will only get further infected and scarring may result. Instead, one should either wait the papule out or consult a doctor for a cortisone treatment.

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.

Solutions To Fixing The Different Acne Types

Blackheads and whiteheads are generally small enough to avoid any contact with. In fact, acne sufferers often created a worse case scenario when tampering with them by turning them into pustules or papules. To avoid the swelling and inflammation that comes with the tampering of these types of acne, try to ignore them as much as possible.

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.

If you must extract the contents of any type of acne type, be sure to do so under sterile conditions. Do not force any of the excrement- try to drain the acne as easily as possible. Taking careful steps in the draining process will help ensure that no infection or inflammation spreads. In the end, educating yourself on these four types of acne will help you target your daily acne fighting regime and increase your knowledge on acne in general.