Types of facial acne and the best ways to treat them: Your comprehensive guide to clear skin

 Facial acne is not just a passing skin problem; it's a clear message from your skin indicating a hormonal imbalance or an unbalanced skincare routine. It may appear suddenly, recur persistently at the same time, or leave deeper scars than mere pimples, transforming into both an aesthetic and psychological challenge. Therefore, facial acne varies in its appearance, severity, and location, and the methods for treating it differ from one skin type to another.

From this perspective, dealing with facial acne becomes a journey of awareness before it becomes a skincare routine. It's a journey that begins with understanding the types of facial acne and their causes, then moving on to choosing scientifically sound and well-considered treatment methods that respect the skin's balance, preserve the skin barrier, and provide gradual and sustainable results, avoiding harsh or temporary solutions.

In the following lines, Sayidaty reveals the types of facial acne and the best ways to treat them, with practical and applicable steps, steering clear of quick fixes that often exacerbate the problem.

What is facial acne? And why does it differ from one skin type to another?

Facial acne is a common skin problem resulting from a combination of reactions within pores caused by excess sebum, a buildup of dead skin cells, or bacterial activity. The appearance, severity, and location of acne vary from person to person, depending on a complex interplay of factors that directly influence skin behavior. Skin type plays a significant role in acne formation; oily and combination skin are more prone to clogged pores, while sensitive skin may experience acne due to allergies or unexpected reactions. Hormonal changes are also a major contributing factor, particularly during adolescence, menstruation, pregnancy, or chronic stress, which can increase sebum production and disrupt the skin's natural balance.

Furthermore, diet and lifestyle play a crucial role. Certain foods, lack of sleep, and psychological stress can all contribute to the development or worsening of acne. An incorrect or excessive skincare routine, whether through over-exfoliation or using unsuitable skincare products, can weaken the skin barrier and trigger defensive reactions that manifest as acne.

Types of Facial Acne: And How to Treat Them?

Not all acne is the same; each type conveys a different message from the skin. Understanding these types and identifying their specific type is the first step toward choosing the appropriate treatment without harming the skin.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads are among the most common types of facial acne. They appear as small, closed pimples beneath the skin's surface, white or skin-colored. They are often non-inflammatory and painless, making them seem minor, but they can become a chronic problem if neglected. Whiteheads are particularly prevalent on the forehead and chin, where sebum production is higher and pores are more prone to blockage. The main reason for their appearance is the blockage of pores with sebum and dead skin cells without exposure to air. This prevents oxidation and keeps them sealed under the skin. With repeated blockages, these blemishes multiply and gradually mar the complexion.

How to treat whiteheads: Gently cleanse twice daily using a cleanser that respects the skin barrier and doesn't strip the skin of its natural oils. Use products containing a mild concentration of salicylic acid, which helps cleanse pores from within without irritating the skin. Perform a mild chemical peel once a week to remove dead cells and prevent re-blockage, avoiding over-exfoliation which can be counterproductive.

Blackheads: Blackheads are among the most common types of facial blemishes and appear as dark, open pores. These blemishes occur when pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. When the pores open and this sebum is exposed to air, oxidation occurs, causing it to darken. Blackheads are particularly common on the nose, forehead, and chin. This is where pores are larger and sebum production is higher. Although they are not inflamed, neglecting them or treating them harshly can turn them into more complex, inflamed pimples.

How to treat blackheads:

Use BHA exfoliants, which help penetrate pores and dissolve deep-seated sebum.

Apply clay masks once a week to help absorb excess oil and purify pores.

Avoid harsh manual squeezing, as this can cause inflammation or permanent enlargement of pores.

Inflammatory pimples: Inflammatory pimples (papules and pustules) appear as raised red bumps and may be painful to the touch. In some cases, they develop a whitehead, at which point they are known as pustules. These pimples occur when buildup within the pores interacts with bacteria, leading to noticeable skin inflammation. They are often aggravated by picking or squeezing, which increases inflammation and the risk of scarring later. This type of acne requires careful attention because over-drying or using harsh ingredients can disrupt the skin's balance and prolong the healing process.

How to treat inflammatory acne:

A woman applies a serum to her face to treat her acne.

Use skincare products containing niacinamide to soothe the skin and reduce redness.

Use benzoyl peroxide, in a carefully measured concentration, to eliminate acne-causing bacteria without damaging the skin.

Avoid over-drying, as stressed skin produces more oil as a defense mechanism.

Subcutaneous acne: Subcutaneous acne is one of the most bothersome types of acne. It is not clearly visible on the surface but feels like a hard, painful lump when touched. These acne forms in deeper layers of the skin due to severe pore blockage and inflammation.