Understanding different types of acne

There are two main types of acne: inflammatory and non-inflammatory. Understanding the differences between these two types of acne is important for effective self-care and treatment.

• Inflammatory acne is caused by the body’s immune response to bacteria that have become trapped in the hair follicles. This results in the formation of red, swollen pimples and cysts that can be painful and cause scarring. Inflammatory acne is often more severe than non-inflammatory acne and requires medical treatment. Common types of inflammatory acne include papules, pustules, and cysts.
• Non-inflammatory acne, on the other hand, is caused by the build-up of oil and dead skin cells in the hair follicles. This results in the formation of blackheads and whiteheads, which are not painful and do not cause scarring. Non-inflammatory acne is usually less severe than inflammatory acne and can often be treated with over-the-counter products.

It is important to note that some people may have a combination of both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne. This can make treatment more challenging, as different types of acne may require different treatments. In these cases, it is important to seek the advice of a dermatologist or skincare professional.