Types of Acne: How to Tell Them Apart and Choose the Right Care

Breakouts are the result of a combination of changes inside the hair follicles and oil glands of the skin.

The most important factors include:

• Excess oil production.
• Clogged pores.
• Inflammation.
• Hormonal changes.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads form when a pore becomes clogged and stays closed at the top, creating small skin-colored or white bumps.

Ingredients that may help:
Salicylic Acid, Retinoids.

Blackheads

Blackheads form when a pore is clogged but stays open at the top. The dark color does not mean your skin is dirty; it happens when oil reacts with the air.

Helpful ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Retinoids.

Papules

Small, raised, red bumps caused by inflammation around the pores.

Ingredients that may help:
Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid, Salicylic Acid.

Pustules

Inflamed bumps that contain pus. Avoid squeezing them to reduce the chance of marks or scars.

Ingredients that may help:
Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid.

Nodules and Cystic Acne

These types sit deeper in the skin, are more painful, and are more likely to leave scars. They need extra attention, and you should consult a dermatologist if they keep coming back.

Fungal Acne

This type is different from traditional acne. It is caused by an overgrowth of a type of yeast inside the hair follicles.

It may appear as small, clustered bumps that itch, and it may not respond to traditional acne treatments.

Identifying the right cause matters before choosing your routine.

Acne is the active problem, while acne marks are what may remain after breakouts heal, such as pigmentation and dark spots.

Ingredients that may help:
Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid, Vitamin C, along with daily sunscreen.

• Salicylic Acid: Helps clear pores and reduce the buildup of oil and dead skin cells.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: Often used for inflamed breakouts.
• Retinoids: Help regulate skin cell turnover and reduce clogged pores.
• Niacinamide: Supports the skin barrier and calms the skin.
• Azelaic Acid: Used to care for acne-prone skin and acne marks.

Important note:
Using several strong ingredients at the same time may irritate your skin, so it is best to introduce new products gradually.

• Squeezing pimples.
• Using overly harsh products.
• Over-exfoliating.
• Constantly switching products.
• Skipping moisturizer.
• Not using sunscreen.

No. The right choice depends on the type of breakouts, your skin type, the level of inflammation, whether there are marks or pigmentation, and how sensitive your skin is to certain ingredients.

• Deep or painful breakouts.
• Scarring.
• Widespread breakouts.
• No improvement.
• Suspected fungal acne.

Is oily skin the only cause of breakouts?
No, there are multiple factors such as hormones, clogged pores, and inflammation.

Should I squeeze my pimples?
No, squeezing can increase inflammation and the chance of leaving marks.

Do I need a moisturizer if I have breakouts?
Yes, the right hydration helps maintain the skin barrier.